Saariselkä: Snowshoeing Tour in Urho Kekkonen National Park

Traveling to Lapland offers a chance to explore some of Europe’s most pristine winter wilderness. For those who want to experience the quiet beauty of snow-covered forests and learn about Arctic wildlife, the Snowshoeing Tour in Urho Kekkonen National Park is a fantastic option. While we haven’t personally tried it, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest this tour delivers an authentic, well-guided adventure—particularly appealing to nature lovers and beginners alike.

What we love about this experience is how it balances guided expertise with freedom to wander on less-trodden trails. The opportunity to see unique wildlife footprints and marvel at snowy trees makes every step feel special. Plus, the inclusion of a warm drink at the end adds a cozy touch. The only consideration? The tour’s duration varies, so you’ll want to choose the right length for your stamina and schedule. Overall, it’s a great fit for travelers craving an active, nature-rich experience with local guides.

Key Points

• Authentic Wilderness Experience: Walk on unmarked trails and enjoy the peaceful silence of snow-covered forests.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides help you spot wildlife signs and explain the natural surroundings.
• Flexible Options: Choose from 2-hour, 4-hour, or evening tours to match your energy level and daylight hours.
• All Levels Welcome: Suitable for both beginners and experienced snowshoers, with routes adjusted for snow conditions and pace.
• Comfort and Convenience: Equipment and warm drinks are included, making the tour hassle-free.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 10) ensure an intimate, personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Snowshoeing Experience

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This snowshoeing tour in Urho Kekkonen National Park isn’t just a walk in the snow; it’s a carefully curated journey into Lapland’s winter landscape. The tour starts at the Outdoor Expert Saariselkä office, just a few steps from the park’s border, making logistics straightforward. From there, the adventure unfolds through quiet, snow-laden forests, away from busy marked trails. This part of the experience appeals to those who want a taste of wilderness without the complexity of planning their own route.

What truly sets this tour apart is the opportunity to explore unknown trails. Unlike standard snowshoe hikes that stick to well-worn paths, this tour ventures onto personal trails where nature’s details—like animal tracks and the shapes of snow-laden trees—become the main attractions. As Ralf, one enthusiastic reviewer notes, “Great tour, superb guide, fantastic scenery. We had a blast and can recommend the tour without reservation.” That’s the kind of genuine praise that suggests you’ll get both beautiful views and expert local insight.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour’s structure offers flexibility depending on your chosen duration. The 2-hour option is perfect if you want a quick taste of Lapland’s winter wilderness, while the 4-hour version allows for a more leisurely exploration. The evening tour adds a magical dimension, with the chance to see the forest illuminated by the soft glow of the Arctic twilight.

Once you meet your guide at the Saariselkä office, you’ll be fitted with snowshoes—a simple but game-changing piece of equipment that distributes your weight evenly over the snow, allowing you to walk comfortably on deep snow. The guides are fluent in English and Finnish, ensuring you get clear explanations about the terrain and wildlife signs.

As you start walking, you’ll notice the shapes of snow-covered trees—some resemble sculptures, others are unique due to wind and snow load. Your guide will point out footprints of Arctic wildlife, giving you a glimpse into the life that continues even in winter’s quiet. You may see tracks of reindeer, foxes, or even smaller creatures, each telling a story.

The Experience: Nature, Wildlife, and Atmosphere

Walking through untouched snow, you’ll feel the crisp, invigorating air of Lapland. The silence is profound, broken only by your footsteps and the occasional call of a bird or the rustle of trees. The guides are attentive, adjusting routes based on snow conditions and group pace, which makes the tour accessible for all skill levels.

The guides’ knowledge elevates the experience. They explain how the unique footprints are the fingerprints of Arctic wildlife and share insights into the ecosystem. This educational aspect adds depth to what might otherwise be a simple walk.

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End with Warmth

After your trek, you’ll return to the starting point where a warm drink awaits. Imagine sipping hot berry juice or tea while soaking in the snowy scenery—this simple pleasure caps off the experience beautifully. The cozy ending leaves most travelers feeling refreshed and culturally connected, having seen a slice of Lapland’s winter life.

