Cross-Country Skiing in Finland 2024-2025

One classic Finnish way to spend time during long winters is cross-country skiing. This is a part of Finnish culture and an important means of transport for both adults and kids. Skiing to school is still very common in some communities.

Best Time to Visit Finland for Cross-Country Skiing

The skiing season in Finland lasts for about five months. In Lapland, this period is even longer and can last from 7 to 8 months. Although Finland is crowded with skiers during this season, there are still plenty of magical remote places for enjoying this favourite activity among stunning winter landscapes.

December to April is the ideal time to visit Finland for cross-country skiing. Lapland may have a longer skiing season, but careful planning is required for accommodation. The days are shorter in December, while March and April offer extended daylight hours and less cold temperatures.

The ski season in Lapland lasts seven to eight months, typically ranging from late October to early May. This duration is due to the subarctic climate, with the temperature and snowfall remaining stable longer, thus providing ideal skiing conditions to visitors. With a spectacle of the Northern Lights and captivating views, Lapland winter is an unforgettable experience.

Places for Cross-Country Skiing in Finland

Networks of perfect skiing tracks, most of which are lit at night, can be found throughout the country. The more than 186 miles (300 km) of tracks showcase a wide variety of opportunities like wildlife and bird watching, beautiful parks and forests, or even islands along frozen coastlines.

National Parks

Sipoonkorpi National Park holds one of the best ski tracks in Helsinki, situated outside the city. It features a range of loops with varied difficulty levels and passes through forests, hills, and lakes. One can visit Nuuksio National Park, which showcases stunning twisted forest trails and frozen lakes, or Paloheinä Recreational Centre, which has thrilling loops challenging even to professionals.

Pyhä Ski Resort

Lapland, Finland, is a skiing haven, especially popular at Pyhä Ski Resort and nearby Luosto village. These areas offer an impressive 93 miles (150 kilometers) of cross-country ski trails weaving through and around a national park, connecting both resorts. The trails lead you through Lapland's quiet, pristine wilderness, letting you experience the peaceful landscapes while visiting what is becoming one of the world’s most eco-friendly ski resorts.