An Active Day in Lapland – Autumn Adventures in Levi

October in Lapland is far from quiet. When the slopes in Levi open for the season, autumn colors still paint the landscape — making it the perfect time for an active day in Lapland.

A foggy fell and autumn colors set the scene for an active day in Lapland. From skiing to biking, running, sauna and snowboarding – all in one unforgettable October day in Levi.

This story follows one October day in Levi, when we set out to see how much adventure could fit into a single daylight stretch. The goal: experience it all — cross-country skiing, trail running, e-mountain biking, sauna and ice swimming, and, of course, alpine skiing to end the day.

Morning Fog and a Busy Ski Track – The Start of an Active Day in Lapland

Morning broke in Levi under a thick fog that wrapped the fell in silence. Not exactly the most inspiring start for an active day in Lapland – but that was about to change.

At the 1.5-kilometer ski track beside the golf course, we discovered two surprises. First, the weather was clearer on this side of the fell. Second, the place was alive with early-season energy. By 9 a.m., the parking lot was nearly full and the snow was buzzing with eager skiers. The glide was excellent, skis flying across the early-season snow. After a brisk half-hour warm-up, it was time to change gear — the trail running shoes were ready.

The day began with cross-country skiing on the early-season snow track next to Levi’s golf course – a clear sign that winter starts early in Lapland.

Trail Running on the Ice Age Trail

Our next adventure led us to the Ice Age Trail, a scenic 9-kilometer loop circling the fell. Trail running turned out to be the most demanding part of the day — the thin layer of snow up high made footing tricky on rocky ground.

Even without wide views (the fog still lingered), the cool air was perfect for running. Instead of draining energy, the trail gave it back. The run felt effortless — a great reminder of how rewarding an active day in Lapland can be.

During the trail run, we caught the first glimpse of winter. Rain had turned to snow up on the fell, leaving a thin white layer over the rocky path.

E-Mountain Biking on Kätkä Fell

After a quick lunch, we swapped running shoes for pedals. From Zero Point, we rented e-mountain bikes and headed toward Kätkä Fell, across Lake Immeljärvi.

E-biking is an ideal way to explore Lapland’s terrain in autumn. The assist keeps up the pace even on climbs, so you can cover distance fast while still feeling the burn. The trails around Kätkä are smooth and well-marked — just right for a relaxed yet energetic ride.

An e-mountain bike is a perfect way to explore Lapland’s fell trails – combining speed, scenery, and just the right amount of effort.

Sauna, Ice Swimming and Evening Skiing – The Finnish Way to End an Active Day

After hours of outdoor movement, it was time for the ultimate Finnish recovery: sauna and ice swimming. The chilly dip made our skin tingle, but the sauna’s warmth quickly restored balance – and motivation for one last challenge.

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As evening arrived, ski boots replaced running shoes once again. Thanks to stored snow, Levi’s well-lit slopes were already open in October, glowing invitingly through the mist. The air was still foggy, but the excitement was real – there’s something special about carving the first turns of the season when winter hasn’t even properly begun.

The final runs of the day brought nothing but joy – a fitting finale to an active day in Lapland.

In October, lakes aren’t frozen yet, but the water is just as cold as in winter. The icy plunge before snowboarding was pure Finnish refreshment.

What We Learned – Autumn Is the Time for Action

Our test proved that you can easily fit five outdoor activities into one day in the fells. It does take some planning and a bit of stamina, but the reward is a full day of pure joy.

  1. You don’t have to do it all – but you can. For the energetic, it’s worth trying once. It’s a guaranteed good time.
  2. Less gear than you’d think. One outfit worked for skiing, running, and biking with only minor changes. Pack a warm mid-layer and you’re set.
  3. Weather isn’t a deal-breaker. Fog and drizzle didn’t stop us. With the right clothes and attitude, the fell is fun – even when it’s grey.
The final activity of the active day in Lapland was snowboarding. Levi’s well-lit slopes stay open late into the evening – perfect for ending the day on snow.

Summer Activities

12.10.2024

Updated 12.10.2025

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