Aurora Adventure 2026 Finland

In mid-February 2026, 65 Degrees North successfully delivered "Aurora Adventure", taking a group of eight serving personnel and veterans to the Ylläsjärvi region of Northern Finland.

This one-week cross-country ski touring expedition was based out of the village of Ylläs, located deep inside the Arctic Circle at 67.56 degrees north, even further north than the charity’s name suggests. The setting provided a truly remote and immersive Arctic environment in which to challenge, support, and inspire the group.

Ylläs is renowned for its exceptional snow reliability and extensive network of over 320 kilometres of prepared trails, winding through deep forests and across exposed fells.

Over the course of the week, participants progressed from foundational cross-country ski instruction and winter survival skills to long ski touring days, including extended routes across open terrain. The programme also included a memorable night ski, adding a further layer of challenge and atmosphere to the experience.

In addition to skiing, the expedition offered a variety of enriching activities. The group had the privilege of meeting with the Finnish Veterans’ Association, providing a powerful opportunity for shared understanding and international connection.

Another highlight towards the end of the week was dog sledding, near Äkäslompolo, where every participant experienced both driving and riding the sleds, a joyful and uplifting finale after a demanding week.

The Arctic environment delivered both challenge and reward. Temperatures dropped as low as –33°C at times, reinforcing the need for discipline, teamwork and strong duty of care. These extreme conditions were offset by clear skies, stunning winter landscapes, and multiple appearances of the Northern Lights, providing unforgettable moments of reflection and wonder.

This was a physically and mentally committing expedition, requiring resilience, adaptability and mutual support. Throughout the week, the group demonstrated outstanding participation, enthusiasm and camaraderie, consistently looking out for one another and embodying the values that underpin 65 Degrees North expeditions.

The expedition was supported by a small, experienced team with medical and extreme cold weather expertise, ensuring safety while enabling participants to stretch their capabilities in a controlled and purposeful way.

As a self-funding organisation, 65 Degrees North relies on the generosity of partners, supporters, and friends to deliver these life-changing opportunities. We are incredibly grateful to our long-standing relationship with Jöttnar, whose high-performance cold-weather clothing played a vital role throughout the expedition. Their insulated jackets and technical systems enabled the group to operate confidently in extreme temperatures, retaining warmth and focus in some of the harshest conditions encountered.

Aurora Adventure was a resounding success, combining physical challenge, shared experience and moments of genuine connection in a remarkable Arctic setting. It was a privilege to support the group on their journey, and we hope the experience has made a lasting positive impact as they continue their individual paths forward.