7 Unmissable Hikes from Rovaniemi
Looking to explore the great outdoors during your trip to Finnish Lapland? Rovaniemi, the capital of the Arctic, is surrounded by breathtaking nature trails, scenic viewpoints, and hidden wilderness areas. In this guide, we’ve listed 7 unmissable hikes from Rovaniemi, ranging from easy day trips to more adventurous treks — perfect for discovering Lapland’s forests, fells, canyons, and wildlife in summer and autumn.
1. GO FOR A GENTLE HALF-DAY TRIP TO OUNASVAARA
Ounasvaara is the iconic hill of Rovaniemi, offering locals and visitors a peaceful escape into nature just a stone’s throw from the city. The Ounasvaara hiking trail is perfect for a half-day trip thanks to its easy accessibility — the trailhead is located only 3 km from the city centre. You can reach it by foot or by bike via pedestrian and cycling paths, or hop on bus number 9, which brings you close to the base of the hill.
The trail winds through lush, herb-rich forests along the ridge of the hill and leads to a lean-to shelter equipped with a fireplace — a typical spot where locals stop for a break. At the top, you’ll also find a wooden observation tower offering sweeping views over the surrounding forests and the city of Rovaniemi. It’s here, by the shelter and tower, that many hikers light a fire and enjoy a well-deserved snack.
To experience this Finnish tradition, bring along some food to grill over the open fire — sausages, rye bread, and the beloved local cheese leipäjuusto are popular choices. Firewood is available next to the shelter, but don’t forget to bring your own knife and firestarter or matches to get the fire going.
The trail is about 5 km long and doesn’t feature any steep climbs, making it suitable for anyone looking for light exercise and a peaceful moment in nature. Remember to bring water to stay hydrated during your outing.
2. GO BERRY PICKING IN THE FOREST
Berry picking in Rovaniemi is one of the most authentic and rewarding activities to enjoy during summer and autumn in Finnish Lapland. From July through September, the forests around the city come alive with edible treasures like cloudberries (lakka), bilberries (the local, wilder and tastier version of blueberries), and lingonberries (puolukka). These wild berries are easy to identify, even for beginners, and grow in abundance — especially bilberries, which often cover the forest floor by the hundreds.
A local favorite spot for berry picking is Pöyliövaara, located just south of Rovaniemi city centre. This peaceful forested hill is ideal for a half-day nature escape, where locals return year after year to forage berries and enjoy the scenic trails. Visitors can rent a bike in Rovaniemi and ride to the edge of the forest before heading in on foot to pick berries at their own pace.
Alternatively, for a deeper experience, guided berry picking tours are available. A local guide will lead you off the beaten path to hidden foraging areas and share their knowledge of edible berries and mushrooms. You will also be able to transform your harvest on the spot — like making fresh bilberry juice over an open fire, or preparing wild mushroom omelets at a rustic forest shelter. It’s a unique way to connect with Lapland’s nature and traditions while enjoying local flavors straight from the forest.
3. GO HIKING IN VIKAKÖNGÄS
Vikaköngäs, located just 25 km north of Rovaniemi, is one of the best spots for an easy yet rewarding hike in Lapland. The trails here offer stunning views of river rapids, ancient rock formations, and peaceful forest landscapes. One of the highlights of the area is the observation tower, which provides panoramic views over the vast wilderness of the Arctic Circle Hiking Area — perfect for nature photography.
Visitors can explore Vikaköngäs independently, following well-marked trails and wooden boardwalks that make the hike accessible for most fitness levels. For a deeper connection with the surroundings, you can also join a guided hiking tour led by a local nature expert. This tour offers fascinating insights into Lapland’s flora, geology, and ecosystems, turning a simple walk into a meaningful outdoor experience. During the break, the guide will demonstrate how to make a fire using a firesteel and serve you a traditional local snack and warm drink, enjoyed in true Finnish style by the fire.
Whether you’re looking for scenic views, peaceful forest trails, or educational nature walks, Vikaköngäs is definitely a top hiking destination near Rovaniemi.
