Valtavaara Winter Trail
Hike through a winter wonderland on the Valtavaara Winter Trail near Ruka, Finland, and witness breathtaking views from the summit of Valtavaara.
The Valtavaara Winter Trail, near Ruka in Kuusamo, Finland, offers a stunning 5.5 km hiking experience through snow-laden forests to the Valtavaara hilltop. This demanding but rewarding trail showcases the beauty of Finnish Lapland in winter, with panoramic views and snow-covered trees, also known as tykky.
A brief summary to Valtavaara Winter Trail - Starting Point
- Rukatunturi, Kuusamo, 93825, FI
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Dress in layers to stay warm and comfortable during your hike.
- Wear sturdy, insulated boots for better traction on snowy trails.
- Bring a thermos of hot drink to enjoy during your hike.
- Check the weather forecast before you go and be prepared for sudden changes.
- Bring a map, compass, mobile phone, headlamp, and matches or a lighter.
Getting There
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Walking
The Valtavaara Winter Trail starting point is located at the Saarua parking area in eastern Ruka. From the parking lot, the trailhead is easily visible, marked by an information board detailing the hike. The recommended route follows an anti-clockwise loop. The trail is well-marked with green and orange signs and red reflectors. No special equipment is needed unless there has been a recent heavy snowfall, in which case snowshoes are recommended.
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Public Transport
From Kuusamo Airport or Kuusamo city center, take a bus towards Ruka. Get off at Ruka Kumpare. From there, you can take another bus or a taxi to the Saarua parking area, the starting point of the Valtavaara Winter Trail, or walk approximately 5km. Bus tickets from Ruka to Kuusamo cost approximately €7-€12. A taxi from Ruka to the Valtavaara Winter Trail - Starting Point will cost approximately €40-€60.
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Taxi
Taxis are available from Kuusamo Airport and Ruka to the Valtavaara Winter Trail - Starting Point. A taxi ride from Kuusamo Airport to the Valtavaara Winter Trail - Starting Point will take approximately 25 minutes and cost €40-€60. A taxi from Ruka to the Valtavaara Winter Trail - Starting Point will cost approximately €40-€60.
Discover more about Valtavaara Winter Trail - Starting Point
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Rosa & Rudolf Kids'Club
0.3 km
Experience endless fun and creativity for your little ones at Rosa & Rudolf Kids'Club in the heart of Kuusamo, Finland. A must-visit for families!
Aurinkopaikka
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Monomesta
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Rukakaiku Cottages
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Summer Sled Track
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Experience the thrill of tobogganing down Ruka's Summer Sled Track, a unique outdoor adventure surrounded by Finland's breathtaking natural beauty.
Outdoor Passion Finland
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Scandic Rukahovi
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Wild Food Restaurant Rukan Kuksa
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SKI-INN Hotel RukaVillage
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Ruka Ski Chalets
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Classic Pizza Restaurant
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Shopping center Kumpare
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Ruka Ski Resort
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Pizzeria Ruka
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Ruka Peak
1.6 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Saarua Winter Trail - starting point
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Rukatunturi
1.0 km
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Valtavaara Pond Shelter
1.0 km
Discover the serene beauty of Valtavaara Pond Shelter in Kuusamo, Finland, a perfect hiking destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Rumat paikannimet kyltti Ruka tunturi
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Rukan Miniskeittiparkki
1.3 km
Explore the excitement of Rukan Miniskeittiparkki, a vibrant skateboard park in Kuusamo, Finland, perfect for skaters and nature lovers alike.
Ruka Pedestrian Village
1.3 km
Year-round destination in Finnish Lapland offering skiing, hiking, and a vibrant village atmosphere amidst stunning natural beauty.
Pirunkirkko Cave
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Valtavaara Campfire Shelter
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Helikopterilennätys RUKA
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Pyhatunturi
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Pikku Pyhävaara Lappish Hut
4.1 km
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Maalaispysäkki Arola / Arolasta
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Orjasniemi Reindeer Farm
6.9 km
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Porontimajoki Open Wilderness Hut
8.6 km
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Erola's Reindeer and Tree
10.1 km
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Essential places to dine
Ski Booster - Bar - Cafe - Grill
0.3 km
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CAMP Kitchen & Bar - RUKA
0.3 km
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Ski Bistro
0.4 km
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Ristorante il GUFO
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Polar Bar Ruka
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Bar IHKU Ruka
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Restaurant Piste
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Zone
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Kaltiokivi
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RUOK
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Colorado Bar & Grill
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Pitäjän-Pirtti
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Hanki Baari Ruka
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RukaTonttu
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Ravintola Vespino
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
SKI-INN Hotels & Apartments RukaValley
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K-Market RukaValley
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Zipline Ruka
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Head Ruka Ski Rent
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RukaStore
1.3 km
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Intersport Ruka
1.3 km
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Ruka BrandVillage
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UNNA S living
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Life
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Riipisen Riistaherkut Oy
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K-Market Ruka village
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Wolf Sport Oy
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Domifish
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Kuusamo Safaris
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Alko Kuusamo Ruka
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cafe-Bar Twin Peak
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Grill Ruka drive-in
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Burger Cafe & Bar Ruka
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Iisakki Village Ravintola
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Ajakan Taika Oy
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TUNDRA Ceramics & Gastronomy
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Kuusamon Lopotti Ky
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Pohjolan Kievari
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O'Learys Holiday Club Kuusamon Tropiikki
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Ravintola Remu
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LÄMSÄN ERÄMIEHET R.Y.
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Oulanka Canyon
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Värikallio Rock Paintings
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Kahvila-Ravintola Olavi Seppänen
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