This calm village in Finnish Lapland sits on the Swedish border, with winter temperatures reaching -45°C. Local Sámi reindeer farms welcome visitors year-round.
In Muonio, Finland's northernmost town, you'll find yourself 200 kilometers above the Arctic Circle. Walk through pine forests in Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park, watch salmon jump in the Muonio River, or photograph the Northern Lights from September through March. The town's location makes it ideal for viewing both the midnight sun and polar night, while its position between two mountain ranges creates some of the clearest skies in Europe.
Getting to Muonio
You can reach Muonio through Kittilä International Airport, which connects to major European cities during winter season. Take the night train from Helsinki to Kolari station, about an hour away, with bus connections to Muonio. Direct buses run from Rovaniemi in about three hours, and the E8 highway connects Muonio to both southern Finland and northern Norway.
Winter Activities in the Arctic
With snow covering the ground from October to May, you can explore over 500 kilometers of cross-country skiing trails through Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park. At Ski Resort Olos, ski or snowboard on ten slopes ranging from beginner to advanced. Local guides take you on husky sledding trips through snow-covered pine forests, and you can join snowmobile tours to watch the Northern Lights away from artificial light.
Lakes and Rivers of Muonio
The Muonio River drops 205 meters over its 230-kilometer length, creating strong currents where salmon gather. Fish for grayling, trout, whitefish, and pike in any of the 200 lakes, including Jerisjärvi, Särkijärvi, and Muoniojärvi. During summer, you can canoe these waters or swim at marked beaches while the midnight sun shines overhead.
Summer in the National Park
Hike through Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park on marked trails connecting local villages. The Hetta-Pallas trail takes you on a four-day journey past mountain lakes and through birch forests. From August to September, pick wild blueberries, cloudberries, and porcini mushrooms throughout the park's forests and marshlands.
Wildlife and Birdwatching
Visit in early June to spot birds before mosquito season begins. Look for Siberian jays and northern wheatears from the birdwatching towers at Muoniojärvi Lake. Head to the Kutuniva area near Pallastunturi Fells to see golden eagles and white-tailed eagles soaring above the treeline.
Arctic Light Phenomena
The sun stays above the horizon for 52 days from late May to mid-July, lighting up the landscape 24 hours a day. During winter, experience 24 days of polar night from December to January when the sun doesn't rise. Watch the Northern Lights from late August through April - the minimal light pollution and frequent clear skies make Muonio one of Finland's best locations for aurora viewing.
