Internationale groepsreis Snowshoeing in Finland

Our trip starts at Basecamp Oulanka, a complex of cozy wooden buldings located in a remote, unspoiled location overlooking the Juuma lake and backing into Oulanka National Park.

In the morning we are provided with all of the equipment needed for a week of snowshoeing in arctic conditions, before heading straight out onto the frozen Juuma Lake for an easy walk as an introduction to snowshoeing. Our route will lead us through snow-caked trees and along the river Kitka, 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 with the sauna or hot-tub. This evening we head out for nighttime snowshoeing, in search for the Northern Lights.

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 have the real snow showing experience in an atmosphere of total silence. This brings us to Pyöreälampi where we will stop for a snack. After the rest we walk across the secluded area to Linnakallio Castle Rocks, a beautiful wall of rock standing isolated on the banks of the river. Then we will be passing by Jyrävä, the biggest waterfall of the national park and the Aallokko rapids. Along the path you can also admire beautiful lichens hanging from the trees when we snowshoe across the powder snow. On our return to Basecamp we cross a second suspension bridge over the Myllykoski rapids.

We transfer to the neighbouring Riisitunturi National Park. Although geographically they are not far apart, the differences between the two national parks are highly noticeable. What makes this area so special is the incredible effect that the heavy snow has on the trees as you climb higher into the clearings of the fjell. Twisted, bent and covered in thick white powder, it is almost as if you are passing by 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.

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, it is advisable to check at reception before making your activities booking.  Downhill skiing and snowmobile safaris are available. See the 'Optional excursions' section below. Please note that due to operational reasons, the bookings for activities in Ruka need to be made by Tuesday.

Today is the longest day of snowshoeing as we head deep into Oulanka National Park. Our guide takes us on what is known in the area as the 'Little Bear Trail', which encompasses some of the most spectacular scenery in the park. The trail takes us to the south side of the River Kitka and then up to the Kallioportti viewpoint, where we survey the vast snow-covered surroundings. On the return to Basecamp we head over another suspension bridge in Harrisuvanto before taking a well-earned rest in the sauna or the outdoor hot tub. 

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 un-guided snowshoeing and dogsledding. As a farewell celebration, we have the option of eating dinner around a campfire on the edge of the National Park.

Trip ends at Basecamp Oulanka. Those on the group flight transfer to Kuusamo and fly to London.