Arctic Lines Episode 10: The Hidden Spine - Discovering exciting line in Swedish Lapland

Here we go. New season of Arctic Lines is here!
From countless of hours planning, producing and searching for the locations. I couldn't be more excited to kick off yet another winter here in the Arctic while trying to complete the list of adventures I’ve set for myself and the crew!

THE HIDDEN SPINE

New season of Arctic Lines starts! This is episode 10 of the project. The Hidden Spine is all about exploring Vassicohkka mountain in Swedish Lapland while searching for the most exciting line of the project so far. In Freeriding exploration is one of the biggest parts of the sport and that is also one of the key themes of Arctic Lines. You have to be willing to work through the process of ever-changing snow conditions and weather to find the adventure that is hidden deep in the mountains.

In this mission, I’m joined by Haglöfs outsider, freeskier Tom-Oliver Hedwall and mountain guide Anders Bergwall from Arctic Guides.

Enjoy!

ABOUT HIDDEN SPINE

The line is located near the south summit of Vassicohkka massif.

Vassi is one of the most famous touring mountains in Swedish Lapland. it’s very close to Riksgränsen ski area and holds great variation in terrain.

Start your approach from Vassijaure railway station.
Go under the tunnel and follow the most obvious route towards the valley.

It will take about 2 hours to reach the point where you can see the line. At this point it's good to look surroundings and think about dangers. Take your time here. Make a plan. The biggest avalanche problem can be in the less technical area of the line and not where the most techical skills is needed.

Start moving up the slope all the way until you can't tour anymore. Make a switch for climbing. It's important to have crampons and at least one ice ax. The wall will be icy in some spots so exposing yourself for the route you want to come down is a good idea. This way you know how the snow is all the way.

Once at the top, change to riding mode under a huge and most likely icy rockwall.

Descent same way you came up. It's very steep in the beginning but mellows out in the midway. Ride all the way to the lake at the bottom. This is a special line that requires special conditions, special commitment.

Attempting this line means taking a risk which needs to be well planned ahead and can only be done in stable conditions with a crew who know how to perfrom all the tasks needed for the safe outcome.