
Winter Adventure in Oulanka
Frozen Rapids & Pancakes by the Fire
Quick info
Location: Oulanka National Park
Duration: 3 h + 30 min transfer each way
Distance: 1-8 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Group size: Private 1-8, guaranteed departure
Min. age: 6
Languages: English & Finnish
Includes: Guide, snowshoes and poles, campfire pancakes, wildberry juice, transfers, park fee
Pick-up: Ruka area and Kuusamo centre
Step into the heart of winter and explore the breathtaking beauty of Oulanka National Park on this snowshoeing adventure! From frozen rivers to snow-covered forests and the icy rapids of Myllykoski, Aallokkokoski, and Jyrävä, this tour takes you to some of the park’s most stunning sights.
As you wander through this Arctic wonderland, your guide will lead you to the best viewpoints, where you can hear the rush of icy waters cutting through the stillness of winter. The snowshoe trail follows the riverbank and weaves into the peaceful, wintry forest, revealing the untouched beauty of the north.
After exploring the wilderness, we’ll gather around a cozy campfire to enjoy freshly made pancakes and hot drinks—a perfect treat after a day of adventure. Whether you’re new to snowshoeing or a seasoned explorer, this tour offers the perfect mix of activity, scenery, and relaxation.
What to Expect:
-
Trek through Oulanka’s pristine wilderness, from icy rapids to serene snowy forests.
-
Enjoy a campfire break with freshly made pancakes and warm drinks.
-
Routes tailored to your preferences, with snowshoes or with light crampons/spikes.
-
Learn about the park’s unique nature and winter landscapes from your local guide.
Tour Details:
-
Duration: 3 hours + 25-minute transfers each way from Ruka, 40-minute from Kuusamo Tropiikki.
-
Distance: 4–8 km, adapted to conditions and your group’s preferences.
-
Difficulty: Moderately easy, with some stairs. Suitable for anyone comfortable walking the same distance.
Private Tour Just for You: This experience is exclusive to you and your group, making it a personal and flexible adventure. Want to explore at a different time? Let us know, and we’ll arrange it!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a private tour?
Yes. This tour is exclusively for you and your group (1–8 persons). Want to explore at a different time? Let us know and we will arrange it.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 6. In cold weather, always plan carefully with children: in severe frost we cannot stay outside for very long, and we adjust the route and length together with you.
Do I need snowshoeing experience?
No. The route is moderately easy, with some stairs, and suitable for anyone comfortable walking the same distance. The distance is 4–8 km, adapted to conditions and your group.
What equipment is provided?
We provide snowshoes or light crampons/ice grips (slip guards), depending on the route, and poles.
What should I wear?
Warm layers, a windproof outer layer, winter boots, a hat and gloves. If you need winter clothing, see our Rent Winter Clothing page. You can also read our winter clothing guide.
Where do you pick us up?
In the Ruka area (up to 5 km from Ruka Valley and Ruka Village) and in Kuusamo centre, or you can meet us at the trailhead.
What do we eat? Can you take special diets into account?
We enjoy freshly made pancakes and warm drinks at a campfire, and our food always features plenty of local ingredients and northern flavours. Special diets are no problem: please tell us at least 3 days in advance.
Can I change my date?
Yes. Date changes are free when requested more than 7 days before the tour, subject to availability.
Contact us: +358 50 5606 633 | guide@mytrail.fi
This experience is created by MyTrail (MunPolku in Finnish). Discover more trails at mytrailfinland.com.
