Overview
5 days snowshoeing in the stunning wilderness of Finland
Nestled in the heart of the Finnish wilderness lies the beautiful Oulanka
National Park, a vast expanse of snow-laden pine trees, frozen lakes and
waterfalls. There is no better way to explore this stunning setting than by
strapping on a pair of snowshoes and heading out to break new trails. In the
company of our expert leader, we take varied day tours in the surrounding
area, including a visit to the spectacular Riisitunturi National Park.
Highlights
* Break in new trails in an idyllic winter landscape
* Explore 2 national parks
* Stay in cosy accommodation in beautiful wilderness location with sauna and
outdoor hot tub
* Try downhill skiing and snowmobile safaris
Itinerary
Day 1 Start Basecamp Oulanka.
Start Basecamp Oulanka
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Day 2
Introduction to snowshoeing with an easy hike in the national park; Oulanka
by night.
In the morning we are provided with all of the equipment needed for a week of
snowshoeing in arctic conditions, before heading straight out onto the frozen
Juuma Lake for an easy walk as an introduction to snowshoeing. Our route will
lead us through snow-caked trees and along the river Kitka, passing an old
flour mill by the Myllykoski rapids. The afternoon is free for a self-guided
snowshoeing trip or just to relax at Basecamp with the sauna or
hot-tub.This evening we head out for nighttime snowshoeing, in search for
the Northern Lights.
Day 3
Snowshoe walk over suspensionbridge around Lake Jyravajarvi and Castle
Rocks.
Today’s walk begins over a long suspension bridge that hangs across the
Niskakoski rapids. We then head to the pristine frozen lake of Jyravajarvi
where we can have the real snow showing experience in an atmosphere of total
silence. This brings us to Pyrelampi where we will stop for a snack.
After the rest we walk across the secluded area to Linnakallio Castle Rocks,
a beautiful wall of rock standing isolated on the banks of the river. Then we
will be passing by Jyrv, the biggest waterfall of the national park and
the Aallokko rapids. Along the path you can also admire beautiful lichens
hanging from the trees when we snowshoe across the powder snow.
On our return to Basecamp we cross a second suspension bridge over the
Myllykoski rapids.
Day 4
Transfer to Riisitunturi National Park; walk through a unique landscape to
viewpoint.
We transfer to the neighbouring Riisitunturi National Park. Although
geographically they are not far apart, the differences between the two
national parks are highly noticeable. What makes this area so special is the
incredible effect that the heavy snow has on the trees as you climb higher
into the clearings of the fjell. Twisted, bent and covered in thick white
powder, it is almost as if you are passing by hundreds of snow creatures.
This memorable walk then culminates in a hike to the top of the fjell for a
fantastic view of this wonderful alien landscape.
Day 5
Morning visit reindeer farm and museum with a ride on a reindeer sleigh; free
afternoon in Ruka for optional activities.
In the morning, we visit the reindeer farm and museum where everyone will
have the chance to ride on a reindeer sleigh. The visit then draws to a close
with some hot drinks and some reindeer sausages round an open fire. We spend
the rest of the day at the popular ski resort of Ruka. Your guide will take
care of transfers and can book activities for you. Group transfers are
included only to the designated areas and are scheduled at specific times, it
is advisable to check at reception before making your activities
booking.Downhill skiing and snowmobile safaris are available. See the
‘Optional excursions’ section below. Please note that due to operational
reasons, the bookings for activities in Ruka need to be made by Tuesday.
Day 6
Long snowshoe tour in Oulanka National Park following the ‘Little Bear
Trail’.
Today is the longest day of snowshoeing as we head deep into Oulanka National
Park. Our guide takes us on what is known in the area as the ‘Little Bear
Trail’, which encompasses some of the most spectacular scenery in the park.
The trail takes us to the south side of the River Kitka and then up to the
Kallioportti viewpoint, where we survey the vast snow-covered surroundings.
On the return to Basecamp we head over another suspension bridge in
Harrisuvanto before taking a well-earned rest in the sauna or the outdoor hot
tub.
Day 7
Optional activities including ice climbing and snowmobiling; dinner around a
campfire.
Today we have several options to make the most of the magical Finland
wilderness. Some of the activities available are: an introduction to
cross-country skiing and un-guided snowshoeing and dogsledding.As a
farewell celebration, we have the option of eating dinner around a campfire
on the edge of the National Park.
Day 8
End Basecamp Oulanka.
Trip ends at Basecamp Oulanka. Those on the group flight transfer to Kuusamo
and fly to London.
Lunch is included for clients booked on the group flights for departures from
Dec. 15th to Feb. 16th (included) due to a lunchtime arrival inbound flight.
