🏔️ East/Karelia and Kuusamo/Ruka: off-season and views

In this article, you'll discover the "off-season" in eastern Finland: where the colours appear earlier (Ruka, Oulanka) and where they are delayed (Koli), how the temperature, precipitation and light change, and which short routes you can still access even in wind and rain. With just a little bit of planning and a few handy facts, you'll have a weekend plan that's all set. Imagine enjoying serene views without the crowds, a warm thermos at the rest stop, and a safe pace even in wet snow.

Off-season weather: comparing Kuusamo/Ruka and Koli

Editor's note. The guidelines are based on the logic that "the south is warmer, the north is drier and cooler in summer; it feels cooler near the water," which is confirmed by our summer reports for each region.

Ruska and the best "short" views

Kuusamo/Ruka (Oulanka). Ruska usually peaks in mid- to late September. It is colder and windier on the ridges, warmer and quieter in the Kitkajoki river valleys; the boardwalks at Päähkänäkallio offer views of the canyon without a long hike.
Karelia (Koli). The "golden autumn" arrives 1–2 weeks later: early to mid-October. A couple of hours is enough for contrasting postcards from Ukko-Koli and the neighbouring peaks, followed by loops along the boardwalks in the pine forests near Pielinen.

Off-season: wet snow, muddy roads, roots

In October, Kuusamo can get wet and visibility can be reduced, so keep your waterproof jacket, gloves and hat ready. In spring (April–May), there's a chance you might get kelirikko — that's when the ground is soggy and the roots and rocks are slippery. If you're going, it's a good idea to wear boots with good tread, gaiters and trekking poles to make life a bit easier. On the plateau, the wind is stronger than in the forest, so if you're in the wrong place at the wrong time, you might find yourself in a bit of a pickle. Best to stick to the valleys if you're planning to go hiking.

Routes for 1.5–4 hours (real and "dry")

• Pieni Karhunkierros (Oulanka). A short loop through canyons and bridges; in rainy weather, stick to the boardwalks and be careful when descending roots.
  • Ruka — fell palisades. A loop along the upper trails with views of the lakes; in windy conditions, take the lower forest corridors.
  • Koli — Ukko/Akka/Kolinportti. Three observation points with a return along the boardwalks; in wet snow — poles and membrane.
  • Koli — coastal loops at Pielinen. Low relief, pine trees and smooth stones; after rain, the stones become slippery — friction footwear is essential.

Go/No-Go: fast rapids in the off-season

What to take and how to dress

It's got three layers: a base layer, insulation (fleece/jumper) and a light membrane. Gloves, buff/hat, backpack cover. Make sure you've got footwear with grippy soles and gaiters for muddy conditions. You might also want to think about taking light crampons in case you get any ice. Just a few little things like a thermos flask and dry socks in a waterproof bag can make a big difference.

Logistics and safety

Plan your main activities for midday (when it's lighter and warmer), and if the wind is stronger than 7–8 m/s, move the ridges to forest loops. After it's rained, rocks and roots can be slippery, so take it slow and use poles for support when you're going downhill. There might be fog and deer on the roads in the morning, so just drive carefully and allow extra time. Only experienced people go out on the water in the off-season and in calm weather; for families, stick to "dry" loops.

Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below. If you have any interesting photos, personal experiences or questions on the topic, please feel free to leave a comment. We'll absolutely get back to you, because we're making the most useful and popular blog about Finland!