Levi: Lakeside Forest Snowshoeing — An Authentic Arctic Winter Experience
Imagine trekking through snow-blanketed forests, with the silence of winter broken only by your footsteps and the occasional crack of ice. That’s exactly what this Levi Lakeside Forest Snowshoeing tour promises — a peaceful, immersive walk into some of Lapland’s most beautiful scenery. Although I haven’t personally strapped on snowshoes in Levi, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a genuine, accessible Arctic adventure that appeals to a wide range of travelers.
What I love about this experience is the opportunity to explore untouched snowy landscapes without needing advanced skills — just the confidence to walk and a sense of curiosity. Plus, the chance to walk on a frozen lake is a rare and memorable highlight that sets this tour apart. A minor consideration is that the tour requires participants to be reasonably fit, so those with low fitness levels might want to assess their comfort with walking on snow for 1.5 hours. This tour suits nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone eager to connect with Lapland’s quiet winter magic.
Key Points
- Accessible for Beginners: No special skills needed, just good walking confidence.
- Stunning Scenery: Forests, snow-covered trees, and lakes in a pristine winter landscape.
- Local Insights: Guided by knowledgeable Finnish guides sharing stories and facts.
- Value for Money: For around $101, you get snowshoes, poles, gaiters, and a hot drink, making it a well-rounded experience.
- Flexible Experience: Includes time for photos, snow play, and even finding your own paths.
- Ideal for All Ages: Suitable for travelers over 9 years old with moderate fitness.
A Detailed Look at the Levi Lakeside Forest Snowshoeing Tour
This two-hour adventure starts at the Levi tourist information parking area on Levintie 1603, right in the heart of this popular Lapland resort. From there, a brief 10-minute van ride takes you into the snowy wilderness, setting the tone for an experience that balances comfort with authentic outdoor fun. The tour is structured to maximize your time exploring, with gentle walking through hillside forests and onto the frozen surface of a lake.
You can check availability for your dates here:The Itinerary: Exploring the Arctic with Ease
Stop 1: Starting Point — Levintie 1603
This is your meeting and departure point. It’s a convenient location close to Levi’s main facilities, making it easy to find and prepare. The tour providers, Juki Tours, ensure a smooth start, with all gear provided — snowshoes, poles, gaiters, and a warming hot drink.
Stop 2: Van Ride (10 Minutes)
A short ride takes you from the busy tourist area into the quiet woods. This transition from the lively resort to the tranquil wilderness is a favorite part, as it sparks anticipation for what’s ahead.
Stop 3: Forest and Lake Walk — 1.5 Hours
This is the core of the experience. You’ll explore the snowy hillside forests, creating your own trails or following your guide. The highlight is walking onto the frozen lake, where the vast, icy surface opens up a surreal, almost otherworldly space. Imagine standing on a glassy sheet of ice, surrounded by snow-covered trees and distant hills — it’s truly a scene for photographers and dreamers alike.
Your guide, often Finnish and knowledgeable, shares stories about local life, nature, and the landscape. They’ll point out flora, fauna, and the quirky details of Arctic winter living. This storytelling adds depth to what otherwise could be just a walk in the snow.
Stop 4: Return to Levintie 1603
After your explorations, you’ll head back to the starting point, with plenty of time left for photos, snowball fights, or just soaking in the wintry silence.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Sirkka.
What’s Included and What to Bring
For just $101 per person, you receive all necessary snowshoe equipment, including gaiters to keep your boots dry, poles for stability, and snowshoes designed for easy walking. The hot juice break is a thoughtful touch, warming your hands and spirits amid the cold.
The key to comfort? Dress warmly. Think layered clothing, thermal wear, waterproof jackets, gloves, and hats. Although not explicitly stated, it’s safe to assume that appropriate outdoor gear will make a big difference in how much you enjoy the experience.
Group Size and Accessibility
The tour is designed to be accessible to most people with moderate fitness levels and walking confidence. It’s not suitable for children under 9, so it’s geared more toward families with older kids or adults. The group size isn’t specified, but with live guides in both English and Finnish, you’ll likely enjoy a cozy, friendly atmosphere.
The Value Proposition
At $101, this experience offers excellent value. Everything you need is included, and the emphasis is on genuine scenery, local stories, and a relaxed pace. Compared to other adventurous or more equipment-intensive options, this snowshoe tour strikes a balance between accessibility and adventure, making it accessible to beginners and seasoned travelers alike.
