Ruka Ski Area

Ruka Ski Area which includes forests, rapids and rafting
Ruka Ski Area featuring snowboarding and snow
Ruka Ski Area showing forest scenes and land animals
Ruka Ski Area featuring snow, a small town or village and night scenes
Ruka Ski Area which includes a lake or waterhole, hiking or walking and forests


Experience this dynamic resort, which features snow-covered forest trails, husky safaris, long winter skiing seasons and excellent fishing and rafting in summer.

Enjoy the serene Nordic landscapes and fresh mountain air at Ruka Ski Resort. This winter wonderland, located near Rukatunturi between the Oulanka National Park to the north and Kuusamo to the south, is surrounded by sweeping valleys, lakes and fjords. Ski, sled, snowmobile or trek through these rejuvenating landscapes.

Ruka has one of the longest winter seasons in Europe, lasting over 200 days each year, from October to June. Take advantage of Ruka’s heavy snowfalls, which ensure excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Carve down groomed slopes on the mountain or try challenging backcountry terrain.

See the snow-covered wilderness areas around Rukatunturi on a husky or reindeer safari or a snowshoe trek. Visit a husky farm and learn about the lives of these arctic dogs. The Rytisuo and Oulanka wilderness trails are favourites among trekking enthusiasts. Look for reindeer and winter birds as you journey through these frosty landscapes.

Try a winter fishing trip, where you’ll angle for local species through holes in a frozen lake. Cross-country ski or snowmobile along trails around Ruka and Kuusamo with great views of the Nordic mountains. Afterward, warm up with a traditional Finnish sauna. Enjoy the spectacular northern lights from September through April.

Though somewhat short, Ruka summers offer a range of exciting activities. Adventure through the Oulanka National Park, a natural wonderland of pine forests, arctic rivers and wild canyons. Take a hiking tour along mountainous trails for great exercise, fresh air and striking views. Sleep in traditional mountain huts and photograph gorgeous flower meadows. Mountain biking uphill and down is also popular around the Ruka area.

Fish for trout along the Oulankajoki and Kitkajoki rivers, known for their serene beauty. Alternatively, take a thrilling rafting tour down two of Finland’s most famous rapids, Kiutaköngäs and Jyrävä.

Reach Ruka Ski Resort by flying into nearby Kuusamo and then taking a 20-minute bus to the resort. Journey around the area via free shuttle bus, which connects most accommodation to the mountains.

Popular places to visit


Top Hotel Deals

Ski-Inn RukaValley

Ski-Inn RukaValley

4 out of 5
Bistrotie 2 Kuusamo
Ski-Inn RukaValley
Scandic Rukahovi

Scandic Rukahovi

3.5 out of 5
Rukankylantie 15 Kuusamo
Scandic Rukahovi
Ski-Inn RukaVillage

Ski-Inn RukaVillage

4 out of 5
Rukankyläntie 6 Kuusamo
Ski-Inn RukaVillage
Ski-Inn AurinkoRinne

Ski-Inn AurinkoRinne

4 out of 5
Hiihtokouluntie 16-18 Kuusamo
Ski-Inn AurinkoRinne
Vuosselin Helmi

Vuosselin Helmi

2.5 out of 5
Ahon Jussintie 7 Kuusamo
Vuosselin Helmi
Hotel Royal Ruka

Hotel Royal Ruka

Mestantie 1 Kuusamo Kuusamo
Hotel Royal Ruka
Holiday Club Rukatunturi Apartments

Holiday Club Rukatunturi Apartments

2 out of 5
8 Rukatunturintie Kuusamo Pohjois-Pohjanmaa
Holiday Club Rukatunturi Apartments
Talvitähti c 37 by Interhome

Talvitähti c 37 by Interhome

Kuusamo Northern Ostrobothnia
Talvitähti c 37 by Interhome
Snowflake b 24 by Interhome

Snowflake b 24 by Interhome

Kuusamo Northern Ostrobothnia
Snowflake b 24 by Interhome
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Ruka Ski Area

Ruka Ski Area in Kuusamo offers a fantastic array of activities for holidaymakers, including excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities at its top-notch ski resorts. Visitors can enjoy thrilling ski weekends and partake in exciting safaris or scenic hikes. It's an ideal destination for those seeking memorable Finnish ski holidays, blending adventure with stunning winter landscapes.

Shopping

If you're up for a drive, visit Oulanka National Park, located 33.8km from Ruka Ski Area. This shopping centre offers a blend of entertainment, family-friendly activities, and a vibrant city atmosphere, making it a great spot for gifts and souvenirs during your trip.

Recreation

At Kuusamo Park, located 22.5km from Ruka Ski Area, immerse yourself in nature's tranquillity. Enjoy wellness activities such as yoga sessions and relaxation areas, perfect for rejuvenating your mind and body amidst stunning landscapes.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of skiing at Rukatunturi Ski Jumping Hill, located 966m from Ruka Ski Area, offering exhilarating ski vibes. For more adventure, glide down Etutuoli, situated 805m away, and explore the stunning landscapes along the 40.2km Karhunkierros Trail, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Ruka Ski Area is vibrant and welcoming. Enjoy a drink at the lively Club Ruka, or for a more relaxed vibe, visit the cosy Ruka Village bars. Don't miss out on the stunning winter scenery as you wander between venues.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Ruka Ski Area

Ruka Ski Area in Kuusamo, Finland, offers a delightful mix of attractions for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and adventure seekers. Visitors can explore local points of interest such as the visitor centre, nature reserves, and charming churches. Known for its exceptional ski season, Ruka is one of Finland's premier ski resorts, providing ample opportunities for winter sports and memorable experiences in a breathtaking natural setting.

  • Valtavaaran Nature Reserve: A stunning natural area located a mere 3.2km from Ruka Ski Area, Valtavaaran Nature Reserve offers a tranquil escape into Finnish wilderness. Here, you can explore diverse flora and fauna, with picturesque hiking trails that reveal breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Käylänkoski Rapids: Situated 14.5km from Ruka, Käylänkoski Rapids is a magnificent river known for its scenic beauty and invigorating outdoor atmosphere. Ideal for nature lovers, visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the riverbanks and marvel at the powerful flow of water.
  • Käylän Uimaranta: This charming beach, also located 14.5km from Ruka, boasts inviting sandy shores and a relaxing vibe. Perfect for sunbathing or a refreshing swim, Käylän Uimaranta is an excellent spot to unwind and soak up the Finnish summer.

Best time to go to Ruka Ski Area

The best time to visit Ruka Ski Area is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is very cloudy with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January12.4°F (-10.9°C)No RainVery CloudyAverageAverage
February14.5°F (-9.7°C)No RainVery CloudyModerately HighSlightly High
March20.3°F (-6.5°C)No RainVery CloudyModerately HighSlightly High
April30.4°F (-0.9°C)No RainVery CloudyAverageAverage
May43.0°F (6.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage
June53.6°F (12.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
July59.4°F (15.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighSlightly Low
August55.4°F (13.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
September46.2°F (7.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
October33.4°F (0.8°C)Light RainVery CloudyModerately LowAverage
November25.7°F (-3.5°C)No RainVery CloudyModerately LowAverage
December17.8°F (-7.9°C)No RainVery CloudyAverageSlightly High

Tips to save on your trip to Ruka Ski Area

  • Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Ruka Ski Area.
  • Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically June to August) for more affordable package holidays to Ruka Ski Area.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
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