History of skiing in Koli
Koli is one of the oldest and most famous ski areas in Finland. Koli has been a popular destination for outdoors enthusiasts ever since the early 20th century when travelers started visiting Koli for its unique landscape and nature. The first ski hills were constructed in the 1930's after which they quickly gained popularity.
OVER 80 YEARS OF SKIING HISTORY
Downhill skiing in Koli began as early as before World War II. In February 1937 a slalom course fulfilling national standards was constructed. The next autumn a downhill course was beginning its construction and in the spring of 1938 a national alpine skiing competition was organised. This event assembled together some of the best skiers in the country.
The competitors described the slope to be of very high quality, if not the best in Finland. The downhill course of the era had a 211 metre height difference and was about 1100 metres in total lenght. At the time alpine skiing was considered an extreme sport and the skiers themselves were viewed as daredevils of sort with their very rudimentary equipment including wooden skis and woollen uniforms.
THE STYLE OF SKIING HAS ITS ROOTS IN KOLI
In the early years skiing was physically demanding due to the lack of ski lifts. And so, the first ski lift in Koli was built in 1952. The area saw frequent use ever since the beginning and even newcomers got to learn the secrets of the sport when visiting. National championship competitions have been organized at least in 1949, 1953 and 1964. Even though Koli is one of the oldest ski resorts in Finland its roots in tourism go even further back into the late 19th century. Various Finnish artists of different fields came visit the Koli area in the late 1800's and in the early 1900's. Koli's major influence can be seen in their works.
ONE OF THE UTMOST SKI DESTINATIONS IN THE COUNTRY
Today Koli Ski consists of seven slopes with varying difficulty levels. The longest run is 1500 metres in lenght with an elevation difference of 230 metres. Our steepest slope, the aptly named "Ukko-Koli" has a staggering incline percentage of 62,7%. The wide selection of runs also allow for beginners and children to start easy. The beautiful sceneries and the close proximity of the national park make Koli unique. Koli Ski is not just another ski resort, it's a place where one can enjoy the quiet nature and its cultural history
Pictures' credit: Kolin Matkailu
1937
February: first slalom course constructed by national standards
1952
First ski lift constructed
1940-1960 -luku
National championships of alpine skiing organized in 1949, 1953 and 1964
Gallery
