Lapland in full colour
‘Ruska’ is a Finnish word describing the amazing colors taking over nature in the autumn. In Lapland, ruska is at its most vibrant around September and October and the explosion of yellows, oranges and reds is most definitely worth seeing with your own eyes. If you are planning for an outdoor adventure, the mildish weather and lack of mosquitoes also make autumn an ideal time to visit Lapland.
More than hiking?
The tradition to go for a long hike in Lapland around autumn is strong in Finland and a great way to enjoy the scenery at your own pace. If you, however, need something faster and more exciting, fear not, there are plenty of options.
For mountain biking enthusiasts, Lapland is the place to be. In and around all the popular ski resorts, there are also good biking routes for beginners and hard-core enthusiasts alike. You can choose from easy bike rides on marked roads, venture off-road and make the most of the hilly landscape or test your skills on rocky or tree root covered ground.
Some good areas to explore on a bike include the Pallas-Yllästunturi national park, where a mountain bike route runs along the Aakenus fell, Kulmakuru route in Saariselkä and Ruuhitunturi in Salla. If speed is of the essence to you, try Ylläs Bike Park. A lift takes you up a hill after which you can enjoy a dizzying 4km descent from the hill! There are various routes you can choose based on your experience.
If water is your element, try kayaking or canoeing to see the autumn colors from a new angle. For canoeing the Muonio area with several rivers and lakes is an excellent place to start. There are even some areas where you can do white river rafting if you’re in search of more endorphins. Inari and Saariselkä also have several water sport destinations with options for experienced paddlers as well as complete beginners.
Check out the wildlife
Make sure you have some time to see local wildlife with the backdrop of the ruska. Ranua Wildlife Park is one of the best places to see arctic wildlife with over 50 species and 200 individual animals. The environment is spacious and aims to give the animals the natural habitat they need. The area is vast and, in addition to the actual zoo, you'll find accommodation, a restaurant and wildlife safaris.
If you want to see animals in the real wild join a safari! You might spot a moose or two – and enjoy the ruska at the same time. Choose from several tour companies around Rovaniemi that offer wildlife safaris.
Ruska with a bit of added comfort
Lapland in autumn doesn't, however, need to be a nonstop outdoors experience. To recover from trekking, biking and exploring, you could sprinkle your stay with a bit of rest, relaxation and great food.
It is popular to book a glass igloo to admire the northern lights later in the winter, but a night in one is a magical experience in the autumn, too. You can see the colourful nature – without leaving your bed! You can find the glass igloos dotted around Lapland, and Visit Rovaniemi has listed them for your convenience.
Lapland’s dining scene has developed into a diverse and vibrant experience, offering moments where top-quality local ingredients and stunning natural landscapes blend seamlessly into one. Deatnu in Utsjoki combines the traditions of Sámi culture with modern cuisine, serving authentic flavors in a beautiful setting where large panoramic windows bring nature close. In Inari, Aanaar offers high-quality dishes made from local ingredients, where you can enjoy views of the rapids of the Juutua River.
Experience the magical autumn colours of Lapland – book your trip now!
The vibrant hues of autumn, fresh fell air, and unforgettable nature experiences await you in Lapland. Whether you’re hiking, cycling, or savoring local delicacies amidst breathtaking scenery, autumn Lapland offers something for every taste. Now is the perfect time to head into nature — relax in a glass igloo, admire the rushing rapids, or observe wildlife in their natural habitat. Make this autumn unforgettable by booking your trip to Lapland’s ruska season.
Finnair flies to multiple Lapland destinations via Helsinki several times a week.