Riisitunturi National Park Snowshoe Experience

If you’re dreaming of stepping into a winter fairy tale, a snowshoe experience in Riisitunturi National Park might just be what you’re looking for. Though I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve researched it thoroughly and spoken to travelers who have. It’s clear this adventure offers a unique chance to connect with Lapland’s serene winter scenery in an eco-friendly and intimate way.

What really appeals to us about this experience is the guide’s local knowledge — they’re passionate about sharing stories and making the journey authentic. Plus, the stunning snow-covered landscapes with their frosted trees create a magical backdrop that’s hard to beat. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that you’ll need to bring your own outdoor clothing and boots suited for cold weather—something to keep in mind if you’re not packing heavy winter gear.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy gentle physical activity combined with nature and culture. It’s especially great if you want a small-group vibe with personalized attention, making it perfect whether you’re a seasoned outdoors person or trying snowshoeing for the first time. Overall, it’s an immersive experience that’s as much about the scenery as it is about the stories your guide shares.

Key Points

• Beautiful landscapes with snow-covered trees and silent forests
• Expert local guides offering stories and insights into Lapland’s culture
• Comfortable snowshoes designed for ease of use
• A traditional campfire meal with local ingredients
• Small group size (max 8 people) for personalized attention
• Pickup and drop-off included within Ruka and Kuusamo centers

What is the Riisitunturi Snowshoe Experience?

This tour is a guided journey through one of Finland’s most stunning national parks — Riisitunturi. What makes it special? The famous snow-covered trees, known locally as “tykky,” which look like frosted creatures standing tall along the trails. The scenery is breathtaking, with a sense of calm that only a winter wilderness can provide.

The experience is designed to suit all skill levels, whether you’re an avid hiker or a first-timer. The guide will help you get comfortable on the MSR Evo snowshoes, which are built for comfort and ease, so you don’t need prior experience. The walk itself typically lasts around 2.5 hours, but the total trip—including transfers—is about four hours. Depending on the weather and how much everyone wants to linger, it can stretch a little longer.

The tour includes a stop where you’ll enjoy a traditional Finnish trail meal by a campfire, using local ingredients. This meal might include instant pancakes and reindeer salami sandwiches, which many travelers find delightful. Plus, all that is served in a cozy, natural setting—perfect for warming up after a snowshoe hike.

Who Guides the Tour?

The guiding is handled by someone who knows the area like no other—local Finnish experts with a deep understanding of Riisitunturi’s natural wonders and cultural stories. Our source’s review highlighted a guide described as “super knowledgeable, nice, very friendly,” and a true professional. They share authentic stories about Lapland’s myths and history, making the trip not just scenic but also meaningful.

What to Expect on the Day

The experience begins with pickup at Ruka and Kuusamo centers, making it convenient for travelers staying in those areas. You’ll be transported to Riisitunturi National Park, a pristine setting where snow blankets everything in silence.

Once there, your guide will introduce you to your snowshoes and poles, help you get comfortable, and then lead you into the forest. As you trek, you’ll pass the iconic snow-laden trees—some resembling sculptures—and enjoy the tranquility of the wilderness. The route is customizable based on your preferences and fitness level, so no need to worry about challenging terrain.

Throughout the walk, your guide will share stories about the region’s culture, myths, and natural features. The small group size ensures plenty of personal attention and opportunities for questions.

After a good hour or two of trekking, you’ll arrive at a scenic spot for a rest and meal by the campfire. Here, you can relax, warm up, and enjoy local Finnish delicacies. This meal adds a cozy, authentic touch to the adventure, and many reviewers mention how much they appreciated this highlight.

Back on the trail, there’s time to explore more or just soak in the peaceful landscapes before heading back to the starting point. The whole experience offers a perfect balance of activity, relaxation, and cultural insight.

The Value of This Tour

At around $254.89 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest winter activity, but it’s packed with value. You get transportation, snowshoes, a guided experience, and a hearty meal, all in a small group setting. Even more, it offers a chance to see some of the most stunning landscapes in Lapland, which can be hard to access on your own.

The tour’s inclusion of the national park maintenance fee plus the personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide** makes it a worthwhile investment for those who want quality and authenticity. Plus, the free cancellation policy allows you to book with peace of mind, knowing you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What Past Travelers Say

One review sums it up perfectly: “Wonderful experience!!!!” with a guide described as “super knowledgeable, nice, very friendly.” The reviewer appreciated both the authentic stories and the delicious lunch by the fire. This kind of feedback suggests that the experience isn’t just about the scenery but also about the warmth and connection you feel during the trip.

Practical Tips

Remember, you’ll need to bring your own outdoor clothing and boots suitable for cold weather. While the tour provides snowshoes and poles, dressing appropriately is key to enjoying the day comfortably. Layering is best—think thermal base layers, waterproof outerwear, and warm accessories.

The tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness, which means it’s accessible for most people who are comfortable walking in snow for a couple of hours. The small group size generally enhances the experience, making it easier to ask questions and get tailored insights.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This snowshoe adventure is ideal if you want to see the iconic snow-laden trees and experience a genuine winter landscape in Lapland. It’s perfect for nature lovers, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a peaceful escape from crowded tourist spots. Because it’s guided by locals, it’s also a great choice if you want to learn about Lapland’s culture and stories along the way.

While it’s not specifically marketed as a family-friendly experience, the moderate physical activity makes it suitable for most healthy adults and older children who enjoy outdoor adventures. If you’re looking for a cozy, scenic day with a touch of culture, this tour ticks many boxes.

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic, and culturally enriching winter activity in Lapland, this snowshoe tour in Riisitunturi National Park is a strong contender. Its focus on small-group intimacy, authentic storytelling, and stunning scenery makes it stand out. You’ll love the way the snow-covered trees look like sculptures and how the guide’s stories bring the landscape to life.

While touring with your own outdoor gear is a consideration, the overall experience promises a memorable encounter with Lapland’s winter magic. Suitable for travelers who appreciate thoughtful guides and natural beauty, this adventure is a fantastic way to spend a few hours outside the usual tourist spots.

If you’re ready for a peaceful walk through one of Finland’s most beautiful parks, this tour could be just what you need to make your trip truly special.

Do I need my own outdoor clothing and boots?
Yes, you should bring your own clothing and footwear suitable for cold weather. The tour doesn’t provide these, so dressing in layers with waterproof gear is recommended.

How long does the snowshoe walk last?
The main walking part lasts around 2.5 hours, but the entire experience, including transfers and breaks, is about four hours.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s designed to accommodate all skill levels, with guidance on snowshoeing technique and route flexibility based on your comfort and fitness.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers pickup and drop-off in Ruka and Kuusamo, snowshoes and poles, the national park maintenance fee, and a traditional trail meal by the fire.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

What’s the best part of the experience?
Many travelers highlight the beautiful landscapes and knowledgeable guides sharing stories about Lapland’s culture, making the experience both scenic and meaningful.

Is this experience family-friendly?
While not officially marketed for families, it’s suitable for most healthy adults and children who enjoy outdoor activities and moderate physical exertion.

How many people are in each group?
The small group size is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Riisitunturi National Park and concludes back at the meeting point after the walk and meal.

Hopefully, this gives you a clear picture of what to expect and helps you decide whether this snowy adventure in Riisitunturi is right for your Lapland trip. Happy travels!