Saturday, January 15, 2011

Kuhankuono Ski Route

I originally planned to do an overnighter on skis this weekend, but the weather forecast changed to less inspiring weather. I made other plans for Friday night, but the weather forecast once again changed and promised clear and cold weather. I decided to try out the Kuhankuono ski route on Saturday morning. The weather was nice and crisp, -20°C (-4°F), when I got out of the car after driving for 35 minutes. It was still very dark in the forest when I started at 8.00 in the morning.

Getting lighter. It was likely a few degrees colder on the bog, and it took some time for the body to wake up and start to generate some heat.








Some sections are made on forest roads. Not too inspiring, but the other sections make it worthwhile.


The sun is starting to light up the tree tops.


Lakjärvi.




Sunrise was at 9:35, but it took another 30 minutes before the sun got up over the trees.


Forest trail used for hiking and mtb riding in the summer.


Open space again.




More forest skiing.


Coffee break. Weather this nice should be enjoyed without hurry. I felt so warm that I left the down jacket in the bag, which of course meant that the first 10 minutes after the break were very cold.




The sun climbs this high at this time of the year. We've already gained 53 minutes of daylight since the winter solstice.




The rays of the sun can be felt clearly, but it still probably only warms the mind.


When I got back to the car, the temperature was -17°C (1°F). I skied about 20 km.

A slideshow with more pictures.

Hopefully we get the same weather next weekend. If so, I think I will go on an overnighter in this same area to enjoy the full moon.