Rovaniemi: Snowshoeing in a magical snowy forest

If you’re after a peaceful, accessible way to explore the stunning winter landscape of Finnish Lapland, this snowshoeing tour in Rovaniemi might just be your ideal choice. It’s a gentle activity suitable for a wide age range, from 10 up to 75, making it a great option whether you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or even with older family members who enjoy nature without the strenuous effort.

One of the things we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines easy, laid-back hiking with a chance to learn about the local forest and culture — all wrapped up in a cozy, friendly setting. Plus, the inclusion of hot drinks, snacks, and a few photos makes it feel like more than just a walk; it’s a little winter adventure you’ll want to recall for years.

On the flip side, a downside to keep in mind is that this tour is fairly short — around 4.5 hours — and doesn’t go very far into the wilderness, so if you’re craving a more rugged, extensive trek, this might feel a bit light. Still, for those looking for a relaxed introduction to Rovaniemi’s snowy forests, it hits the spot.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a low-key, scenic experience with knowledgeable guides, some cultural insights, and a chance to enjoy Finland’s winter magic without the physical challenge of more intense activities.

Key Points

• Suitable for all fitness levels since the activity is classified as easy
• Includes snowshoes, winter gear (upon request), and transportation within 15 km of Rovaniemi
• Learn about Finnish nature and culture from friendly, professional guides
• Enjoy snacks, hot berry juice, and sausages with vegetarian options available
• Photos of your trip will be provided to help remember the experience
• Small group size (max 8) ensures a personal, relaxed atmosphere

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Forest: What to Expect

When you sign up for this snowshoeing adventure, you’ll be guided to a scenic wilderness area close to Rovaniemi, perfect for a peaceful escape into nature. The journey begins with a pickup from your accommodation within a 15-kilometer radius — just let them know your location, and the small group setting helps keep things intimate and relaxed.

Once in the forest, your guide will help you put on snowshoes, which are included and tailored to your size. Don’t worry if you’re new to snowshoeing; the activity is rated as easy, and your guide will give a quick rundown on how to walk comfortably in them. As you trek through the snow, the fresh, crisp air and the silence of the forest create a calming, almost meditative atmosphere.

The scenery is what makes this experience special. Expect to see snow-covered trees, animal tracks in the snow, and maybe even catch a glimpse of wildlife in the distance. The routes are chosen for their beauty, not for their difficulty — you’ll walk slightly uphill at times, but nothing strenuous or overly challenging.

One of the highlights? Visiting a small observation tower after about an hour and a half of walking. Here, you’ll get a panoramic view of the snow-laden taiga, perfect for photos and just soaking in the winter wonderland vibe. As one reviewer noted, “the support is great, the places visited are magnificent, and the barbecue at the end is very good.”

The Cozy Fire and Refreshments

After your snowshoe adventure, everyone gathers around a fire, which adds a warm, communal feel to the experience. Here, you can enjoy hot berry juice and sausages, which is a lovely touch that elevates the simple pleasure of sitting outdoors in winter. Vegetarian options are available if you let the organizers know in advance.

The guide will share insights about Finnish nature and local culture, making the experience educational as well as scenic. Having a knowledgeable guide means you get stories and details about the forest, animals, and traditions that you might not find in a typical brochure.

Photos and Memories

A nice perk? You’ll receive a few photos taken during the trip — a simple but thoughtful way to help you remember the trip fondly. These snapshots are taken by your guide, adding a personal touch that makes sharing with friends later even easier.

Price and Value

At $96 per person, this experience offers quite good value for the overall quality. You’re paying not just for the walk but for the guidance, gear, transportation, food, and photos. The small group size ensures you won’t be just another face in a large crowd, which is often a concern on popular tours. Plus, the flexibility of booking and paying later makes it easy to reserve without commitment upfront.

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The Review Highlights

Two reviews stand out and really capture what you can expect. Martin describes his private tour, appreciating the personalized attention and the chance to learn about Finnish customs. He mentions, “after a good 20 minutes’ drive, we arrived at a national park and hiked through a snowy forest slightly uphill to an observation tower.” The fact that he felt it was a “successful trip” offered by a “very small company” hints at a more personal experience.

Thomas calls the hike “magical,” praising guide Ino’s support and the scenic routes, which “look like something out of Narnia.” His excitement about the barbecue at the end suggests that the food and social aspect really enhance the trip’s appeal.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This snowshoeing tour is perfect for travelers seeking a gentle, scenic introduction to Finland’s winter landscape. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxed experience that combines nature, culture, and comfort without intense physical exertion. Since children under 10 or those over 75 aren’t suited for this activity, it’s best for middle-aged adults and older, especially if they value a small, intimate group.

If you’re traveling with someone who appreciates quiet nature, beautiful views, and a touch of local flavor, this tour will feel right at home. It’s also a good choice if you want to avoid the hustle of larger tours but still enjoy a genuine outdoor experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children under 10?
No, the activity is not suitable for children under 10, primarily due to the physical nature of snowshoeing and safety considerations.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 4.5 hours, including transportation, walking, and the fire-side break.

Are winter clothes and boots included?
They are provided only upon request, so if you don’t have suitable gear, be sure to ask when booking.

What is the difficulty level?
It’s rated as easy, making it accessible for most fitness levels.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included within 15 km of Rovaniemi’s center. Just specify your location.

Can vegetarians participate?
Yes, vegetarian options for the snacks and hot drinks are available on request.

What do I need to bring?
If you don’t request winter gear, bring warm clothing suitable for outdoor winter activities. Otherwise, gear is provided.

Will I get photos from the trip?
Yes, a few pictures will be taken by your guide and shared with you afterward.

What else is included in the price?
Snowshoes, use of winter gear (upon request), transportation, a professional guide, snacks, hot drinks, and photos.

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

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a low-pressure way to enjoy Lapland’s winter scenery and want to learn about the region from friendly, knowledgeable guides, this snowshoeing tour is worth considering. It’s a great mix of light activity, cultural insight, and cozy comfort, especially if you prefer your adventures to be relaxed rather than rugged.

While it doesn’t go deep into the wilderness or offer adrenaline-pumping experiences, it makes up for it with personal touches, beautiful views, and a genuine local atmosphere. The inclusion of food, photos, and small-group intimacy creates a warm, memorable outing that complements a trip to Rovaniemi perfectly.

Ideal for those new to snowshoeing or travelers seeking a peaceful day in the snow, this experience offers a gentle but authentic taste of Finnish winter life.

You can check availability for your dates here: