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Experience the silence of the northern winter and the vibrant colors of the Northern Lights in the landscapes of Rokua Geopark

Rokua Geopark offers excellent conditions for admiring the Northern Lights – without the distracting glow of city lights. Rokua Geopark invites you to experience the unique tranquility of northern nature.

Where and when can you see the Northern Lights?

The Rokua Geopark area – including the open waters of Lake Oulujärvi, the ridge landscapes of Rokua, and the Oulujoki River Valley – is an excellent place for observing the Northern Lights. The region’s low light pollution and wide open views provide great opportunities to witness this Arctic phenomenon. The best chances to see the Northern Lights are from November to March, especially on clear and cold evenings and nights.

How to get to Rokua Geopark

Winter adventures in peaceful natural surroundings

The Northern Lights are just one part of Rokua Geopark’s winter charm. The area offers visitors:

  • Ski trails and snowshoe paths that take you through quiet forests and onto frozen lakes
  • Winter cycling routes for both beginners and experienced riders
  • Wellness services and accommodation options surrounded by nature, ranging from cottages to hotels
  • Local delicacies in cozy restaurants where you can enjoy the atmosphere of winter

Accommodation

Sleep comfortably in the natural surroundings of Rokua Geopark. The area offers many kinds of accomodation fully-equipped hotels, villas, cottages and camping sites. Staying overnight in Rokua Geopark is an easy way to enjoy nature, as most of the accommodation on offer is close to hiking sites.

Restaurants

Good food is the perfect end to a day's hiking or holiday. Enjoy delicious food and local specialities in Rokua Geopark's restaurants!

Routes

The trails in Rokua Geopark offer hikers a variety of breathtaking scenery. There are routes suitable for both longer hikes and shorter walks with the youngest members of the family. Hiking and mountain biking routes can be found on the Oulu River Valley Trail, in Rokua National Park and in the Lake Oulu hiking area. Themed nature trails at the Liimanninkoski Rapids in Muhos, the Lemmenpolku Trail and the Deer Trail in Manamansalo also showcase the area's interesting cultural history.

Skiing

The skiing terrain in Rokua Geopark is interesting and varied. Ski tracks in the area follow hiking trails. The trail network offers a wide variety of trails of all types and lengths for both fitness skiers and top athletes. There are campfire sites along the way. On longer trips you can stay in lean-tos.

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing in Rokua Geopark is a great way to get out into the winter woods and enjoy nature - especially if you prefer walking to skiing! Wearing snowshoes keeps your foot from sinking into the snow because the snowshoe distributes your weight over a large area. A Snowshoe Safari is a fun option for a sports day, for example.