4. GO BIRDWATCHING IN VAATTUNKIKÖNGÄS
The Mire Trail from Vaattunkiköngäs is a must-do for nature and birdwatching lovers visiting Rovaniemi. Located just 25 km from the city and accessible by bus, this hike takes you through some of Lapland’s most peaceful and diverse landscapes — including pine forests, spruce mires, poor fens, and small forest islets.
Along the trail, you’ll find a birdwatching tower offering great views over the wetlands. Keep your eyes open for iconic northern species like the Siberian Jay, capercaillie, and even the majestic Golden Eagle soaring above. The hilltops along the trail are perfect for spotting wildlife and taking in wide views of Lapland’s wilderness — so don’t forget your camera!
You can explore the Mire Trail on your own, or for a more immersive experience, book a guided birdwatching tour with a local expert (flexible tour that can be arranged from other locations across the Arctic Circle region). Your guide will help you spot and identify different bird species, explain the unique ecosystem of the area, and share stories about Lapland’s nature and wildlife.
Looking to extend your hike? The Mire Trail connects to nearby Vikaköngäs, making it easy to turn your adventure into a longer day trip or even an overnight trek. We’ve created a suggested itinerary to help you plan — feel free to check it out!
5. HIKING IN PYHÄ-LUOSTO NATIONAL PARK FROM ROVANIEMI
Located about 1h30 by car from Rovaniemi, Pyhä-Luosto National Park is one of the oldest national parks in Finland and a top destination for hiking in summer and autumn. The park stretches across an ancient mountain chain, offering a mix of rugged fells, deep pine forests, scenic gorges, and peaceful mires. In autumn, the landscapes explode with color during the famous ruska season, making it a photographer’s dream.
You can choose to explore the park in two ways. Option 1: Take a day tour from Rovaniemi to visit the Amethyst Mine, enjoy panoramic views over the fells and dig your own lucky stone. Option 2 : Adventurous hikers can join a 3-day, 2-night self-guided trek across the park (DIY package including equipment rental), perfect for those seeking freedom with support. Anyway, both options allow you to experience the best of Lapland’s natural beauty!
6. HIKE IN KOROUOMA CANYON IN SUMMER/AUTUMN
Located about 1h30 by car from Rovaniemi, Korouoma Canyon is a breathtaking nature reserve in Finnish Lapland, known for its dramatic cliffs, deep gorge landscapes, and untouched wilderness. This 30-km-long canyon offers some of the most scenic hikes in the region, with trails winding through ancient rock formations, dense forests, and along the canyon floor.
You can explore Korouoma on your own, or join a guided 5 km hiking tour from Rovaniemi, ideal for those who want to learn more about the area’s geology, plants, and wildlife. The tour includes transportation, a relaxing break by the fire, and a traditional Finnish snack — all set in the peaceful atmosphere of the reserve. On the way back, you can also admire the Auttiköngäs waterfalls and enjoy the sound of rushing water surrounded by pure Arctic nature.
Whether you’re visiting in summer or autumn, Korouoma Canyon is a must-visit destination for hikers and nature lovers looking for a memorable day trip from Rovaniemi.
7. HIKE IN OULANKA NATIONAL PARK FROM ROVANIEMI
Discover the raw beauty of Oulanka National Park, one of Finland’s most iconic protected areas, known for its deep river canyons, hanging bridges, waterfalls, and the famous Karhunkierros Trail. Oulanka offers a true wilderness experience and is a top destination for hiking in summer and autumn, especially during the colorful ruska season.
For an unforgettable adventure with smooth logistics, you can join a 2-day guided tour from Rovaniemi that includes a hike through some of the park’s most scenic trails. The tour is designed to immerse you in Arctic nature while keeping things simple: transport, meals, and accommodations are all included.
The second highlight of the trip is a bear watching experience near the eastern border, where you’ll observe wild brown bears safely from a specialized hide — a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness Finland’s wildlife in its natural habitat. This tour is perfect for nature lovers seeking both stunning landscapes and authentic Arctic wildlife encounters during their stay in Lapland.
That’s it! We hope you enjoyed reading this blogpost.
If you have any question, feel free to contact us!
We will be glad to help you plan your summer and autumn trip to Rovaniemi!
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