Taivalvaara Ski Resort – Small, Friendly and Growing with Care

Taivalvaara is a surprisingly versatile ski resort in snowy Taivalkoski. In addition to well-groomed slopes and a fun park, it features a mogul course built to European Cup standards – and famous cross-country trails.

Taivalvaara Ski Resort in Taivalkoski is a small but lively destination that serves both locals and visitors. Run by Carita Shemeikka and Miro Haataja, a young entrepreneurial duo, the resort has found a new rhythm built on energy, collaboration, and steady development.

Located in a small northern town of fewer than 4,000 residents — and almost as many reindeer — Taivalvaara plays a vital role in keeping the local community active and connected throughout the winter. Many young locals come here not only to ski but to hang out and spend time together after school or on weekends.

“We immediately felt the younger crowd coming in,” says Miro.

“Not everyone comes to ski – some just hang out, and that’s great. On weekends, the slopes fill up with families, and it really shows how important this place is for the area.”

To encourage kids to discover skiing, Taivalvaara offers a free season pass for local first-graders – a gesture that perfectly reflects the resort’s family-oriented spirit.

Building the Basics Right

Before taking over Taivalvaara, Miro worked in the ski and bike park industry, including managing Rusko Bike Park near Oulu. Still, this hill holds a personal connection – it’s where he grew up skiing and competing in moguls.

“When the municipality announced an open search for a new operator, we felt it was a great opportunity. It’s amazing to develop a place that’s so familiar – and has so much potential,” Miro says.

The focus now is on steady, sustainable development – improving step by step.

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“We want to strengthen Taivalvaara’s name as a family-friendly ski area. Earlier, the municipality handled snowmaking and slope maintenance, but now we do everything ourselves – and it shows in the park and slope quality.”

Investing in Safety and Ski Education

While Miro talks about a modest pace, the improvements are significant for a resort of this size. A new snow groomer and updated terrain park features were recently added.

“We don’t aim for big changes all at once, but we’re constantly improving the essentials and working closely with local sports clubs,” Miro explains.

Safety and learning are key priorities. Last winter, the resort’s ski school was relaunched, and the popular Werneri courses – designed to introduce children to skiing safely – will return again this season.

Carrying On the Local Skiing Tradition

Taivalvaara has deep roots in Finnish winter sports. It has hosted Finnish Championship events in cross-country skiing, and its HS80 ski jump now meets international FIS standards. The resort works closely with the local ski club to keep these traditions alive.

“It’s important to inspire the next generation,” says Miro. “We’re planning to use stored snow so we can open the cross-country trails as early as October.”

Even the mogul slope has been shaped to meet European Cup standards, ready for training or future competitions.

Outdoor Joy All Year Round

Above all, Taivalvaara is a place to enjoy the outdoors and the calm beauty of Finnish nature.

“Taivalkoski is a wonderful area – great trails, quiet forests, and the pure air of northern Finland,” Miro says. “There are routes for cyclists, dog walkers, and snowshoers alike. Fat bikers especially love our well-maintained trails with cozy fire pits and shelters along the way.”

Taivalvaara Ski Resort continues to grow steadily, combining the best of Finnish skiing culture – a love for nature, strong community values, and a commitment to sustainable growth.