More Great Tours NearbyAuthentic Reviews: What Past Participants Say
Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the breathtaking views. Julia describes her experience as “magical,” especially walking on the frozen lake at sunrise and creating her own snow paths. She highlights the guide’s warmth and the opportunity to enjoy the scenery without strenuous stamina — “You don’t need a lot of stamina for this tour.” Her mention of the “breathtakingly beautiful” scenery hints at the visual rewards that await.
Hans appreciated the “wonderful nature walk,” noting the winter landscape as a highlight. Giulia’s review emphasizes the chance to see Levi from a new perspective, even catching a sunrise from Santa’s cabin — a reminder that this tour can be part of a broader day of exploring Levi’s winter wonders.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out
Several aspects shine through the reviews. First, the friendly, knowledgeable guides make a big difference, sharing stories that deepen the experience. Second, the stunning scenery — snow-laden trees, a vast icy lake, and the mountain backdrop — creates memorable photo moments and a true feeling of Arctic adventure.
The fact that the paths are already there or can be created offers flexibility for different walking paces and preferences. The opportunity for snow play and photo sessions adds fun and personal touches for travelers who love capturing memories.
Practical Tips for the Tour
- Dress in warm layers — temperatures in Lapland can be well below freezing, especially when wind chills are factored in.
- Bring a camera or smartphone — the scenery is picture-perfect, and you’ll want to capture the snow-covered forests and icy lake.
- Arrive early — being punctual ensures a smooth start and allows you to settle in before heading out.
- Be prepared for a moderate walk — the 1.5-hour trek is manageable for most people who can walk confidently, but those with low fitness might find it more challenging.
- Consider bringing your own snacks — although hot juice is provided, you might want some additional energy for longer stays or photos.
- No special snowshoe experience needed — the gear and guide support make this suitable for beginners.
The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?
This Levi lakeside snowshoeing adventure offers a peaceful slice of Lapland’s winter beauty, perfect for travelers wanting a gentle introduction to Arctic landscapes. It balances easy accessibility with spectacular scenery, making it ideal for families, photography lovers, or anyone curious about snowshoeing but hesitant to try more strenuous options. The inclusion of local stories and the chance to walk on a frozen lake add a layer of authenticity and wonder often missing in more commercialized excursions.
If you’re after a relaxing, visually stunning, and culturally informative experience, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate quiet moments in nature and want to learn about Lapland from friendly, knowledgeable guides. For a modest price, you gain not only scenery but also a warm memory of Lapland’s winter magic.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
Not for children under 9 years old, as the tour requires a reasonable level of walking confidence and fitness.
What should I wear?
Warm clothing is essential — think layered thermal wear, waterproof jackets, gloves, and hats. Dress warmly to stay comfortable during the walk.
How long is the snowshoeing part?
The main hiking section lasts about 1.5 hours, with total tour duration around 2 hours including transport and breaks.
Do I need prior snowshoeing experience?
No, this tour is designed for beginners. The provided gear and guide support make it accessible even if it’s your first time.
What’s included in the price?
Snowshoes, poles, gaiters, and a hot juice break are all included, making it a good value for the experience.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Levintie 1603, the Levi tourist information parking, and returns there after the walk.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing flexible planning.
This snowshoeing tour in Levi is a fantastic way to enjoy Lapland’s winter in a relaxed, authentic manner. Whether you’re snapping photos, listening to local stories, or simply soaking in the silent beauty, it’s an experience that’s hard to forget.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tour Reviews in Sirkka
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Sirkka we have reviewed
- Levi: Reindeer Trails E-fatbike Adventure
- Levi: Lappish Reindeer Sled Ride 3 km
- Levi: Pallastunturi National Park e-fatbiking Adventure
- Levi: Guided Hike on the Shaman Päiviö Trail
- Levi: Reindeer Experience with Sled Ride
- Levi: 6 Hour Authentic Snowmobile Safari to Lappish Villages
- Levi Lapland: Northern Lights Snowshoeing
- Levi: One Hour Snowmobiling Experience
- Lapland: Guided Fishing Trip
- Levi: Midnight Sun Canoe Tour
- Levi: River Rafting Adventure with car tyre
- Levi Northern Lights Experience