Paloheinä
Paloheinä is a classic cross-country ski centre that offers a wide range of trails that are suitable for skiers of all levels. Distances range from 1.8 kilometres to 7.5 kilometres, and the longest trails are also the most demanding. In addition to the forest trails, there is a 10-kilometre trail that crosses the fields. Paloheinä is one of the most popular cross-country ski centres in the region, so its groomed trails are always kept in great condition.
Starting point: Suomen Latu Paloheinä, Pakilantie 124
Tali
Tali is a popular recreational area in Helsinki. In wintertime 6.5 kilometres of cross-country skiing trails cover the golf course, where you can enjoy the expansive scenery. Especially in the bright spring sunshine, skiing across the fairways is a truly invigorating experience. The trails are quite flat for the most part, making them suitable for beginners, but there are also trails that climb up a hill if you are looking for more of a challenge.
Starting point: Talin Puistotie
Herttoniemi Sports Park
The most popular cross-country ski centre in East Helsinki can be found in Herttoniemi. In wintertime the local sports park has a network of trails that are 1, 2, 3 and 5 kilometres in distance. Some of the trails go through the forest, and there are some nice hills, so you can get a really great winter workout while enjoying the nature. From Herttoniemi you can also ski along a connecting trail (classic technique only) all the way to the Old Town Bay (Vanhankaupunginlahti).
Starting point: Siilitie
Pirkkola Sports Park
Pirkkola Sports Park is an ideal place to head out onto the trails in Central Park (Keskuspuisto). Covering a total area of 66 hectares of forests, the sports park offers 3- and 5.5-kilometre trails. When snow conditions allow, you can ski along connecting trails all the way to Paloheinä, Tali and Laakso. You can access the trail from the Maunula Recreational Hut, which is also popular for its delicious donuts.
Starting point: Maunula Recreational Hut, Pirkkolan Metsätie 6 (outside swimming centre)
Malmi Airport and Kivikko
A 5.7-kilometre trail circles Malmi Airport, and in Kivikko there is a 3.75-kilometre trail. Both trails can be skied in traditional or skating techniques. Best of all, if it’s a bad winter or the snow conditions are just bad, you can ski indoors at the Kivikko Ski Hall. The indoor ski track is around 1000 metres long and the conditions are always perfect!
Starting point: Tattariharjunkuja (Malmi Airport) ja Savikiekontie (Kivikko)
Trail conditions and maps: Ulkoliikunta.fi