Winter in Lapland

Winter in Lapland North lasts more than half the year, bringing snow, Arctic light and a wide range of winter experiences. In Northern Lapland, you can enjoy skiing, snowshoeing, husky and reindeer rides, snowmobiling, northern lights tours and peaceful moments in snowy fell landscapes. The region combines wilderness, national parks, family-friendly activities and local services throughout the long winter season.

Snow-covered trees in a frozen winter landscape in Northern Lapland.

Snow and the long winter season

Lapland North receives its first snowflakes in October, with permanent snow arriving in November. The Polar Night of December–January paints the landscape in mystical blue and pink tones. By March and April, the sun returns, days grow long and snow depths can reach nearly a metre — ideal months for outdoor adventures.

Lumen peittämä puu taipuu raskaan lumen painon alla talvisessa maisemassa, ja auringonvalo paistaa läpi ja heittää varjoja valkoiselle maalle.

Winter Activities for Every Traveller

Try cross-country skiing, snowboarding or snowshoeing — a new sport every day! Experience a husky or reindeer sleigh ride, feel the thrill of a snowmobile safari, or join an evening aurora hunt to learn night-sky photography. Lapland North is full of activities suitable for families, nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Siniseen takkiin ja keltaiseen pipoon pukeutunut henkilö istuu lumessa halaamassa ja suutelemassa husky-koiraa, kun toinen valkoinen kelkkakoira makaa heidän vieressään. Taustalla näkyy lunta ja aitaa.

Skiing and snowboarding in Saariselkä

Saariselkä is home to Europe’s northernmost ski resort, offering slopes for all skill levels across two fells. The Ski School welcomes beginners and advanced riders alike. The resort also features Finland’s longest toboggan run — over one kilometre — illuminated with aurora-inspired light art for an unforgettable winter thrill.

Explore Saariselkä ski
A vast, snowy landscape with ski slopes, chairlifts, and scattered trees under a bright blue sky. At Saariselkä Outdoor Resort, snow-covered hills stretch into the distance on a clear, sunny day.
A person stands on a snowy landscape at night, looking up at vibrant green and yellow northern lights swirling across a star-filled sky.

Northern Lights Above the Arctic

From early autumn to late winter, the Northern Lights dance across the northern sky. Lapland North, located directly under the aurora oval, is one of the best places on Earth to see them. Maximise your chances by joining a guided aurora excursion and witness nature’s most magical light show.

Read more about northern lights

Culture, accommodation and flavours of the North

Lapland North is the homeland of the Sámi, Europe’s only recognised Indigenous people. In Inari and Utsjoki, Sámi museums, cultural centres and local companies offer insight into living traditions. Stay in glass-roofed cabins, cosy cottages or hotels — and enjoy Arctic flavours from reindeer herders, clearwater lakes and nearby seas.

Explore services
Two people enjoy winter fun in deep snow outside a log cabin. One in a red coat and black hat stands smiling, while the other, dressed in black, kneels to toss snow. Pine trees and the cozy cabin complete the winter scene.