What do you want to know about the Fell Challenge?
Yes, absolutely. The Fell Challenge is tailored for those interested in hiking and doesn’t require prior experience. However, experience with day hikes carrying a heavier backpack is helpful.
A moderate level of fitness is recommended. While daily distances aren’t necessarily long, the varied terrain with elevation changes can be challenging. A heavy pack also increases physical demands over the course of several days.
The Fell Challenge preparation begins with assessing what gear you already have and identifying what you may need to purchase or rent. Not everything needs to be owned personally—some items can be rented or shared with a companion. Before the hike, it’s a good idea to practice carrying a backpack by going on a few day hikes with either a heavier bag or the backpack you plan to use for the challenge. This helps you get used to the weight and adjust the pack properly ahead of time.
Each participant is responsible for bringing and carrying their own food for the duration of the hike. However, the guides might surprise participants with special treats. At the end of the event, participants celebrate with complimentary pizza.
A typical day unfolds as follows:
- Morning: Wake up at a set time, have breakfast, and pack your gear.
- Daytime: Hike as a group or in smaller teams to the next campsite, stopping for lunch at a scenic spot along the way.
- Evening: Set up camp at the next site, change into dry clothes, and prepare dinner.
- Night: Spend the evening learning outdoor skills, doing body recovery exercises, and enjoying any activities organized by the guides.
Early summer weather is often ideal for hiking. Days are warm but not too hot, while nights can be cold, sometimes dropping below freezing. Most of the terrain is dry by this time, though some wet areas may remain where snow lingers longer.
Participants sleep in their own tents or other shelters. Campsites are located near huts or fire pits, providing access to basic amenities like outdoor toilets.
The event is open to anyone interested in hiking. It’s designed to be beginner-friendly for those looking to learn more about trekking or who may hesitate to hike alone. Children can join if they’re accustomed to covering long distances outdoors and can carry their own gear. The youngest participants have been around 10–12 years old.
The Fell Challenge is a guided event led by a head guide, with 1–2 assistant guides depending on group size. Participants can arrange with the guide to hike independently between two campsites if they wish. Guides ensure every participant arrives safely at the campsite each evening.
Guides are trained in first aid and can provide immediate assistance. If necessary, emergency services will be contacted for evacuation. In areas without mobile coverage, guides use satellite phones to call for help.
Hiking the Fell Challenge with friends is a great experience. Participation with family is possible if children are old enough and capable of keeping up with the group.
There are no opportunities to purchase food during the hike. Before setting off, last-minute supplies can be picked up at the Kiilopää minimarket or shops in Saariselkä, about 16 km from Kiilopää. Water is available from streams along the way, but it’s recommended to use a filter or purification tablets.
- Shelter, which can be shared with a companion.
- Sleeping bag and pad.
- Camping stove, which can also be shared.
- Fire-making tools and a knife.
- Water bottles and eating utensils.
- First aid supplies.
- Food for the entire hike, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and an extra day’s supply.
- Clothing, including waterproof layers. Typically, you hike in one outfit during the day and change into dry clothes for the evening.