The skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing season has officially kicked off in Finland, with Ruka and Levi launching their first slopes at precisely 9:30 a.m. on Friday.
Both resorts welcomed winter enthusiasts as Levi unveiled a two-kilometer trail for cross-country skiing, taking advantage of the snow preserved from last spring. This early opening was made possible by the Finnish company Snow Secure, ensuring ideal conditions on the slopes.
“We retained an unprecedented amount of snow last spring, and the ‘Eturinne’ at the center, which opened on Friday, is a spectacular 100 meters wide at its best,” noted Jouni Palosaari, CEO of Levi Ski Resort Ltd.
A wave of eager skiers descended on the slopes of Kittilä’s Levi right from the morning’s first light. The season’s “official” opening was marked by alpine skiing star Elian Lehto, who added a touch of glitz to the occasion.
On the very first day, spectators delighted in the presence of Jasmi Joensuu, last season’s sprint skiing world champion, alongside veteran skier Riitta-Liisa Roponen, both gracing the Ensilume track.
### A Significant Investment
Underpinning the excitement, Levi has poured three million euros into slope enhancement and snowmaking capabilities.
“Our biggest innovation this winter is the redesigned Etelärinne,” Palosaari explained. “Slopes 8.2 and 8.3 have been tailored for families and sun seekers, featuring an expansive 80-meter width. The area is outfitted with new LED lights and an advanced snowmaking system, which is bound to enhance customer experience.”
Palosaari further emphasized that the southern slopes have previously been congested but noted, “Those concerns are now a thing of the past. These slopes are our easiest and safest, located on the sunny side.”
### Stars in the Fells
November will see Levi transformed into a premier alpine racing venue, hosting the Alpine Skiing World Cup. From November 14 to 16, top athletes will compete in slalom events for World Cup points, marking the season’s official launch for both men and women.
“The return of the men’s race to Levi last November added a vibrant touch to the event. The World Cup is significant for us in various ways,” Palosaari shared.
As the winter unfolds, Levi promises skiing until Mother’s Day, with Palosaari remarking, “Our ski season is extending to an impressive seven months this year.” As the slopes beckon, the excitement for another thrilling winter sports season is palpable.