Ski Trekking under the Northern Lights
Ski Trekking under the Northern Lights in Lapland
Ski Trekking under the Northern Lights in Lapland
Ski Trekking under the Northern Lights in Rovaniemi
Ski Trekking under the Northern Lights in Rovaniemi
Night Ski Trekking adventure in Lapland
Night Ski Trekking adventure in beautiful Arctic wilderness
Night Ski Trekking adventure in beautiful Arctic wilderness
Northern Lights in Rovaniemi, Lapland
Northern Lights in Rovaniemi, Lapland
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Ski Trekking under the Northern Lights

(5)
Rovaniemi, Finland
SkiingAdventure ToursNature Tours

About this activity

Glide through pristine Arctic wilderness on backcountry skis while chasing the Northern Lights in Finnish Lapland. This 3.5-hour guided night expedition combines accessible off-trail skiing with prime aurora-viewing opportunities, including a traditional campfire break with Finnish refreshments in the heart of winter nature.

There is no better way to explore untouched parts of Arctic nature than backcountry skiing! With your professional guide you head away from Rovaniemi into the pristine nature of Lapland! The tour gives you a good chance to observe Northern Lights if they appear, as the locations we visit are well away from Rovaniemi.

Backcountry skiing, is a great way to explore snow covered Lapland. Unlike alpine skiing and cross-country skiing, which are undertaken on groomed trails, backcountry skiing is more accessible as you require no specific boots and allows you to get out in the immediate wilderness easily. As the skis are equipped with skin on the bottom, they allow you to go uphill and downhill without excessive speed. Like snowshoeing, it does not require much practice to get used to the gear and techniques to slide on deep snow making it very comfortable and easy to use, even for beginners!

Unique Night Expedition with a solid chance to see the Northern Lights!

Your guide will choose a location that best fits the level and needs of the group, but also that allows you to get a good chance to see Northern Lights if they appear. They will also provide you with safety instructions and teach you some techniques on how to use the skis in fresh snow. Refreshments and a typical Finnish campfire snack will be provided halfway, as your guide will light a fire to keep you warm. This is a great moment for you to learn more about the Northern Lights, life in the Arctic and local nature.

This tour lasts 3 hours and 30 minutes, which includes the transportation from/to Rovaniemi, the campfire snack and the skiing time in nature (around 90-120 minutes depending on your level). This tour is a good alternative for those who want to catch the Northern Lights and have a sense for adventure. The tour will be running in any weather conditions – even if there is a lower chance of seeing the Northern Lights, you will still enjoy a great skiing experience in the wilderness!

In all our activities, our groups are limited to 8 people maximum. It is very important for us to provide you with the best experience possible, and avoid mass tourism. This way, your guide will know you better and will be able to address all your needs and answer your questions. As we usually say – the smaller the group, the bigger the experience!

Highlights

  • Backcountry skiing in untouched Lapland wilderness away from resort crowds
  • Strong chance to witness Northern Lights from remote, dark-sky locations
  • No experience needed — skis with skins make uphills and downhills manageable for beginners
  • Warm campfire break with traditional Finnish snacks and hot drinks mid-tour
  • Professional guide teaches techniques and shares Arctic knowledge and local insights
  • Guides choose routes based on group ability and real-time aurora forecasts

Insider tips

  • Dress in thick thermal layers and waterproof outer wear; you'll be stationary during aurora-hunting windows and heat loss is rapid in Arctic temperatures
  • Ask your guide about the best aurora forecasting apps before departure to manage expectations realistically
  • The campfire moment is ideal for photography — tripod highly recommended if you want sharp aurora shots
  • Tours run year-round, but December–February offers longest nights and statistically best aurora activity

Good to know

  • No skiing experience or special boots required; gear and instruction provided by guide
  • Meet point and exact departure time will be confirmed post-booking; typically departs Rovaniemi area in early evening
  • Bring: waterproof gloves, warm hat, insulated boots, camera/phone with charged battery (cold drains them quickly)
  • Tour operates in all weather conditions; aurora sightings depend on clear skies and solar activity (not guaranteed)
  • Suitable for ages roughly 8+; children ski at adapted pace with parental supervision

Who it's for

Aurora hunters and Northern Lights photographers seeking remote viewing spotsAdventure-seekers with little or no skiing experience wanting accessible backcountry explorationFamilies and mixed-ability groups (guide adapts routes and pace to group level)Winter nature enthusiasts wanting immersive Arctic wilderness experience beyond typical tours

Best time to visit

December to February offers the longest polar nights and highest aurora frequency, though tours run year-round. Evening departures (typically 18:00–20:00) position you to ski into peak aurora hours after midnight, with the campfire break timed to maximize viewing opportunities.

Frequently asked questions

From
€119
per person