Written by Justin Mewse
May 2023
In Finland’s summer and autumn, visitors can enjoy hiking and camping in national parks, witness the changing colours of the leaves, berry picking, mushroom hunting, bird migration, and even see the Northern Lights.
Northern Lights
While winter is the most popular time to see the Northern Lights in Finland, it is possible to witness this awe-inspiring natural phenomenon outside of the winter season. The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, can be seen in Finland from late August to early April, with the best viewing opportunities occurring during the months of September to November and February to March. During this time, visitors can witness the colorful dance of lights in the dark Arctic skies. Some of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Finland outside of winter include the Finnish Lapland region, especially in the vicinity of Lake Inari or Kilpisjärvi. While the Northern Lights are never guaranteed, witnessing this magical display of nature in Finland is an experience not to be missed.
National Parks
Exploring any one or more of Finland’s 41 national parks is a must for anyone visiting the country, and the summer and autumn months offer unique opportunities to experience these natural wonders. During the summer, visitors can take advantage of the endless daylight to hike and camp in the parks, taking in the stunning scenery that Finland has to offer. Some popular national parks to explore during the summer months include Nuuksio, Koli, and Oulanka. In the autumn, the changing leaves create a colorful spectacle, making it an ideal time for hiking. The national parks also offer a chance to witness the annual migration of birds and the emergence of other wildlife. Some of the most popular national parks to visit during the autumn months include Urho Kekkonen, Pallas-Yllästunturi, and Syöte.
Urho Kekkonen National Park is Finland’s second-largest national park, located in Lapland, in the northernmost part of the country. It covers an area of over 2,500 square kilometers, featuring vast wilderness areas, rugged fells, and pristine forests. The park offers various hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and fishing activities. It’s also known for its unique cultural heritage, including traditional Sami reindeer herding communities.
Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park is located in western Lapland. The park is known for its stunning natural beauty, including vast wilderness areas, ancient forests, and picturesque fells. It offers visitors a wide range of activities such as hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and skiing in the winter months. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including reindeer, moose, and golden eagles.
Syöte National Park is situated in the south-central region of Finland, in the Syöte fell area. The park boasts spectacular landscapes and diverse flora and fauna, including old-growth forests and beautiful mires. Visitors can enjoy hiking on the numerous trails in the park, skiing during the winter months, and observing wildlife such as moose, bears, and lynx. The park is also known for its birdwatching opportunities, with over 90 species of birds recorded in the area.
Autumn Colours
Finland’s autumn colours are truly breathtaking. As the leaves of deciduous trees begin to change, the landscape transforms into a stunning display of reds, oranges, and yellows. The changing of colors can typically be seen in late September and early October, depending on the location. Finland’s vast forests provide an ideal backdrop to witness this natural spectacle, and many people flock to the countryside to take in the sights. The autumn colours also signal the start of the harvest season, with locals and visitors alike taking part in berry picking, mushroom hunting, and other seasonal activities. Overall, Finland’s autumn colors offer a unique and unforgettable experience for anyone looking to witness the beauty of nature.
Equinox
Finland’s equinox marks the time when the length of day and night are roughly equal. This occurs twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall. In the spring, Finland’s equinox falls around March 20th, while the fall equinox usually occurs around September 23rd. During these times, visitors to Finland can experience the changing of seasons, with the spring equinox signaling the start of longer days and warmer weather, and the fall equinox marking the beginning of longer nights and cooler temperatures. The equinox is also an important time for many cultures and traditions, with celebrations and rituals often taking place around this time. In Finland, the equinox is often marked by festivals and other events, with locals and visitors alike taking part in activities such as bonfires and outdoor concerts. Overall, Finland’s equinox provides a unique and memorable experience for anyone looking to witness the changing of seasons and immerse themselves in the country’s culture and traditions.
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