Experience the unforgettable autumn colours of Lapland!

The autumn colours are nature’s way of preparing for the winter. Decreasing daylight and colder weather are signs for deciduous trees to stop growing, and an interesting process turns leaves into spectacular yellows and oranges. 

First, the autumn colours reach ground level and, approximately a week later, they reach also deciduous trees. The best places to admire the autumn colours in Ruka-Kuusamo are high places, such as the fells Ruka, Valtavaara, Pyhävaara and Riisitunturi. You can see far from the high ground and take in the fabulous colours in full.

River banks and lake shores are also beautiful sights in their full autumn splendour, making the shores of River Oulankajoki and Kitkajoki or Lake Kuusamojärvi great day trip destinations.

When are the autumn colours at their best?

Autumn colours take over nature every year, and it's always as great an experience as it is a surprise. According to local tradition, autumn colours take over Kuusamo on 12 September at approximately 14:00. However, you can come and enjoy the colours throughout September.

Fantastic experiences in nature

The main stage for the autumn colours is of course the stunning nature of Ruka-Kuusamo, but we also have many fun activities and interesting events available. The summer weekly programme is valid until 30.9.

Book now: 

 

Events and things to do during autumn colors

Oulankajoki syksyllä ruskan aikaan. Kuva Mikko Santasalo
Maaruskaa Kuusamossa. Kuva Eeva Mäkinen

Autumn Colors in Ruka-Kuusamo 2026

1.9.2026 - 30.9.2026
Autumn colours arrive every year, always as spectacular as ever and always with a touch of mystery when it comes to timing. Local folklore says that the peak autumn colours reach Kuusamo around 12 September at 2 pm, but a foliage adventure can be enjoyed at any time throughout September.
Zonessa tanssitaan torstaisin klo 18-21
Zonessa tanssitaan torstaisin klo 18-21

Autumn Dancing Thursdays @Zone

3.9.2026 - 24.9.2026
18:00 - 21:00
From 0.00€
Thursday evenings are filled with evergreen schlagers, newer classics, and dance music at Restaurant Zone. Jape keeps the atmosphere high with singing and karaoke. You can take a spin on the dance floor, grab the mic, or sit back and enjoy good music and pleasant company.
Rukan Karaokekarnevaalit
Rukan Karaokekarnevaalit

Ruka Karaoke Carnival 2026

25.9.2026 - 27.9.2026
From 95.00€
The closing of autumn, ruska, party at Restaurant Zone, Restaurant Piste and Bar Ihku. Ruka Open Karaoke Championships and great artists!
Riistapeijaiset-tapahtuman logo Ravintola Zonessa Rukalla. Logossa näkyy teeri, kokkishow, pikkelöintipaja, satokauden vihanneksia, sieniä ja marjoja. Tapahtuma juhlistaa suomalaista villiruokaa, riistaa ja syksyn makuja.
Riistapeijaiset-tapahtuman logo Ravintola Zonessa Rukalla. Logossa näkyy teeri, kokkishow, pikkelöintipaja, satokauden vihanneksia, sieniä ja marjoja. Tapahtuma juhlistaa suomalaista villiruokaa, riistaa ja syksyn makuja.

Riistapeijaiset @Zone

2.10.2026 - 4.10.2026
18:00 - 04:00
Riistapeijaiset invites wild food enthusiasts to Restaurant Zone to savour the best flavours of autumn, enjoy inspiring cooking demonstrations, take part in interactive workshops, and discover the culinary heritage of Northern Finland.