Saariselkä: Snowshoeing Tour in Urho Kekkonen National Park

If you’re looking to embrace the quiet, snowy wilderness of Finnish Lapland, a snowshoeing tour in Urho Kekkonen National Park might just be your answer. This experience, rated an impressive 4.9 out of 5 based on 26 reviews, offers a chance to wander off-trail and see the Arctic’s pristine landscape in a way that’s both accessible and deeply satisfying.

What stands out most about this tour is the guidance from knowledgeable local guides who know exactly where to find the best views and wildlife signs. Second, I love that it offers options—whether you’re after a quick 2-hour jaunt or a more leisurely 4-hour trek, there’s a pace suited for everyone.

One thing to keep in mind is the need for proper outdoor clothing, which isn’t included but is essential for staying warm. The tour’s flexible timing and small group size—limited to 10 participants—make it feel intimate and tailored, perfect for those who prefer a personal touch rather than a crowded excursion.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic Wilderness Experience: Walk on your own trails outside marked routes, making each journey feel uniquely yours.
• Guided Expert Insight: Guides like the ones praised in reviews can spot wildlife footprints and point out interesting natural features.
• Flexible Tour Durations: Choose from 2-hour, 4-hour, or evening tours, fitting different schedules and energy levels.
• All Equipment Included: Snowshoes and guidance are provided, removing any hassle of gear rental or prep.
• Warm Refreshments: A hot drink awaits at the end, providing a cozy finish to an invigorating outdoor adventure.
• Small Group Size: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personal guidance and a relaxed atmosphere.

Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure begins at Outdoor Expert Saariselkä, just a few steps from the actual national park border. This proximity makes it easy to find and minimizes travel time before hitting the snow. Meeting your guide here allows for a quick briefing, equipment check, and a friendly introduction to your small group.

Since the tour is flexible—lasting anywhere from 2 to 4 hours—you can plan the experience according to your interest and stamina. The guides are conscious of snow conditions and your group’s pace, often adjusting routes to ensure safety and enjoyment. This personal touch is a big plus; it means no one gets left behind or feels rushed.

The Experience: A Walk Into the Unknown

Once you set out, you’ll be walking on snow-covered trails that are less traveled, outside the designated routes. This is what makes the experience special—the chance to see the landscape as a local might find it, with snowy trees forming fantastic shapes and arctic wildlife leaving fascinating footprints in the snow.

Guides are typically fluent in English and Finnish, and their local knowledge enhances the experience, often pointing out signs of animals like reindeer, foxes, or even elusive Arctic hares. The guides’ enthusiasm and expertise shine through, and as one reviewer raved, they are “superb,” helping everyone get the most out of each step.

The Scenic Beauty and Wildlife Signs

What truly makes this tour memorable is the scenery. The snow-laden trees craft a fairy-tale setting, especially when the light hits the snow just right. The footprints of wildlife—sometimes small, sometimes large—add an element of intrigue, telling stories of creatures that have passed through earlier in the day.

You might find, as some guests did, that the footprints reveal markings of Arctic animals, offering a glimpse into the wild life that inhabits this frozen wilderness. Plus, the fresh air, the silence broken only by your footsteps and the occasional call of a distant bird, makes for an experience that feels both calming and invigorating.

Evening Snowshoeing: A Different Kind of Magic

The 2-hour evening tour offers a chance to experience the Arctic after sunset, with the possibility of catching the Northern Lights if conditions are right. Many reviewers have appreciated this option, describing it as a peaceful, almost spiritual encounter with nature. The quiet of the night, combined with the glow of a warm drink at the end, provides a cozy contrast to the daytime adventure.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This experience is suitable for both beginners and more experienced snowshoers. The guides tailor the pace and route to your comfort level, making it accessible no matter your fitness or experience. It’s especially appealing to those who love natural scenery, small-group adventures, and authentic wildlife tracking.

Those traveling with a sense of curiosity about Arctic wildlife or seeking a peaceful outdoor activity away from crowds will find this tour rewarding. It’s also excellent value considering the equipment, guidance, and the chance to explore unmarked trails in a national park renowned for its rugged beauty.

The Value: What’s Included and What You Get

For $85 per person, you receive top-quality snowshoes, professional guidance, and a warm drink to conclude your trek. The equipment ensures comfort and safety on snowy terrain, while the guide’s insights enhance your understanding of the landscape and its wildlife. The small group size guarantees attention and a more personalized experience, making this a worthwhile investment for nature lovers.

While you need to bring suitable outdoor clothing, this is a small price to pay for the chance to wander freely in one of the most pristine environments in Finland. Plus, the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance without penalty adds peace of mind.

The Real Benefit: Authenticity and Connection

What I find most appealing about this tour is its authenticity. You’re not just a passenger on a bus but a true explorer, walking where few others do. This is a chance to connect with the natural world on a quiet, personal level—something often missing from more commercialized tours.

The reviews emphasize the professionalism and friendliness of the guides, which can make all the difference. One reviewer, Ralf, noted, “Great tour, superb guide, fantastic scenery. We had a blast and can recommend the tour without reservation.” That kind of genuine enthusiasm speaks volumes about what you can expect.

Suitability and Who Should Consider This Experience

If you’re someone who enjoys outdoor adventures, appreciates quiet landscapes, or wants a more intimate experience in the Arctic, this snowshoeing tour is ideal. It does not require prior experience, so beginners can comfortably join, especially with guides adjusting the pace.

However, it’s best suited for those who are comfortable in winter outdoor clothing and willing to walk in snow for a few hours. If you’re traveling with people who dislike cold or physical activity, consider the duration and your comfort level beforehand.

In essence, this snowshoeing tour offers a genuine, low-key way to experience the silent beauty of Urho Kekkonen National Park. The combination of expert guides, unmarked trails, and the chance to see wildlife footprints makes it a meaningful adventure for nature lovers.

The inclusion of snowshoes and a warm drink adds to the ease and comfort, ensuring you can focus on the scenery and the moment. For travelers seeking a peaceful escape into Lapland’s winter wonderland, this tour provides excellent value and authentic charm.

It’s especially well-suited for those who prefer small groups, personalized attention, and outdoor experiences that go beyond the usual tourist spots. Whether you’re after a daytime adventure or a magical evening under the northern sky, this snowshoeing tour delivers quiet, scenic magic in one of Europe’s most stunning wilderness areas.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is suitable for beginners as guides adjust the pace and route to the group’s comfort level. Snowshoes and guidance are included to make it accessible.

What should I bring?
You need to bring your own outdoor clothing suitable for winter conditions. The tour provides snowshoes and guidance, so focus on dressing warmly and comfortably.

How long does the tour last?
You can choose between a 2-hour, 4-hour, or 2-hour evening tour. The exact timing depends on availability and snow conditions.

What does the tour include?
The price covers guidance in English, all necessary equipment (snowshoes), and a warm drink at the end of the trek.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for last-minute travel changes.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is Outdoor Expert Saariselkä, very close to the national park border, ensuring easy access and minimal transit time.

This snowshoeing experience in Urho Kekkonen National Park offers a rare chance to walk in Finnish Lapland’s quiet, snowy wilderness. It’s a perfect outing for those eager to see Arctic footprints, enjoy scenic views, and learn from guides who know this landscape intimately. Whether you’re after a short escape or a more extended trek, this tour combines natural beauty, expert guidance, and authentic Arctic adventure—all at a reasonable price.