Ice Climbing in Finland 2024-2025

In Finland, where towering mountain ranges are absent, ice climbing opportunities are defined by the unique beauty of its frozen waterfalls, streams, and rugged cliff faces.

Ice Climbing Season

The ice climbing season can change from year to year, as it is said to run from November through early April, but it is not always so. In December, at the very least, you'll definitely be able to enjoy your favorite activity. Still, it's wise to validate exact dates with nearby tour companies before making plans.

Pyhä-Luosto National Park

Pyhä-Luosto National Park, located in the heart of Finnish Lapland, offers breathtaking landscapes for adventurers and nature lovers. Deep gorges cut through ancient, rugged hills, where visitors can hike through pristine old-growth forests and ascend to windswept fell-tops. The park is bathed in stunning light displays, from the Northern Lights in winter to the Midnight Sun in summer, creating a magical atmosphere.

For ice climbers, Pyhä is home to the Tajukangas Ice Fall, a 30-meter-high frozen waterfall that transforms into an impressive ice climbing wall during the winter. This natural marvel offers an exhilarating climbing experience and, at its summit, rewards adventurers with sweeping views. Visiting Tajukangas in the evening adds an extra layer of enchantment, as colorful spotlights illuminate the ice, mimicking the ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights.

Korouoma Canyon

Korouoma Canyon stands as Finland's premier destination for ice climbing, offering a variety of frozen waterfalls that attract climbers from around the world. Among the most prominent falls are Ruskea virta, a stunning 60-meter cascade, and Mammutti, which is particularly popular with beginners due to its manageable challenges. The number and structure of climbable waterfalls in Korouoma can vary significantly each winter, influenced by seasonal rainfall and freezing conditions.

The most frequently used route to access these icy formations begins at the Saukkovaara parking area. From there, climbers descend into the canyon, where the impressive Ruskea virta waterfall can be admired from across the valley. All waterfalls within Korouoma are open for climbing, making it a versatile and inclusive destination for enthusiasts of all skill levels.

Other Activities

In addition to ice climbing, Posio offers a wide range of winter activities for visitors. Explore the snowy landscape through snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, enjoy the thrill of snowmobiling, or marvel at the breathtaking beauty of the Northern Lights, a spectacle that can often be seen in the clear winter skies. These activities make Posio a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Nuuksio National Park

Nuuksio National Park, located just a 45-minute drive from Helsinki, is an ideal destination for single-day adventures and sightseeing. It offers visitors a chance to escape into pristine wilderness and enjoy the quintessential Finnish landscape, all within proximity to the capital.

Rock climbing and rope descents are permitted only at Pitkäjärvi and the easternmost Kolmoislammi, while ice climbing is allowed throughout the park, making it a popular spot for winter sports enthusiasts. In the colder months, skiing is the best way to explore the park's vast terrain. Although the park itself does not have maintained ski trails, well-kept routes can be found nearby in recreational areas managed by the cities of Helsinki and Espoo.

Guided Ice Climbing Tours

Tackling challenging ice-climbing routes in the Arctic requires advanced skills, proper training, and specialized equipment, making these spots inaccessible without prior experience or guidance. For less experienced adventurers, guided ice climbing excursions offer not only the necessary safety and technical instruction but also insights into surviving and navigating the harsh Arctic environment. In Finland, visitors can choose from a wide range of guided tours to suit their preferences and interests.