Levi: Backcountry Skiing Adventure

Levi’s Backcountry Skiing Adventure offers a unique way to experience the pristine Arctic landscape of Lapland. This 3.5-hour tour combines cross-country skiing with nature photography in a peaceful, snow-covered wilderness. Guided by a professional photography guide, participants learn the basics of backcountry skiing while capturing breathtaking landscape shots. The tour departs from Levi, with pick-up options from central accommodations, and is limited to small groups of up to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

While the tour is designed to be accessible to those with some outdoor fitness, it is more demanding than typical slope skiing, and the minimum age is 10 years old. A highlight includes building a fire for snacks and hot drinks, along with receiving edited pictures of the experience. The combination of adventure, photography, and Arctic scenery makes this tour ideal for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts seeking a memorable winter activity in Finland.

Key Points

• Experience the Arctic wilderness through backcountry cross-country skiing in Lapland.
• Professional photography guidance enhances the chance to capture stunning landscape photos.
• Tour includes building a fire, snacks, and hot drinks around the campfire.
• Specialist skis enable access to deep snow and off-track areas for unforgettable landscapes.
• Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a small-group, intimate experience.
• Duration is 3.5 hours, with pick-up in Levi and flexible cancellation policies.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Levi’s Backcountry Skiing: An Arctic Wilderness Experience

The Levi: Backcountry Skiing Adventure takes place in the snowy expanses of Lapland, Finland, offering a chance to explore pristine Arctic nature away from crowded slopes. This tour is rooted in the tradition of environmentally friendly winter travel, emphasizing off-track skiing with specialist skis designed for deep snow.

Participants get to learn skiing basics suited for the wilderness, guided by expert instructors who focus on safety and technique. The tour emphasizes nature photography, with a professional guide sharing tips on landscape shots while the group ventures into some of the most beautiful and quiet areas of Lapland. If luck is on your side, you might even spot local wildlife during the adventure.

Starting Point and Transportation in Levi

The meeting point for the tour is at the Beyond Arctic Levi office in Sirkka, located at Myllyjoentie 2. Guests staying in the central Levi area are asked to arrive 15 minutes early. For those staying outside central Levi, pick-up is available at their accommodation within 10 kilometers of the meeting point, with timings communicated based on location.

Participants travel to the ski location via minivan, enjoying scenic views en route to a remote spot chosen for its natural beauty. The transportation setup ensures that travelers are comfortably transferred to the wilderness zone, avoiding the need to navigate icy roads themselves.

Location and Wilderness Stops

Once at the selected site, the group builds a fire and prepares a light snack on open flames. The campfire setting provides a warm and cozy environment to relax and enjoy hot drinks in the midst of Arctic silence. The chosen locations are carefully selected for their authentic natural beauty, providing excellent photo opportunities of Arctic landscapes.

This stop also offers a chance for wildlife spotting, if the conditions are right. The photo stop is a highlight, allowing participants to capture stunning images of snow-covered trees, frozen lakes, and possibly some animal tracks. The guided photography session helps optimize the quality of photos, making this a perfect tour for photography enthusiasts.

The Specialist Skis and Off-Track Skiing

A key feature of this tour is the use of specialist skis that represent the latest innovation in Finnish wilderness exploration. These skis are designed with skin-based material, allowing for easy movement over deep snow and off-track areas. They enable skiers to leave behind known trails and venture into more secluded, untouched parts of Lapland.

The skis make backcountry skiing accessible even for those unfamiliar with off-piste travel, though some physical activity is involved. The experience offers an exciting alternative to slope skiing, providing unforgettable landscapes and serene snow-covered vistas far from crowded ski resorts.

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Guided Photography and Wilderness Exploration

The tour is led by a professional photography guide who shares landscape photography tips throughout the journey. They help visitors frame their shots and capture the true essence of Arctic scenery. The guide’s insights are valuable for anyone interested in nature photography, whether a beginner or more experienced.

The exploration involves traversing quiet wilderness areas, where the group can enjoy uninterrupted views and peaceful snow-covered woods. The guide ensures that everyone is comfortable with their camera settings and composing shots, making the photography component a major highlight.

Lunch and Relaxation by the Fire

Midway through the tour, the group gathers around a campfire for a light snack and warm drinks. This break provides an opportunity to rest, chat, and soak in the surroundings. The fire creates a cozy atmosphere amid the cold and snow, making it easier to connect with nature.

Participants are treated to hot drinks to keep warm, and the snack is prepared on open flames, adding a rustic touch to the experience. This segment also allows for sharing photography tips or simply enjoying the tranquil Arctic silence.

Duration, Group Size, and Flexibility

The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, starting from Levi with flexible pick-up options. The group is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a small-group experience with personal attention from guides. This setup is ideal for those who prefer a more intimate, less crowded adventure.

Cancellation policies are flexible, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour date. This makes it easier to plan without worry, especially in unpredictable winter conditions.

Physical Requirements and Suitability

The minimum age for this tour is 10 years old, reflecting its photography focus and moderate physical demand. The activity involves some physical effort in skiing and moving through snow, so participants should have a reasonable level of fitness.

While the experience is accessible for beginners, it is more strenuous than typical slope skiing. Travelers should be prepared for cold weather conditions and moderate outdoor activity. For families with younger children, private arrangements can be made to tailor the experience.

Pricing, Cancellation, and Booking Flexibility

Visitors can reserve their spot without immediate payment, with the option to pay later. The tour offers full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance. Pricing details are available on the booking platform, and the tour is designed to fit different schedules with varying starting times.

This flexible booking setup allows travelers to secure their place early and adjust plans if needed, making it a convenient choice for winter travel planning.

What Past Participants Say

The reviews for this tour are generally positive, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 26 reviews. Many praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery captured through the photography guidance.

Some reviews note that the experience can be more strenuous than expected, emphasizing the need for good physical condition. A few mention disappointments with guide planning or logistics, suggesting it’s ideal to confirm details ahead of time and ensure your guide is well-prepared.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This Levi backcountry skiing tour suits those who enjoy outdoor adventure and nature photography. It’s perfect for adventurers with some fitness, eager to explore remote Arctic landscapes on skis. The focus on small groups and personalized guidance makes it a good choice for travelers seeking a quiet, authentic wilderness experience.

However, it’s less suitable for younger children under 10 years old or those seeking a less physically demanding activity. The experience hinges on cold weather, outdoor activity, and a willingness to learn skiing techniques suited for deep snow.

Levi: Backcountry Skiing Adventure – Final Notes

This tour offers a rare glimpse into Lapland’s untouched wilderness, blending adventure, photography, and cultural appreciation. The specialist skis, expert guide, and cozy fire breaks make it stand out among winter activities in Levi.

While logistical challenges have been noted in some reviews, overall, the experience provides great value for those prepared for a physical outdoor activity in a spectacular setting. It’s particularly appealing to nature lovers and photographers eager to capture Lapland’s winter magic.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum age for this tour?
The minimum age is 10 years old due to the photography focus and activity demands.

What should I wear for the tour?
Participants should wear warm outdoor clothing, including layered thermal wear, waterproof jackets, gloves, hat, and warm footwear suitable for snow.

Are the skis suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour uses specialist skis designed for easy movement in deep snow, making it accessible for beginners with some outdoor activity experience.

How long is the tour?
The tour duration is approximately 3.5 hours, including transportation, skiing, stops, and breaks.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes pick-up from central Levi or accommodations within 10 km; transportation is by minivan to the wilderness site.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with full refund.

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