Oulanka National Park offers a truly unique winter adventure, as adventurers strap on snowshoes and explore its iconic frozen rapids. From the thundering Myllykoski to the mesmerizing Jyrävä, the park’s majestic landscapes come alive with the power of cascading water frozen in time. After trekking through snow-covered forests, participants can warm up by a cozy campfire, indulging in freshly made pancakes as they learn about the resilience of life in this northern wilderness. What awaits beyond the frozen rapids is a journey of discovery and awe.
Key Points
- Explore the iconic frozen rapids of Oulanka National Park, including Myllykoski, Aallokkokoski, and Jyrävä, on a private snowshoeing excursion.
- Experience the serene beauty of the snow-covered forests and icy landscapes while hiking on a 4-8 km guided trek.
- Enjoy a campfire experience with locally-made pancakes and stories about life in the northern wilderness.
- Discover the untamed power and natural splendor of the region through guided tours and discussions about the local ecosystem.
- Participate in a moderately easy snowshoeing adventure with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour Overview
This private snowshoeing excursion in Oulanka National Park lasts 3.5 hours, including 25-minute transfers each way from Ruka.
Priced from $206.62 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can reserve their spot and pay later.
The moderately easy route covers 4-8 km, with highlights including guided tours of iconic icy rapids, exploring frozen rivers and snow-covered forests, and enjoying pancakes by the campfire while learning about life in the north.
Looking for more options in Northern Ostrobothnia? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins with pickups from select locations in Ruka and Kuusamo, including Holiday Club Kuusamo, Ruka Ski Resort, and RukaValley Ski-Inn.
The tour begins with pickups from select locations in Ruka and Kuusamo, including Holiday Club Kuusamo, Ruka Ski Resort, and RukaValley Ski-Inn.
Guided by a knowledgeable local, participants explore iconic icy rapids, including Myllykoski, Aallokkokoski, and Jyrävä. The route takes them through frozen rivers and snow-covered forests, offering a chance to:
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Appreciate the serene, untouched beauty of the Oulanka National Park
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Hear captivating stories about life in the northern wilderness
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Indulge in pancakes made from local ingredients and a warm wildberry drink by the campfire
The moderately easy 4-8 km route is adaptable to current conditions.
Snowshoeing Experience
As participants don the snowshoes and adjust the ice crampons, they’ll feel a sense of anticipation for the frozen adventure that lies ahead.
Guided by an expert, they’ll traverse the iconic icy rapids of Myllykoski, Aallokkokoski, and Jyrävä.
Trekking through snow-blanketed forests, they’ll discover the serene beauty of the Oulanka National Park.
Along the way, they’ll enjoy pancakes cooked over an open campfire and warm themselves with a hot wildberry drink as they listen to stories about life in the northern wilderness.
The moderately easy 4-8 km route can be adapted to suit current conditions.
Iconic Frozen Rapids
Towering ice formations flank the powerful rapids as snowshoers explore Oulanka National Park‘s iconic frozen waterways.
Carved by the relentless flow of water, these majestic rapids captivate visitors with their raw beauty:
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Myllykoski’s thundering cascade, its icy cliffs rising high above the snow-covered banks.
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Aallokkokoski’s swirling eddies, where the river twists and turns through a maze of frozen waves.
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Jyrävä’s dramatic drop, its frozen curtain cascading down to the snow-dusted rocks below.
Snowshoers traverse these winter wonderlands, marveling at the region’s untamed power and natural splendor.
More Great Tours NearbyForested Landscapes
Winding trails carve through the snow-blanketed forests of Oulanka National Park, offering snowshoers a glimpse into the enchanting winter landscapes.
Towering pines and spruces stand sentry, their branches laden with fluffy white snow.
Snowshoe prints dot the pristine landscape, leading explorers deeper into the tranquil woodlands.
Sunlight filters through the canopy, casting a warm glow on the powdery snow.
Elk and wolverine tracks criss-cross the path, hinting at the diverse wildlife that calls this wintry wonderland home.
The silence is broken only by the crunching of snow underfoot and the occasional call of a bird.
Campfire Treats
After a brisk hike through the snow-covered forests, the group gathered around the crackling campfire.
The guide skillfully prepared pancakes, using local ingredients, and served them piping hot. As the group indulged in the sweet treats, they were captivated by the guide’s stories about life in the north:
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The resilience of the local wildlife, adapting to the harsh winter conditions.
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The importance of building community and sharing resources in remote areas.
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The reverence for the natural landscape and the need to preserve it.
The campfire experience left the group feeling nourished, both physically and culturally.
What to Expect
The snowshoeing adventure through Oulanka National Park promises an exhilarating exploration of the region’s iconic icy rapids.
The snowshoeing adventure through Oulanka National Park promises an exhilarating exploration of the region’s iconic icy rapids.
Guided by an expert, guests will embark on a 4-8 km trek, traversing frozen rivers and snow-covered forests. Along the way, they’ll discover the Myllykoski, Aallokkokoski, and Jyrävä rapids, marveling at the frozen spectacle.
To warm up, you will enjoy pancakes and hot wildberry drinks by the campfire, while learning about life in the north.
The route is moderately easy, with snowshoes, ice crampons, and poles provided for comfort and safety.
Booking and Details
To book the private snowshoeing excursion in Oulanka National Park, visitors can reserve their spot online and pay later. The adventure is priced from $206.62 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Key details include:
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The 3.5-hour tour includes transfers from Ruka, with pickup locations at Holiday Club Kuusamo, Ruka Ski Resort, and RukaValley Ski-Inn.
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Equipment like snowshoes, ice crampons, and poles are provided, along with a hot wildberry drink and pancakes cooked over a campfire.
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The moderately easy route covers 4-8 km, tailored to current conditions, with a live guide available in English and Finnish.
Common Questions
Can I Request a Private Tour Just for My Group?
Yes, this snowshoeing tour can be arranged as a private excursion for your group. The tour provider offers the flexibility to customize the experience based on your group’s preferences and pace.
How Difficult Is the Snowshoeing Terrain?
The snowshoeing terrain is moderately easy, with a 4-8 km route that’s adaptable to current conditions. The route can accommodate participants’ pace and preferences, making it suitable for those with varying snowshoeing experience.
Can I Bring My Own Snowshoes?
You can bring your own snowshoes, but the tour provides equipment like snowshoes, ice crampons, and poles. The terrain is moderately easy, and the route can be adjusted based on participant preferences and current conditions.
Are the Snowshoes and Crampons Provided in Good Condition?
The snowshoes and crampons provided are well-maintained and suitable for the tour. They’ll ensure participants can safely explore the frozen landscapes. The gear is included in the tour price, so there’s no need to bring your own.
What Happens if the Weather Suddenly Turns Bad?
If the weather turns bad, the tour guide will adjust the route and pace accordingly. They’ll prioritize safety and ensure participants remain comfortable. The guide is experienced in navigating changing winter conditions and will make necessary modifications to the itinerary.
The Sum Up
Oulanka National Park’s snowshoeing adventure offers a unique opportunity to explore its stunning frozen rapids and take in the captivating beauty of the northern wilderness. From trekking through snow-covered forests to indulging in warm local treats by a cozy campfire, this guided tour promises an unforgettable experience that showcases the resilience and wonder of life in the Finnish wilderness.
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