Skiing and Snowboarding in Finland 2024-2025

Finland offers a unique skiing and snowboarding experience, set amidst the enchanting Arctic landscape of Lapland. While the country may not have towering alpine peaks, it more than makes up for it with its serene atmosphere, high-quality slopes, and opportunities to enjoy skiing under the magical Northern Lights. With plenty of advanced runs and off-piste terrain for experienced skiers, Finnish ski resorts are particularly appealing to families and beginner skiers, with gentle slopes, excellent facilities, and a wide range of winter activities.

Skiing Season in Finland

Finland has a really long snow season that starts in November and lasts for about six months. In the northern parts of the country, you can enjoy snowy weather till May. This is a perfect country for winter enthusiasts. The best time to ski is from December to early March, when the snow is most reliable, and the landscape is transformed into a pristine winter wonderland. During this time, temperatures can drop significantly, often ranging between 14°F (-10°C) and -22°F (-30°C) in Lapland, so skiers need to be prepared for cold weather. However, the colder temperatures contribute to excellent snow quality and powder-like conditions on the slopes.

Spring is actually the most popular period for skiing in Lapland. You can enjoy your rides till the beginning of May with guaranteed snow, frozen lakes, and lots of sunshine. However, the resorts might get busy during spring break or Easter holidays. For those looking to avoid crowds, January and February are the quietest months, though daylight hours are shorter.

Levi

Levi is Finland’s most popular and largest ski resort, located in the heart of Lapland, with season running from November to May. It offers a fantastic range of slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all levels, with 27 miles (43 km), including 15 green, 18 blue, 4 red, and 6 black runs. Levi is particularly well-known for its modern facilities, reliable snow conditions, and variety of activities beyond skiing, such as snowshoeing and snowmobiling. Levi also has a lively après-ski scene with numerous bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. Popular spots include Bar Ihku and Hullu Poro, where you can enjoy drinks and live music after a day on the slopes. Levi also offers the chance to witness the Northern Lights, which can often be seen from the slopes, creating a magical skiing experience under the aurora borealis. A day pass costs around €50, and a six-day pass is approximately €230 for adults. Equipment rental for skis or snowboards is available, with full gear sets (including boots and poles) costing around €35-40 per day.

Ylläs

Ylläs, also located in Lapland, is the largest ski area in Finland in terms of vertical drop and piste length. With 39 miles (63 km) of pistes, including the country’s longest slope at 2 mi (3 km), Ylläs is perfect for those seeking a more adventurous skiing or snowboarding experience. The resort is spread across two villages, Ylläsjärvi and Äkäslompolo, offering a wide variety of slopes, from gentle beginner trails to challenging black runs. Après-Ski focuses on relaxation in cozy cabins and traditional Finnish saunas rather than nightlife. A day pass costs around €48, with a six-day pass available for approximately €220. Equipment rental is available in both villages, with prices similar to those at Levi, around €35 per day for a full set.

Pyhä-Luosto

For those seeking a quieter and more authentic Lapland skiing experience, Pyhä-Luosto is an excellent choice. Located near the Pyhä-Luosto National Park, this resort is ideal for nature lovers and families. It offers 9 mi (14 km) of well-groomed pistes, with an emphasis on beginner and intermediate-friendly runs. The smaller crowds and peaceful atmosphere make it a great destination for those looking to escape the busier resorts. The season at Pyhä-Luosto runs from November to April, with great snow conditions due to its location further north. A day pass at Pyhä costs around €44, and a six-day pass is about €210. Rentals: Equipment rental prices are similar to other Finnish resorts, averaging €30-35 per day.

Ruka

Ruka, located in eastern Finland, is one of the country’s most famous ski resorts and is known for its long season, which often starts as early as October. Ruka is a great family destination with its compact size and easy access to slopes right from the village. The resort offers 22 mi (35 km) of pistes, with a good mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs. Ruka’s ski season starts in October and can extend into early May, offering one of the longest ski seasons in Europe. A day pass costs around €49, and a six-day pass is approximately €225. Equipment rental for skis or snowboards costs around €30-35 per day, with plenty of rental shops located within the resort. Ruka has a lively but family-friendly après-ski scene. The Piste Bar and Ruka Peak offer great spots to enjoy a drink while taking in views of the snow-covered landscape.

Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Finnish resorts provide a full winter experience. Activities such as husky sledding, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and reindeer safaris are commonly available, making Finland a winter wonderland that offers much more than just great slopes. Finland’s ski resorts are also known for their well-maintained infrastructure, modern lifts, and shorter queues, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a peaceful, crowd-free winter holiday.