Autumn Colours Galore

Autumn leaf colour, or “ruska” to locals, is a spectacular natural phenomenon that paints northern landscapes in deep and soft tones. Covered in forests and wildernesses, Finland is a prime destination for some serious leaf peeping.

The stark contrasts between the four seasons are the main characteristics of the annual natural cycle in Finland. Autumn leaf colour acts as a messenger of sorts; it bids a melancholy farewell to long summer days and serves as a reminder of the dark and cold winter that looms around the corner.

The peak season only lasts for roughly two weeks. The period varies from year to year, but the latter part of September is usually a safe bet when planning a trip.

Where to go

Autumn leaf colour occurs in all of Finland, but gets more vibrant the further north you go. Leaf peeping trips to Lapland are standard issue with Finns, as the province is home to the biggest wilderness areas in the country.

Hiking is the most favoured activity for witnessing the phenomenon, and routes vary from accessible to all to challenging enough for more experienced trekkers. The temperature is also ideal for hiking, usually around 10 degrees Celsius. Mountain biking, canoeing and fishing are staples of the season, too.

Visual harmony

A feeling of harmony and cosiness is often associated with autumn leaf colour. Finding a spot with a good view over the landscape make your everyday worries a distant memory. Add a hot drink with snacks and you’ll catch yourself making excuses for not leaving.

The “ruska” season is popular with photographers, and why wouldn’t it be: the variety of broadleaf trees and conifers as well as berries and moss on the ground provide an array of hues of green, auburn, blue, red and yellow so vivid not capturing them would be a crime.