Spring excursion to Koivakero fell – small yet well worth visiting

Muonio’s landscape is dominated by fells and forests. Once spring has arrived, the winter snowfall has becomes denser and fluctuating temperatures make the snow more supportive. Snowfall in spring makes it easier to explore Muonio’s magnificent fells and forests than in midwinter. The awakening of nature provides plenty for outdoor enthusiasts to explore, and the longer days allow more time to get out and about.

It’s worth heading for the slopes on skis or snowshoes, and if you are very lucky, the snowfields may even support a cyclist in late spring. Such dense snow allows you to explore places that you might never get to seen when the snow is soft. Now we would like to present Koivakero fell to you, an attraction that many people are likely to miss at this time of year.

Often overshadowed by Keimiötunturi fell, its larger neighbour, Koivakero is still worth a visit. From the top of Koivakero, you can enjoy a magnificent view northwards to the Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park.

As well as the Pallas fells, you can also see the neighbouring Keimiötunturi, while not forgetting Sammaltunturi and Lommoltunturi with its Lower fell and Hevoslaki fell.

FACTS: Koivakero

Altitude: 490 masl

Facilities:

Mustakero refuge cabin

Keimiöjärvi refuge and rental cabins

Mustavaara wilderness hut

Distances:

29 km from Muonio to Rauhala car park, and 27 km to Keimiöjärvi car park.

45 km from Kittilä airport to Rauhala car park, and 49 km to Keimiöjärvi car park.

75 km from Kolari station to Rauhala car park, and 79 km to Keimiöjärvi car park

The mountain landscape is complemented by the National Park’s beautiful natural forest. Lake Keimiöjärvi, standing in the middle of it, is embraced on all sides by the surrounding fells.

Where to start and where to go?

Good starting points are Rauhala village and the parking lot at Lake Keimiöjärvi. You may also leave your car in Rauhala at the car park by the junction of Muoniontie and Jerisjärventie. There is also another good car park at Keimiöjärvi.

From Rauhala you can approach Koivakero along the summer trail or ski via Anuntivuoma, which is a marshy area south of Koivakero. The marsh is crisscrossed by small streams, so bear that in mind when planning your route. The terrain south of the pond is steep, so people approaching from Rauhala are advised to climb to the top from the east side. The summer route trail also runs along the eastern side.

Starting from Keimiöjärvi car park, you can either ski towards Koivakero along the trail, or ski straight to Lake Koivakero.

When approaching Kero, you will have to cross the Keimiöoja stream, but you will surely find the snow bridge to cross to the other side. If you want to be on the safe side, ski as far as Lake Keimiöjärvi and begin your ascent towards Koivakero from there.

On the western approach, you can climb up the side of Koivakero along a pleasant gorge-like formation almost to the top. If you still have enough energy, it’s worth taking a look to see what the rocky crags on the other side look like, or if you can find any at all under the snow!

Koivakero fell has two peaks. The smaller peak provides more shelter from the wind, but the views are better from Koivakero’s higher peak. Koivakero is not completely treeless, but the stunted fell trees won’t block your view at all.

If you want to make an overnight trip to Koivakero, you’ll find the Keimiöjärvi refuge and rental cabins and the Mustavaara wilderness hut nearby. For a day trip, the Keimiöjärvi wilderness hut makes an excellent stopover and picnic site.

Spending the day somewhere like Koivakero in the bright spring sunshine is a unique experience!

MINNE MENNÄ?