Rovaniemi: Korouoma National Park Canyon & Frozen Waterfalls

Exploring Korouoma National Park in Lapland, Finland, offers a captivating winter adventure perfect for those seeking natural beauty and outdoor activity. This 6-hour guided tour provides a chance to walk through snow-covered landscapes and marvel at frozen waterfalls that seem straight from a fairy tale. Priced for convenience, it includes hotel pickup, a scenic 5-kilometer hike, and the opportunity to relax with a barbecue and campfire at the end. The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, given its moderate difficulty, and is led by knowledgeable guides who share insights into the area’s natural wonders.

The tour departs from the Scandic Rovaniemi hotel parking lot, with pickup details sent a day in advance. It’s designed to be flexible with options for free cancellation up to 24 hours before and the ability to reserve now and pay later. With a rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 72 reviews, this experience consistently impresses visitors with its stunning scenery and friendly guides. It’s perfect for travelers eager to witness Lapland’s winter magic and enjoy a comfortable, guided outdoor experience in a small group setting.

Key Points

• Duration: 6 hours from pickup to drop-off, with a scenic 5 km hike
• Highlights: Korouoma canyon, frozen waterfalls, campfire and barbecue
• Location: Starts at Scandic Rovaniemi hotel parking lot, in Lapland, Finland
• Guides: Live guides speaking English and French, known for friendly and helpful service
• Physical effort: Moderate difficulty, suitable for fit travelers, with some slippery trail sections
• Flexibility: Options for free cancellation and reserve now, pay later

You can check availability for your dates here:

Korouoma National Park: A Winter Wonderland in Lapland

Korouoma National Park stretches across 30 kilometers, transforming into a snowy, icy landscape during winter. The park’s beautiful canyon and frozen waterfalls are the main attractions, with waterfalls only frozen from December to April. The landscape offers a fairytale setting for outdoor enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers alike. The area’s rugged terrain and icy features make for an exciting but manageable hike that captures the essence of Lapland’s winter magic.

The park’s frozen waterfalls are a major draw, appearing otherworldly when covered in ice and snow. These waterfalls provide a perfect backdrop for photos and memorable moments. The hiking trail follows the official park route, allowing visitors to experience the serenity and grandeur of this natural setting. The well-paced trail ensures a balance of adventure and comfort, with a rest stop halfway through for relaxation and taking in the scenery.

Meeting Point and Transportation Details

The tour begins at the Scandic Rovaniemi hotel parking lot, with pickup arrangements communicated the day before. Travelers should arrive 10 minutes early to meet their guide, who will wait up to 5 minutes. The pickup service is within 5 km of Rovaniemi city center, making it convenient for most accommodations. The coordinates for the meeting point are 66.50271606445312, 25.727169036865234.

Transportation is arranged to ensure a comfortable ride to Korouoma National Park, setting the stage for a relaxed outdoor experience. The small group size enhances the personal touch and allows guides to focus on individual needs and questions throughout the trip.

The Scenic 5-Kilometer Hike Through Korouoma Canyon

The core activity of this tour is a moderate 5 km hike along the official park trail. The trail showcases spectacular views of the canyon and the frozen waterfalls, which provide a magical backdrop for photos and sightseeing. The trail can be slippery and snow-covered, so sturdy footwear and warm clothing are essential.

At midway, the group takes a rest break at a designated camp, where the guides often prepare a barbecue or similar outdoor snack. This break offers an opportunity to warm up, enjoy hot drinks, and recharge before completing the second half of the hike. The trail’s difficulty is designed to be manageable, but hikers should be prepared for icy patches and uphill sections, especially the last 1 km which can be slightly more challenging.

Frozen Waterfalls: Nature’s Icy Masterpieces

The frozen waterfalls in Korouoma are the highlight for many visitors. These waterfalls freeze over from December to April, transforming into spectacular icy columns that hang from the canyon walls. The waterfalls provide countless photo opportunities and a sense of wonder at nature’s winter artistry.

These icy formations are an instant photo moment, and guides often share insights into how they form. Visitors are encouraged to bring their cameras to capture these otherworldly sights. Because the waterfalls are only frozen in winter, visiting during the specified months is essential to see this frozen wonder.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Campfire and Barbecue Experience in the Wilderness

After completing the hike, the tour concludes with a campfire and barbecue at a designated spot within the park. The outdoor fire provides warmth, and the barbecue offers a chance to enjoy a cozy meal amidst nature. The organizers are attentive to dietary needs, including vegetarian and vegan options, which are accommodated without issue.

This additional activity adds a social and relaxing element to the day, allowing visitors to unwind and reflect on the stunning scenery. The campfire setting enhances the authentic outdoor experience and offers a peaceful end to the adventure.

Practical Tips for the Tour

Participants should dress warmly in layers, including thermal clothing, waterproof outerwear, and sturdy, slip-resistant footwear. The trail can be slippery, especially near the waterfalls and on icy patches, so appropriate shoes are a must.

The tour is designed with moderate difficulty, making it suitable for those with average fitness, but a good level of balance and stamina is recommended. The guide provides tips on walking on ice and climbing in snowy conditions, making the experience accessible even for those less experienced.

Pricing, Flexibility, and Satisfaction

This tour offers great value with its included pickup, guided hike, rest stop, and barbecue. Flexible cancellation policies allow for full refunds if canceled up to 24 hours in advance, and the reserve now, pay later option adds booking convenience.

With a high overall rating of 4.7, visitors consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and good organization. Some reviews mention initial communication issues, but overall, guests find the guides friendly and helpful, making the experience enjoyable and memorable.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and photographers eager to see Korouoma’s icy waterfalls. It suits travelers who appreciate moderate hiking and are prepared for slippery terrain. The small group size and friendly guides make it a personalized and informative adventure, especially appealing to those wanting local insights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour’s moderate difficulty makes it suitable for children who are comfortable walking in winter conditions and have good balance.

What should I wear for the hike?
Warm layered clothing, waterproof outerwear, and sturdy footwear are recommended. It’s important to be prepared for icy patches and snow.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from the Scandic Rovaniemi hotel is included, with details sent a day before.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English and French.

How long is the hike?
The hike covers approximately 5 kilometers over the course of about 3 hours, including breaks.

What makes Korouoma special in winter?
From December to April, the waterfalls are fully frozen, creating spectacular icy formations in a snow-laden canyon.

Are there options for dietary restrictions?
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are available during the barbecue.

Will I need special equipment?
Sturdy, slip-resistant shoes are essential; guides offer tips on walking safely on ice.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely, the small group setting fosters a friendly atmosphere suitable for solo visitors seeking a guided outdoor adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby