Going on a bike holiday in winter? And then to Levi, Finland?! You heard right, this is not a crazy idea, but a unique experience on two wheels. Our team from ALLEGRA Nordics works together with Timo of specially prepared winter trails that lead all cycling enthusiasts through snowy landscapes. But how do you build these trails and what challenges do they present?
BUILDING WINTER TRAILS – THIS IS HOW IT WORKS!
The creation of a winter trail begins - like any trail - with thorough planning. The route, curve radii and gradients are defined in summer and autumn. Existing summer trails serve as a basis. In winter, implementation follows with a specially developed technique using the Skidoo and a tailor-made plow:
1. Create a foundation – We drive the route with the Skidoo to form the base.
2. Modelling with the plow – We shape the snow masses and compact them.
3. Fine-tuning – In steep or narrow areas we have to rework the trail several times to achieve an even and safe surface.
The design of curves and berms in particular requires precision. Targeted weight shifting and adjusted speed create trails that offer both safe and dynamic driving characteristics.
THE SPECIAL CHALLENGES OF WINTER TRAILS
The nature of the snow varies depending on the temperature, moisture content and degree of compaction. Each type of snow – from dry powder snow to hard-packed or wet snow – requires an adapted technique:
- Powder snow: Several passes with the Skidoo are required to create a stable base.
- Wet snow: Compaction occurs more quickly, but the surface structure must be adjusted regularly to optimize grip.
- Icy snow: A smooth surface can only be achieved by controlled speed and
adjusted weight distribution of the Skidoo can be achieved.
THE RESULT: PERFECT CONDITIONS AND UNIQUE TRAILS
The winter trails in Finland transform snowy landscapes into a playground for mountain bikers. A grippy, compact snow cover, precisely modeled curves and a flowing route design create optimal conditions - whether for first attempts on snow or for fast, dynamic rides. Every meter of the trails is designed to offer an incomparable riding experience.
Biking in winter? In Finland it becomes a real adventure! Anyone who ventures out onto the trails will experience the perfect combination of technique, nature and flow - a unique feeling that makes every ride special.
Do you find the topic exciting and want to find out more? Or would you prefer to implement your ideas directly? Then contact our expert for international trail construction Claude or at Mikko from ALLGERA Nordics.
