Best time to travel to Finland

Tykky in Riisitunturi National Park in Finland

Enjoy the magical Finnish winter in the place from a fairytale with snowy spruces

Best time: January–April

Tykky in Riisitunturi National Park
Tykky in Riisitunturi National Park
Tykky in Riisitunturi National Park

Riisitunturi National Park is an amazing mountainous area with large hillside swamps. It covers the territory of 77 square kilometers in the southern part of Finnish Lapland, near Posio. You’ll find here the protected wetlands of Karitunturi Fell, picturesque hanging swamps, beautiful Lakes Kitkajärvet and stunning forest landscape of Posio. The park is a perfect place to enjoy the nature during any season, but you’ll find some of the most stunning views during winter. The 'tykky' phenomenon is about the trees heavily covered with the snow so that they bend under its weight.

The snow coat is really thick and covers everything around. The trees look like high snow-covered cones. This is also the time to meet some reindeer searching for food. You should be an experienced hiker or have a good guide if you plan to have a snowshoeing expedition or enjoy some cross-country skiing in the forest. It is really wild and remote with difficult terrain and some places without phone coverage. But you can also take the easier skiing track, which takes you from the parking lot of Korpihilla Café to the only hut on top of Riisitunturi. This 7 km trek can be experienced from mid-January till late April.

The Finish Lapland features a two-month long polar night, called kaamos. This period starts in November and during it the sun doesn’t rise above the horizon. The white snow is the only bright thing you see around. But this is also a magical period, when you can enjoy colorful shades, bright stars and stunning Northern Lights.

Practical info

When is the best time to visit Riisitunturi National Park?

You can plan your visit to Riisitunturi National Park between January and April to witness the scenic beauty of heavily snow-covered trees. You can witness the 'tykky' phenomenon between -10°C and -35°C, creating a picturesque landscape. During this period, you can enjoy various outdoor winter activities such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and meet the reindeer that inhabit the park. Show more

Where exactly is Riisitunturi National Park located?

Riisitunturi National Park situated in Finnish Lapland, in the southern part, is spread across 77 square kilometers and is close to Posio city. You can easily access the park from either Rovaniemi or Oulu via well-maintained roads. Posio is approximately about 100 kilometers from Rovaniemi and 170 kilometers from Oulu. Show more

What is the 'tykky' phenomenon, and when can you experience it in the park?

One of the most beautiful natural phenomena, the 'tykky,' is the snow-covered trees' sight that gives the appearance of snowy cones. You can witness this phenomenon in Riisitunturi National Park during Finnish winter, particularly between January and April. During this period, you get to enjoy winter activities like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and other outdoor activities, in addition to seeing the 'tykky.' Show more

Are there any dangerous animals in the park?

Riisitunturi National Park is relatively safe for visitors and does not have any dangerous animals like bears. However, the park is home to reindeer, foxes, wolves, and different bird species. Therefore, it is advisable to maintain a safe distance, especially when hiking alone, and ensure to follow all safety precautions, rules and regulations, and warnings of possible wildlife presence. Show more

What kind of activities can you do during the kaamos period in the park?

The kaamos period in Riisitunturi National Park starts from November, which is the polar night lasting for two months. During this period, you can view the Aurora Borealis, thanks to the park's location away from light pollution. In addition, the low sunlight creates a serene and peaceful atmosphere, making it different but captivating. You can also enjoy outdoor activities such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and other winter sports while enjoying the natural winter scenery. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin