Lapland, Finland’s northernmost region, is world-famous for its enchanting winter wonders. From the mesmerizing Northern Lights to the iconic Santa Claus Village, it’s a dream destination for travelers seeking a true Arctic experience. But beyond these well-known attractions lies a quieter, wilder side of Lapland waiting to be explored: its breathtaking winter hiking trails.
With vast expanses of snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, and pristine wilderness, Lapland offers endless opportunities for those seeking solitude and adventure. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a nature enthusiast looking to embrace the Arctic landscape, winter hiking in Lapland is an unforgettable way to connect with Finland’s untamed beauty.
In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the best winter hikes in Lapland’s stunning national parks, including Korouoma, known for its frozen canyon and dramatic ice formations; Oulanka, a hiker’s paradise with its rugged trails and scenic rivers; and Riisitunturi, famous for its snow-laden trees and panoramic views. We’ll also highlight a shorter summit hike in Levi, a popular tourist hub and the host of the 2024 Ski World Championships.
Winter hiking in Lapland video
Korouoma National Park
Located conveniently between Rovaniemi and Ruka, Korouoma is a winter paradise known for its dramatic canyon, frozen waterfalls, and stunning ice formations. The park offers a variety of trails through snow-covered forests and along icy cliffs, perfect for hiking or snowshoeing.
Korouoma Canyon trail
The first hike on our list is the Korouoma Canyon Trail, a scenic 5-kilometer loop that takes you through stunning natural landscapes. The trail begins conveniently next to a parking area. We recommend hiking the loop clockwise, as this direction offers the best views of the dramatic canyon and frozen waterfalls as you descend. The true highlight of this trail is the breathtaking frozen waterfalls, where towering ice formations create a magical, otherworldly atmosphere. You might spot ice climbers scaling the icy walls.
After completing the hike, take a moment to relax and warm up at one of the public fireplaces near the trailhead. Here, you can grill sausages over an open fire, just as the locals do. Before you leave, don’t miss the charming café at the entrance. With its cozy atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a hot drink and a slice of homemade cake.
Oulanka National Park
Located in northeastern Finland near the Russian border, Oulanka is a breathtaking destination known for its rugged landscapes, crystal-clear rivers, and lush forests. Famous for the Karhunkierros Trail (The Bear’s Trail), the park offers a mix of dramatic gorges, tranquil waterfalls, and scenic wooden bridges.
Pieni Karhunkierros trail
The Karhunkierros Trail, also known as "The Bear’s Trek," is one of Finland’s most famous multi-day hikes, stretching 82 kilometers through the stunning landscapes of Oulanka National Park. But for those seeking a shorter winter adventure, there’s a compact version of this iconic trail that still captures its magic.
This shorter route takes you along the banks of a rushing river, whose strong currents prevent it from fully freezing, creating a mesmerizing contrast between the flowing water and the snow-covered surroundings. Along the way, you’ll cross a picturesque suspension bridge that offers stunning views of the river below. The trail also passes by an old mill building, a charming reminder of the region’s history.
As you gain a bit of elevation, you’ll reach a scenic viewpoint that overlooks the river and its icy landscapes—a perfect spot to pause and take in the beauty of Lapland in winter. Along the trail, you’ll find wooden huts and public fireplaces where you can warm up and recharge before continuing your journey.
Riisitunturi National Park
Riisitunturi is a winter fairy tale come to life. In winter, Riisitunturi National Park is famous for its snow-laden trees, which are completely blanketed in thick layers of snow, creating whimsical and otherworldly shapes.
Riisin rääpäsy trail
This easy and enchanting hike takes you on a small loop through what feels like a fairy-tale forest. As you wander through this magical landscape, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a storybook scene, with every twist and turn of the trail offering new, breathtaking views.
The trail is perfect for hikers of all levels, offering a peaceful and immersive experience in one of Lapland’s most picturesque winter wonderlands.
Levi region
Levi, a bustling ski resort located just 2 hours north of Rovaniemi, is one of Finland’s top winter destinations. Known for hosting the 2024 Ski World Championships, Levi offers a wide range of activities, from skiing to snowboarding and beyond. But beyond the slopes, the area is also a hiker’s paradise, with trails for all skill levels. Among these is the Levi Peak Trail, a rewarding hike that combines stunning panoramic views with a taste of Lapland’s rugged Arctic beauty.
Kätkätunturi hike
This hike takes you to the summit of Levi, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the famous Levi Ski Resort and the vast, flat Arctic landscapes stretching out in every direction. The trail is not only a treat for the eyes but also an educational experience, as it serves as a mating route for local wildlife. Along the way, you’ll find informative boards detailing the animals that inhabit the area, adding a fun and interactive element to your hike.
While the trail is relatively short, it can be challenging in parts, especially in winter when deep snow and icy conditions are common. Proper preparation is key—make sure to wear sturdy boots, bring trekking poles, and dress in layers to stay warm and safe.
On your way back, make a little detour to Riihi, a cozy café that comes highly recommended. With its warm atmosphere and unique décor featuring authentic hunting objects, it’s the perfect place to relax, enjoy a hot drink and some local crepes.
How to Prepare for a Winter Hike in Finland
Hiking in Finland during winter requires careful preparation, as temperatures can drop to extreme lows—on our hikes, we experienced temperatures ranging from -20°C to -28°C. To stay safe and comfortable, it’s essential to have the right gear and pack extra layers. For example, we wore ski gear with two layers on the lower body and three layers on the upper body to stay warm. Snowshoes are also highly recommended, especially for trails with deep snow, as they provide better stability and make walking easier.
One of the best tips for surviving cold-weather hikes in Finland is to take advantage of "Kotas"—public shelters or huts often equipped with fireplaces and firewood. These cozy spots are perfect for taking a break, warming up, and refueling. We recommend bringing a thermos of hot drinks and some sausages to grill over the fire. Not only does this keep you energized, but it also adds a fun, local touch to your adventure.
Embracing these Finnish traditions is the secret to enjoying the country’s stunning winter landscapes, even in the coldest conditions. With the right preparation and a spirit of adventure, you’ll be ready to explore Lapland’s magical trails like a true local.
