Riisitunturi National Park Private Snowshoe Adventure

If you’re dreaming of stepping into a winter wonderland, a private snowshoe tour in Riisitunturi National Park might just be the experience for you. While we haven’t personally laced up and set out on this exact trek, plenty of travelers have raved about its magic and personalized approach. It’s a great option if you’re after an intimate, flexible adventure with expert guidance through some of Lapland’s most striking snowy landscapes.

What really catches our eye about this experience are two things: the tailored pace and route thanks to the private setup, and the chance to enjoy breathtaking views and stories from a knowledgeable local guide. On the flip side, a potential consideration might be the weather, since the full magic of the tour depends heavily on conditions—something out of your control, but worth keeping in mind. This tour seems best suited for travelers who want to explore at their own rhythm, whether that’s a gentle walk or a longer trek, and who love a mix of nature, culture, and cozy campfire moments.

Key Points

• Customizable experience: The private tour adapts to your pace, route, and interests, offering a personalized adventure.
• Flexible timing: Options include sunrise, sunset, and night departures—perfect for catching Lapland’s changing light and possibly the northern lights.
• Stunning scenery: Expect views of snow-covered trees and the famous “snow monsters” or tykky, with opportunities for photography and quiet reflection.
• Expert local guidance: Guides share stories about the area’s nature, wildlife, and local life, enriching your understanding.
• Comfort and safety: Provided snowshoes, poles, and headlamps (if needed) ensure you’re well-equipped, while the campfire break adds warmth and charm.
• Environmental awareness: The tour plants a tree for every campfire, showing a commitment to giving back to nature.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: What to Expect from Your Snowshoe Journey

From the moment you’re greeted at the park gate or picked up from your hotel, the experience promises a relaxed, private vibe. The guides take care of the logistics, providing you with warm clothing, snowshoes, and poles, so you can focus on the adventure rather than gear hassles. Depending on your chosen departure time—whether sunrise, sunset, or nighttime—you’ll begin in soft twilight or under the glow of the moon and possibly the northern lights.

The initial stretch is all about crunching through pristine snow in peaceful forest surroundings. The only soundtrack? The gentle sound of snow under your feet and perhaps some quiet wildlife activity. Your guide will lead you along marked trails or untouched snow, depending on conditions, offering the chance to make your own tracks through this untouched wilderness. As you climb, the views open up, revealing the iconic snow monsters—trees heavily laden with snow—and expansive vistas.

What makes this tour stand out is the flexibility—the guide shapes the route and pace to your wishes. Some may prefer a leisurely stroll, soaking in the scenery, while others might want a longer, more challenging trek. Expect to cover around 4-6 km of snowshoeing on terrain rated as moderately easy, making it accessible for most reasonably fit travelers.

The Magic of the Views and Stories

One of the tour’s highlights is the storytelling. Your guide, a local Finnish expert, will share insights about the area’s flora, fauna, and traditions. This adds a layer of meaning and helps you connect deeply with the landscape. We loved the way guides describe the “snow monsters” as heavy snow-laden trees—a surreal sight that often features in Lapland photos.

Depending on the season, the light changes dramatically. January offers that distinctive blue hue, while late winter and early spring bring longer days and more sunlight—perfect for extended hikes or catching the warmth of the sunset. Night tours are particularly special, with the possibility of seeing northern lights or enjoying the landscape under a full moon, which adds a surreal touch to an already magical setting.

Taking a Break: Campfire and Crepes

What’s a winter adventure in Lapland without warming up around a campfire? During the tour, your guide will prepare crepes or pancakes over the fire, which is a delightful treat after some exertion. They’ll also serve warm drinks made from wild berries—perfect for keeping the chill at bay. If you have dietary needs, just let them know beforehand. Each campfire also contributes to environmental stewardship, as a tree is planted for every fire—small, meaningful action that helps preserve this pristine environment.

You might find yourself lingering on the snow, taking photos, or simply soaking in the silence and stunning scenery. The warmth of the fire, combined with the friendly stories from your guide, makes this a experience—not just an outdoor activity but a moment of genuine connection with Lapland’s winter spirit.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

This tour lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on weather, route, and your pace, with an additional transfer time. Pickup options are available from Ruka or Kuusamo center, making it easy to include in your larger trip plans. The private setting means fewer people, more flexibility, and a more intimate experience overall.

Dress warmly in layers, outdoor clothing, and sturdy boots—the weather can be unpredictable but generally very cold. The tour provides snowshoes, poles, and headlamps if you opt for night departures. Bringing along some snacks and a camera is encouraged, as you’ll want to capture the incredible views and perhaps some moments of peaceful solitude.

Pricing is reasonable considering the personalized nature of the experience, especially since it’s a private tour, which allows the guide to focus entirely on your preferences. The tour also emphasizes eco-friendliness, planting a tree for each campfire, so you can feel good about supporting sustainable travel.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those wanting a personalized, flexible winter adventure. It suits travelers who value nature, storytelling, and a sense of peace in the snowy landscape. Because of the moderate terrain, it’s accessible for most people in decent health, but it’s not geared towards high-intensity hiking.

If you’re interested in potential northern lights viewing or sunset panoramas, this tour offers multiple departure times, giving you a shot at spectacular lighting. It’s also a wonderful choice for anyone wanting a quiet, scenic escape with the comfort of a private guide—perfect whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a small group.

Final Thoughts

The Riisitunturi National Park Private Snowshoe Adventure offers a genuine taste of winter in Lapland, blending natural beauty with personalized service. You’ll get to explore snow-blanketed forests, learn about the local environment from a knowledgeable guide, and warm up with campfire treats in a setting that’s straight out of a Christmas card. Its flexibility and intimate vibe make it especially appealing to travelers who want a tailored experience rather than a cookie-cutter tour.

While weather can influence the full magic of this trip—especially the northern lights or sunset—the overall experience is one of serenity, stunning scenery, and cultural connection. It’s a wonderful way to see Lapland’s winter landscape at your own pace, feeling like you have the wilderness to yourself.

If you’re after a peaceful, private, and beautifully scenic outdoor adventure that celebrates the quiet majesty of Lapland’s snow-covered peaks and forests, this tour deserves a serious look.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the tour involves snowshoeing on moderate terrain. If your kids are comfortable in winter conditions and enjoy outdoor adventures, it could work. Just check with the provider about age restrictions or specific needs.

What should I wear for the tour?
Dress warmly in layers, outdoor clothing, and sturdy winter shoes. The guide provides snowshoes and poles, and headlamps if needed for night tours. It’s good to bring an extra layer for breaks and a waterproof outer layer is advisable.

Can I reserve a specific departure time?
Yes, the tour offers a wide range of start times—including sunrise, sunset, and night departures—so you can pick what best fits your schedule and interests.

How long does the hike last?
Expect around 3 to 4 hours of snowshoeing, depending on your route and weather conditions, plus transfer times.

Is the tour eco-friendly?
Yes, for every campfire, a tree is planted as part of their environmental efforts, making this a more sustainable way to experience Lapland.

What if the weather is bad on the day of my tour?
Weather can influence the experience, especially for viewing northern lights or sunset. The guide may suggest rescheduling if conditions aren’t safe or suitable, and you can usually cancel with full refund if you notify at least 24 hours in advance.

If you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic, and highly personalized snow adventure in Lapland, this tour fits the bill. It’s a chance to connect with the landscape, learn from locals, and enjoy the winter magic in a way that’s tailored just for you.

You can check availability for your dates here: