Located in northern Finland, this small town sits near the Russian border. Ruka ski resort draws winter athletes, while its lakes and forests are home to moose, bears and wolves.
Kuusamo sits in northeastern Finland, where you can ski down Ruka mountain's 1,300-meter slopes, walk past the thundering Kiutaköngäs waterfall in Oulanka National Park, or watch the midnight sun from the Konttainen hill viewpoint. The surrounding wilderness holds brown bears and wolves, while rivers like the Kitka and Oulankajoki draw kayakers and anglers to their clear waters.
Getting to Kuusamo
Daily flights connect Helsinki to Kuusamo Airport, with the journey taking just over an hour. The airport sits 6 kilometers from the town center and 27 kilometers from Ruka ski resort. Trains and buses take 10-13 hours from Helsinki. The SkiBus runs between the airport and Ruka village during winter season, while taxis operate year-round.
Winter Activities at Ruka
Rukatunturi mountain rises 492 meters above sea level, with 28 slopes and 20 lifts operating from October to June. The main slope descends 1,300 meters down the mountain. Take guided snowmobile tours through snow-covered forests, learn reindeer sledding from local guides, or try ice fishing on frozen lakes. Athletes train at the HS142 ski jumping hill and cross-country stadium, which host international competitions throughout winter.
Summer in the National Park
The Bear's Ring trail winds 80 kilometers through Oulanka National Park from June to August. You'll walk past the Kiutaköngäs rapids, climb wooden stairs along canyon walls, and cross suspension bridges above clear rivers. The sun stays visible for 24 hours during two weeks in late June. Within the 270-square-kilometer park, marsh areas serve as home to Arctic foxes and Siberian jays.
Seasonal Natural Phenomena
At 60 kilometers south of the Arctic Circle, Kuusamo experiences dramatic seasonal changes. Snow covers the ground from mid-October until June, creating conditions for winter sports. Summer temperatures reach 20°C, making it comfortable for kayaking and hiking. Green and purple northern lights appear in winter skies, while summer nights stay bright for weeks.
Local Transportation
Ski pass holders can use free SkiBus services around Ruka during winter, with stops at major hotels and ski lifts. Regular buses connect to Oulanka and Hossa National Parks. Ruka village contains equipment rental shops, grocery stores, and restaurants within walking distance. For more shopping options and services, head to Kuusamo town center, 27 kilometers away.
