Snowshoeing in Finland

Our trip starts at Basecamp Oulanka, a complex of cosy wooden buildings in a remote location overlooking Juuma Lake and backing into Oulanka National Park (D).

In the morning, we are provided with all the equipment needed for a week of snowshoeing. We then head onto the frozen Juuma Lake for an easy walk to get used to our new form of transport. Our route leads us through snow-caked trees and along the Kitka River, passing an old flour mill by the Myllykoski rapids. The afternoon is free for a self-guided snowshoeing trip or just to relax at Basecamp in the sauna or hot tub (B/L/D).

Today's walk begins over a long suspension bridge that hangs across the Niskakoski rapids. We then head to the pristine frozen lake of Jyravajarvi where we can experience snowshoeing in total silence. This brings us to Pyöreälampi, where we stop for a snack. After the rest, we walk across a secluded area to Linnakallio Castle Rocks, a beautiful wall of rock isolated on the riverbanks. Then we pass Jyrävä, the biggest waterfall in the national park, and the Aallokko rapids. Along the path, you can also admire beautiful lichens hanging from the trees. On our return to Basecamp, we cross a second suspension bridge over the Myllykoski rapids (B/L/D).

We transfer to the neighbouring Riisitunturi National Park. Although geographically they are not far apart, the differences between the two national parks are evident. What makes this area so special is the incredible effect the heavy snow has on the trees as you climb higher into the clearings of the fjell. They're twisted, bent and covered in thick white powder, appearing like hundreds of snow creatures. This memorable walk then culminates in a hike to the top of the fjell for a fantastic view of this wonderful alien landscape (B/L/D).

We spend the day at the popular ski resort of Ruka. Your guide will take care of transfers and can book activities for you. Group transfers are included only to the designated areas and are scheduled at specific times; check at reception before booking your activities. Downhill skiing and snowmobile safaris are available. See Optional Excursions in the Trip Notes for more. Please note, due to operational reasons, bookings for activities in Ruka need to be made by Tuesday (B/D).

Today is the longest day of snowshoeing as we head deep into Oulanka National Park. Our guide takes us along the Little Bear Trail, which encompasses some of the most spectacular scenery in the park. It takes us to the south side of the Kitka River and then up to the Kallioportti viewpoint, where we survey the vast snowy landscape. On return to Basecamp, we head over another suspension bridge in Harrisuvanto before taking a well-earned rest in the sauna or hot tub (B/L/D).

Today we have several options to make the most of the magical Finland wilderness. Some of the activities available are: an introduction to cross-country skiing and unguided snowshoeing and dogsledding. As a farewell celebration, we enjoy a four-course farewell dinner at Basecamp (B/L/D).

The trip ends at Basecamp Oulanka (which may feel a bit like home by now) and we begin our return journey.