Ruka-Kuusamo, Finland is known for hosting a prestigious Ruka Nordic World Cup each year in November. On top of the ski world cup, Ruka-Kuusamo is a versatile and scenic destinations for cross-country skiing. Whether you’re a real pro enthusiast skier, a beginner, a family, or an adventurer seeking Arctic thrills, Ruka-Kuusamo offers trails for every skier. Here are seven must-try experiences.
Top cross-country skiing experiences in Finland’s winter wonderland
Ruka-Kuusamo offers great facilities for all cross-country skiers
1. Vuosseli Outdoor Trail, family friendly adventure with arctic animals and characteristic ski cafeterias
Located on the eastern side of Ruka Ski Resort, the 12 km Vuosseli Outdoor Trail is one of the most popular routes in Ruka. Its gentle terrain and stunning winter scenery make it perfect for families. Enjoy cozy ski cafeterias along the way, including Uuttusuon Taukomaja with famous salmon soup, Korpikahvila known for its big “munkki” donuts and free of charge snow playground for families, and Café & Winter Village Lammintupa, where you can have a proper break with Lapland style, meet up with reindeers and do dog sledding or try your skills at ice karting!
From Lammintupa this circuit trail takes you back to Ruka Ski Resort. This ski trail has no steep climbs or descents, and it’s suitable for classic and skating styles. Vuosseli Outdoor Trail serves also as a walking and fat biking trail for winter cyclists. There are different sections for each sport type on this route.
2. Valtavaara ski trail, peak views and snow-covered tykky trees
The 12 km Valtavaara Ski Trail is a demanding route that climbs to the top of Valtavaara hill (492 m), offering breathtaking views and a cozy resting cabin at the summit. Famous snow-covered trees (tykky) decorate the trail, and each tree has its own sculpture in mid-winter. There is an open fireplace at Lappish hut Kota along the way. This circuit trail starts at Saarua village in Ruka Ski Resort.
3. Ruka Ski Stadium FIS ski trail, ski like a world cup pro
Ski where the Nordic Combined FIS World Cup takes place! Experience the thrill of skiing on the same tracks as the world’s best athletes! The 5 km FIS ski trail at Ruka Ski Stadium is challenging, with steep uphills and fast descents. This trail is lit during the mornings and evenings.
4. Kuontivaara ski trail, skiing with your dog
The 19 km Kuontivaara ski trail is an easy route through forests, frozen lakes and swamps of Ruka-Kuusamo. This ski trail is perfect for dog lovers as it allows you to ski with your four-legged friend. There are two ski cafeterias along the way. At Orjasniemi reindeer farm you get to sense the traditional feeling of an old reindeer farm and see these animals in their fence. In the small and characteristic hut, you can sit down and enjoy some Finnish pulla pastries and hot juice – as Finnish skiers do. At the end of the circuit trail there is Rukan Salonki Resort with ice bar and restaurant & cafeteria Kultala.
5. Talvijärvi ski trail – ideal for beginners & experiencing northern lights magic
The 2 km Talvijärvi ski trail runs across the frozen Talvijärvi lake right at the Ruka Ski Resort is an ideal for beginners or those seeking a relaxing skiing under the night sky. With good luck the amazing northern lights can be seen from this beautiful lake. At the shore of lake Talvijärvi there is a perfect combo for wellbeing seekers: end your day with a sauna and ice swimming at Ruka Tonttu Hotel & Restaurant.
6. Kuusamo town circuit – experience local lifestyle and history at Kuusamo town
The 18 km Kuusamo town circuit at Kuusamo town offers a mix of nature and little town lifestyle. Along this ski trail you get to see and visit Kuusamo Church, local shops and explore local history at Culture Center Karhuntassu. After skiing out of the town snow covered woodlands, frozen lakes and landscapes open along the trail. There is an easy access to this ski trail from Holiday Club Kuusamon Tropiikki Spa Resort.
7. Karhunkierros wilderness trail, the ultimate arctic challenge in Oulanka National Park
For seasoned skiers, the 50 km Karhunkierros wilderness trail in Oulanka National Park is an unforgettable journey through pristine wilderness. This trail starts from the Ruka Ski Resort, from where it goes over Valtavaara hill (492 m) famous for its snowcovered tykky trees. From Valtavaara the trail goes down to picturesque village of Virkkula and continues from there to Juuma Village and Oulanka National Park. In Oulanka National Park the trail goes across protected areas home of Finnish wildlife following by Oulanka river. The trail ends at famous Kiutaköngäs rapid at Oulanka Visitor center.
There are two hotels, a manor house hotel House of Northern Senses, and a wilderness hotel Basecamp Oulanka along the way. Also lodges are available to rent and several wilderness huts are found along the trail. The trail is maintained from February to April depending on snow conditions.
Part of this trail (Oulanka Wilderness Ski Trail) is presented in Outdooractive trail service.
More information about the ski trails in Ruka-Kuusamo as well as trail map and maintenance details:
Published: Jan 20, 2026
Text: Tessa Suopanki, Ruka-Kuusamo Tourist Association
Photos: Ruka-Kuusamo Tourist Association