In the heart of winter, an entire Arctic day can fit into one snowshoe adventure.
We travel from Ruka and Kuusamo to Riisitunturi National Park while the landscape is still wrapped in the blue light of morning. As the natural light slowly grows stronger, we snowshoe through quiet forests and snow-covered fell landscapes.
Around Christmas, the sun stays above the horizon for less than three hours. It travels low across the southern sky, creating long shadows and subtle colours across the snow.
During the day, we stop for a warm outdoor lunch by the fire and hot wild berry juice. There is time to warm up, enjoy the surroundings and watch the light gradually change.
In the afternoon, the journey of light begins in reverse. The sun sets and daylight slowly gives way to blue twilight. The snowy landscape reflects the remaining light, often creating shades of blue, violet and soft pink.
From blue to light – and back to blue again.
A visible sunrise, sunset or particular colours cannot be guaranteed. Clouds, snowfall and changing winter weather are all part of the experience. The adventure is about following the natural cycle of a northern winter day, whatever conditions nature gives us.
Season: Christmas & New Year festive season
Time: 08:30–16:30
Duration: approximately 8 hours including transportation
Location: Riisitunturi National Park, Finnish Lapland
Group size: 2–8 participants
Minimum age: 12 years
Difficulty: Moderate
Price: €239 / person
The experience includes a professional local nature guide, pick-up and drop-off from the Ruka area and Kuusamo centre, transportation to Riisitunturi National Park, snowshoes and poles, headlamp, a warm outdoor lunch by the fire and hot wild berry juice.
Previous snowshoeing experience is not required. A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended, as this is a full winter day outdoors in natural terrain.
Warm winter clothing is essential. We recommend several warm layers, insulated winter boots, warm gloves or mittens and a winter hat.
The exact route, walking distance and programme may be adapted according to snow, weather and other winter conditions. Safety always comes first.
Follow the Arctic Light
Blue Moment at Riisitunturi is part of MyTrail's Christmas & New Year Snowshoe Adventures – a collection of six small-group winter experiences following the changing Arctic light from the darkest night of the year towards a new beginning.
Discover the full Follow the Arctic Light collection on the MyTrail website.
MyTrail offers small-group guided nature adventures in Ruka-Kuusamo and Finnish Lapland throughout the year.