Timeline
09:19
Ounasvaara winter walking trail
Begin the winter walking trail at the official starting point near Santasport or the Sky Hotel Ounasvaara. The trail is 6 km long and partially follows the nature trail. Remember, it is absolutely forbidden to walk on the skiing tracks.
10:04
Ounasvaara winter walking trail
Find a quiet spot along the trail or near the top of the hill to wait. The low sun in January creates a stark, beautiful contrast against the white forest as the sky begins to lighten.
10:19
Ounasvaara winter walking trail
Watch the sunrise at 10:19. The sun stays low all day, casting long shadows and a soft, cold light across the Ounasvaara hill.
10:59
Head down to the city centre for a warm breakfast. Lappish Restaurant Gaissa serves breakfast daily from 08:00 to 11:00, offering a perfect chance to refuel after the walk.
Local tip
The sun sets toward the SSW, but for this sunrise plan, the eastern exposure of the hill provides the best view. Check the route from the trailhead to the restaurant, as the walk down is significant.
Check before you go
- Lappish Restaurant Gaissa breakfast hours are Mon–Thu Sun 15:00–22:00 (dinner) but breakfast is daily 08:00–11:00. Ensure you arrive before 11:00.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Rovaniemi (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).