Published 4.6.2024
Ruka Ski Resort will begin constructing a new attraction – an alpine coaster – in the summer of 2024. This alpine coaster from the top of the fell will be the first of its kind in Finland. In addition, gravity-powered motorless mountain carts will be introduced, allowing visitors to race down from the heights. These investments align with our strategy to enhance year-round operations.
Summer at Ruka is bustling with activities. Summer tourism in this winter paradise is on the rise, and the new alpine coaster, a first in Finland, will add even more appeal to the region.
“We strongly believe in the growth of year-round tourism at Ruka and want to develop the area by investing in new experiences never seen before in Finland,” says Antti Kärävä, CEO of Ruka Ski Resort.
The alpine coaster promises to be a major draw for visitors of all ages, operating year-round, even in winter. The ride begins near the summit and spans 767 meters, ending near the lifts' base station. A mechanism transports the sleds up the track, carrying the passengers along.
The coaster's construction will commence in the summer of 2024 and be ready for the summer season of 2025. By then, another new attraction will also be available: gravity-powered mountain carts. These carts can be ridden down existing gravel paths.
“With these additions, along with our Bike Park and the original, still-popular summer sledding track, we will have several attractions for visitors of all ages,” Kärävä states.
Unlock summer with Ruka Fun Pass
New for summer 2024 is the Ruka Pass, which grants access to all summer activities at Ruka. With the pass, you can enjoy the 364-meter-long zipline from the mountain top, the summer sledding track, Ruka Bike Park, and mini-golf. Additionally, the pass includes free rental of frisbee golf discs for two courses that wind around the mountain in stunning landscapes. The pass also provides a 20% discount at the Lappis Water Park in the center of Ruka Village.
The Ruka Pass costs 35 euros for children and 49 euros for adults and can be purchased for multiple days, similar to winter lift tickets.
Positive Trends in Summer Demand
The past winter and economic conditions have also impacted northern tourism destinations. However, the Ruka area has held up well, and the outlook for the rest of the year is promising.
“Private accommodation demand at our Ski-Inn locations looks better for the summer than at the same time last year. Additionally, bookings for the next winter season, particularly international demand, seem to be rising compared to last year,” Kärävä notes.
“In December, the new sauna restaurant opening at the summit of Saarua will meet the long-standing customer demand for a great restaurant and panoramic sauna at the fell top. The timing is excellent as demand is increasing,” he continues.
Tourism in the Ruka-Kuusamo area grew faster than the rest of Finland last summer. The past winter was the second most successful in Ruka’s history, with a significant increase in international visitors.
FACT: Ruka – the land of national parks
Ruka is open year-round. The center offers various activities in the summer, including a zipline from the mountain slopes, Finland’s most versatile Bike Park, and the summer sled track. Ruka also boasts a rich and high-quality restaurant selection, offering everything from artisanal pizza, delicious bowl dishes, wok, and juicy burgers to pike patties. The latest addition to the culinary offerings is a Michelin star award from the Kuusamo-based restaurant Tapio.
The area is also close to four national parks: Oulanka, Riisitunturi, Hossa, and Salla. The nearest Oulanka National Park includes the Karhunkierros Trail, one of Finland's most popular hiking routes. The 12-kilometer Pieni Karhunkierros Trail is a more family-friendly option.
New Summer Products at Ruka:
2024: Ruka Pass: All the following activities included
- Zipline
- Summer sled track
- Bike Park
- Mini-golf
- Frisbee golf discs
- 20% discount at Lappis Water Park
- 10% discount on bike rentals (Piste Rental)
2025: Alpine Coaster, 767 meters long, 85 meters of elevation difference
Mountain Carts: Ride up with the lifts, descend with gravity