Practical Details and Value

The cost of $85 per person is competitive for a guided, small-group experience that includes equipment and guidance. The small group limit (up to 10 participants) ensures a more personal, less rushed experience—perfect for those who want genuine interaction and tailored guidance.

The tour’s duration varies from 2 to 4 hours, offering flexibility. The shorter options suit travelers with tight schedules or those new to snowshoeing, while the longer tour might appeal to adventurers looking to spend more time in the wild.

What’s Included and What You Need to Know

• Included: Guidance in English, equipment, and a warm drink.
• What to bring: Outdoor clothing appropriate for winter conditions—think layers, waterproofs, hat, gloves, and sturdy boots.
• Pace and route adjustments: Based on snow conditions and group ability, ensuring everyone remains comfortable.
• Suitability: Both beginners and seasoned snowshoers will find this tour accessible and enjoyable.

Booking and Flexibility

The reservation process offers the convenience of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind. You can reserve now and pay later, making it easier to plan your Arctic itinerary without upfront commitments.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge and friendliness as key strengths. One enthusiastic reviewer emphasizes, “Great tour, superb guide, fantastic scenery.” Such feedback underscores the value of local expertise and personal touch. The scenic beauty, combined with expert narration, makes every mile memorable.

Travelers also value the opportunity to see wildlife footprints and snow-covered trees up close, adding educational interest to the scenic walk. The small group size means you won’t feel rushed or lost in a crowd, allowing for questions and personalized attention.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This snowshoeing experience is ideal for nature enthusiasts, families, and beginners eager to explore Lapland’s winter wilderness without requiring previous experience. It’s especially suitable for those who want a guided, safe way to see the Arctic landscape and wildlife signs. The scenic, peaceful trails make it a calming yet adventurous activity—perfect for a day in the snow.

If you’re looking for a practical, authentic outdoor experience with knowledgeable guides and manageable group sizes, this tour hits all those points. Plus, with the flexibility to choose different durations, it’s adaptable to most travel plans.

The Sum Up

The Saariselkä Snowshoeing Tour in Urho Kekkonen National Park offers an engaging blend of nature, wildlife, and local expertise. It provides an accessible way for travelers of all levels to enjoy Lapland’s winter beauty without the need for advanced skills or equipment. The inclusion of guides who know the terrain and wildlife signs adds educational value and confidence, especially for first-timers.

The scenic trails, snowy trees, and animal footprints create a visual and immersive experience that’s both peaceful and invigorating. Paired with the cozy conclusion of warm drinks, it’s a well-rounded outdoor activity that captures the essence of Lapland winter.

This tour is a worthwhile choice for those seeking a genuine Arctic adventure—whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family. Its affordability, small group size, and flexible options make it one of the best ways to explore Finland’s snowy wilderness without hassle.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s designed to be accessible for both beginners and experienced snowshoers. The guides adjust the route and pace based on snow conditions and the group’s ability.

What should I wear?
You’ll need outdoor clothing suitable for winter weather—think waterproof layers, warm hat, gloves, and sturdy footwear. The tour provides equipment, so just bring your layers.

How long does the tour last?
You can choose from a 2-hour, 4-hour, or evening tour, depending on your schedule and stamina. The shorter option offers a quick taste, while the longer one allows for more exploration.

What is included in the price?
Price includes guidance in English, snowshoe equipment, and a warm drink afterward. It’s a straightforward package offering good value for the experience.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Outdoor Expert Saariselkä office, just a few steps from the park’s border, making logistics simple and convenient.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. This flexibility helps you plan without stress.

Is this activity suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s flexibility and suitability for all skill levels suggest it could be enjoyed by families with children comfortable in winter outdoor conditions. Confirm with the provider for specific age recommendations.

This snowshoeing experience in Saariselkä promises an authentic, guided peek into the Arctic’s winter landscape, perfect for explorers looking to connect with nature in a peaceful, engaging way.

You can check availability for your dates here: