Seasons in Lapland

In Finnish Lapland, winter is significantly longer than other seasons. During early winter (November–December), daylight hours shorten as the polar night begins. The twilight reveals Lapland’s magical mystique, offering the perfect moment to experience the blue hour and the Northern Lights, perhaps on a moonlit ski tour with gliding snowshoes.

In midwinter (January–March), as the new year begins, the days gradually lengthen and the polar night fades. With each passing day, more light returns, creating a unique atmosphere found nowhere else. Embrace the crisp northern winter and enjoy ski slopes, cross-country trails, snowmobiling, or a husky safari. And remember, with the right clothing, you can always stay warm!

For snowy adventures, deep winter transforms Lapland into a true wonderland of ice and snow. This season is perfect for trying Lapland’s winter activities. As the brightening sunrays dance on soft powder snow, they turn Lapland into a glistening winter paradise. Put on your snowshoes—or gliding snowshoes designed for powder snow—and explore the frosty landscapes. Other exotic ways to experience winter include fatbiking on snowy trails, reindeer sleigh rides, husky sledding, or snowmobiling.

In early spring (March–April), the days last even longer, the brightness increases, and the weather begins to warm up. The ski slopes, cross-country trails, and winter routes remain in excellent condition, making this the perfect moment to soak in the sun’s warming rays on the snowy landscapes. The polar night fades, the crisp spring air glistens, and nature begins to awaken from its winter slumber. Although temperatures rise, late winter still offers ideal conditions to experience Lapland’s winter nature. Ice fishing on a wilderness lake, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, or snowmobiling on an electric snowmobile in pristine nature are excellent ways to disconnect from everyday life. In Northern Lapland, the sunny winter weather often lasts until late April. Breathe in the pure air, embrace the unique Lapland atmosphere, and let the first warm rays of spring sunshine on your face make late winter a truly magical time to experience Lapland.

Spring in Lapland (May–June) is a harmony for the senses. As spring arrives in Lapland, nature awakens in a beautiful transformation. The snow slowly melts, streams begin to glisten and murmur, and the sounds of birds grow stronger as migratory birds return with the increasing sunlight. The fresh scents of spring fill the air, signaling nature's preparation for the lush summer ahead.

Spring offers a unique opportunity to witness Lapland’s transition from winter’s deep slumber to vibrant summer life. As the snow recedes, birds return from the south, and northern wildlife emerges from hibernation.

With a rapidly progressing growing season, Lapland’s landscapes change strongly. Conifers and lichen reappear from beneath the melting snow, and trees burst into leaf. The contrast is striking—while southern Lapland may be in full bloom, the far north might still be covered in snow. This breathtaking transformation is a rare and unforgettable experience. It is amazing to witness the arrival of spring.

Summer in Lapland is truly magical. The northern summer can be divided into two distinct periods: the Midnight Sun season (June–July) and the harvest season (August–September).

Midnight sun (June–July)

During midsummer, Lapland experiences endless daylight, as the sun never sets below the horizon. This is the perfect time to venture into nature and witness this extraordinary phenomenon while enjoying the tranquil beauty of a summer night.

The nightless nights are an experience you will never forget. Under Lapland’s bright summer skies, you can feel nature all around you, bask in the sun’s warmth even at midnight, and embrace the cool, refreshing night air. The best way to enjoy the midnight sun is to climb to the top of the fells, where you’ll find an unforgettable spot to take in this breathtaking natural wonder.

Harvest Season (August–September)

As summer slowly transitions into autumn, the harvest season begins. The forests and fields are bursting with seasonal delicacies, made even richer in flavor by the long northern growing period. Ripe berries, mushrooms, and potatoes, among others, are used in delicious Lappish cuisine, with some carefully preserved for the coming winter.

With the harvest season also comes the return of another natural wonder—the Northern Lights, painting the night sky in their mesmerizing colors.

Autumn in Lapland is filled with breathtaking colors, transforming the landscape into a stunning masterpiece. The lush greens of summer fade, as nature prepares for the coming winter. Imagine hiking to the top of a fell, looking around, and breathing in the crisp and pure northern air.

Autumn colors (September)

The fall foliage in Lapland is breathtakingly beautiful. One of the best ways to enjoy nature’s transformation into a vibrant mix of colors is to go hiking in the wilderness or capture the beauty of the fells through photography.

Lapland’s national parks provide the perfect setting to experience late summer and early autumn. This is when nature showcases its most vivid colors. Autumn also brings the harvest season, as summer’s wild treasures are ready to be picked. Berries, mushrooms, and wild herbs are gathered from the forests, while fishing trips to rivers and lakes offer another way to enjoy nature’s bounty.

First Snow (October–November)

The first snow arrives in northern Lapland between October and November. A thin white layer gently covers the landscape, and temperatures drop below zero. Despite the cooling weather, this remains a great time for outdoor activities, as the sun still provides warmth during the day.

As the nights grow darker, it becomes the perfect season to witness one of nature’s greatest spectacles—the Northern Lights. This mesmerizing display in the sky is something everyone should experience at least once.