Snowshoe in a Winter Forest

Exploring Swedish Lapland on Snowshoes: A Practical Review of the Winter Forest Tour

If you’re dreaming of stepping into a true winter wonderland, a snowshoe trek through Swedish Lapland might just be what you need. This particular tour from Kiruna offers a gentle and accessible way to experience the Arctic forest, and based on the glowing reviews and detailed info available, it’s a solid choice for anyone craving a taste of nature, culture, and a bit of winter magic. We haven’t done it personally, but we’ve gathered enough insights to give you an honest, thorough picture.

One of the biggest perks? The small group size—only up to 8 people—which means you’ll get plenty of attention from your guide and a more personalized experience. Plus, the guide’s knowledge really shines through, making the trek not just scenic but also informative. We also love that the tour includes a chance to spot animal tracks and hear stories about how wildlife survives in this cold environment.

However, since no extra clothing is provided, you’ll want to dress properly for the weather—layers are key. That’s a small consideration but worth noting if you’re sensitive to cold or planning to go in winter conditions. This trip is best suited for those looking for an easy, nature-focused outing that combines gentle exercise with learning about the local culture. Perfect for adventure lovers who enjoy a relaxed pace but want something memorable.

Key Points

• Accessible for most with an easy activity level and a length of about 2.5 hours.
• Includes all necessary equipment like snowshoes, but you’ll need to bring your own warm clothing.
• Small group size enhances the experience with more personalized attention.
• The hot berry juice and cookies add a cozy touch to the outdoor adventure.
• Guides are highly knowledgeable, with reviews praising their passion and expertise.
• Suitable for travelers aged 12 and up—it’s a family-friendly option for older children interested in nature.

What to Expect on the Snowshoe in a Winter Forest Tour

The core of this experience is a gentle walk—roughly 2 to 2.5 kilometers through the snowy trees of Swedish Lapland. We loved the way it felt both accessible and immersive—no need to be an expert hiker, just a curiosity to explore and enjoy the scenery.

The Trek and Its Landscape

Your journey begins with round-trip transfers from central Kiruna, which makes planning easier. The pickup points are conveniently located at Camp Ripan, the Tourist Information center, and Hotel Scandic, so you can choose what suits your stay best. Once you arrive, you’re equipped with snowshoes—an essential tool for navigating snow-covered terrain without sinking—allowing you to traverse the winter forest comfortably.

Throughout the walk, the focus is on nature and wildlife. Your guide will be on the lookout for animal tracks—such as foxes, reindeer, or birds—and share stories about how these creatures survive cold months. As one reviewer highlighted, “Anders, the guide, knew exactly what the tracks were and explained animal behavior,” which added depth to what could otherwise be just a walk.

The Cultural Element

Beyond the scenery, the tour offers insights into local culture and living in Lapland year-round. You’ll learn about how people adapt to this harsh environment and perhaps hear stories that connect the landscape with Sami traditions or everyday life in Kiruna.

The Food and Break

A cozy pause amid the snow is part of the charm. You’ll be served hot homemade berry juice and traditional cookies—specifically, Kangoskaka—adding a warm, homemade touch to your outdoor adventure. Reviewers consistently praise the quality of the snacks, with one saying, “The juice and cakes tasted food and gave us a real taste of local flavors.”

The Guide and Group Atmosphere

Having a small group means your guide, Anders, can tailor the experience, answer questions, and ensure everyone’s comfortable. Many reviews mention how friendly and enthusiastic he is, making the walk not just educational but also enjoyable. “Anders was very kind and knew a lot about the country and city,” says one traveler, emphasizing the personable aspect of this trip.

Price, Duration, and Practical Tips

Costing around $139.17 per person, this tour offers good value for a nature experience infused with cultural insights. The duration of 2 hours 30 minutes makes it a manageable outing—long enough to see and learn a lot, but not so lengthy that it becomes tiring.

Since no additional clothing is supplied, dressing appropriately is crucial. Think warm layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy boots. The activity is rated as “easy,” so it’s suitable for most people in decent health, and the minimum age is 12, making it accessible for families with older children interested in snow and wildlife.

The group size is capped at 8, which helps keep the atmosphere intimate and allows guides to give more personalized attention. Booking is popular, usually made around 54 days in advance, so planning ahead is wise if you’re set on this experience.

Why This Tour Works Well

Based on glowing reviews, one of its biggest strengths is the knowledgeable and passionate guiding, which turns a simple walk into a fascinating lesson on local wildlife, culture, and the environment. Travelers consistently mention enjoying the stories, the animal track sightings, and the overall peacefulness of the snow-laden forest.

Another highlight is the scenic landscape—reviewers describe the snowy forest as “beautiful and peaceful,” with some mentioning the sun filtering through the trees during sunset, creating magical moments. Even if animals don’t show themselves, the landscape itself is enough to make this a memorable experience.

The inclusion of homemade snacks creates a cozy, authentic feel, setting this tour apart from more typical outdoor activities. It’s these small details that make the outing feel personal and special.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits anyone interested in easy, nature-based activities with an educational twist. It’s ideal for travelers who want to get outdoors without intense physical demands or complicated logistics. It’s particularly appealing to those curious about wildlife, local culture, and the Arctic landscape, especially if you enjoy a relaxed pace and small groups.

If you’re traveling with older children or teenagers, they’ll likely enjoy the storytelling and the chance to see animal tracks. But for younger kids or those seeking more adrenaline-pumping activities, other tours like dogsledding or northern lights excursions might be more fitting.

This is also a good choice if you’re in Kiruna for a short time and want a meaningful, scenic outing that won’t take up your entire day.

FAQs About the Snowshoe in a Winter Forest Tour

Do I need to have experience snowshoeing?
Not at all. The activity level is rated as “easy,” and the snowshoes are provided. The walk is comfortable for most, even if you’ve never tried snowshoeing before.

What should I wear?
Since no extra clothing is provided, dress according to the weather—think warm layers, waterproof outerwear, and sturdy boots. Being prepared helps you enjoy the walk without getting cold.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup from three central locations in Kiruna is included, with timings that allow you to meet comfortably before the tour starts at 10:00 am.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, covering a 2 to 2.5 km walk through the forest.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers snowshoes, a local guide, hot berry juice, traditional cookies, and a headlamp if needed.

Is this suitable for children?
The minimum age is 12, making it more appropriate for teenagers and adults interested in nature and cultural stories.

Will I see animals?
While wildlife sightings depend on luck, the guide’s ability to identify animal tracks and explain their behavior is a highlight for many travelers.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour generally runs in most weather conditions, but check the forecast and dress accordingly. The experience can be quite scenic in snow or even during a light snowstorm.

Can I cancel if needed?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

How many people typically join the tour?
Groups are limited to 8 participants, which makes for a cozy, personalized experience.

To sum it up, if you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic outing that combines gentle exercise, cultural insights, and the chance to see one of Europe’s most pristine winter landscapes, this snowshoe tour from Kiruna offers genuine value. Its small group setting, knowledgeable guide, and cozy snack breaks make it a memorable way to spend a few hours in the Arctic forest. Perfect for curious travelers who want to soak up the winter magic without overexerting themselves. Just remember to dress warmly and bring your sense of wonder—you’ll leave with stories and images you’ll cherish long after the snow melts.