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Riisitunturi

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Mountain

Weather…

Riisitunturi is a prominent fell ridge in southeastern Lapland, near the municipality of Posio, and forms the center of the national park of the same name. Standing at 465 meters, it features expansive views over the surrounding hill and lake landscape. The area is most famous for its heavy crown snow loads, known as Tykky formations, which transform spruce trees into bizarre white sculptures during winter. Geologically, Riisitunturi is noted for its slope bogs, which develop due to the humid climate and the inclination of the terrain. These bogs are ecologically valuable and host rare plant species of the boreal zone. The fell consists predominantly of ancient rock formations shaped by the last ice age. Hikers use well-marked trails to experience the untouched nature and silence of the Nordic wilderness. The climate is subarctic, with cool summers and very snowy winters, making the region a paradise for snowshoe hikers.

Location: Finland
Nearby: Posio (13 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-13	-12	-8	-2	6	12	15	13	8	0	-6	-10
Rain mm	50	39	44	50	85	96	114	102	86	73	61	58

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

This mountain is accessible via roads leading into Riisitunturi National Park, often starting from Posio.

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Best season

Winter is the absolute highlight for viewing the famous 'Tykkylumi' iced trees, though summer is also beautiful.

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Terrain & paths

It is a sloping mountain terrain that becomes extremely heavily laden with snow during the long winter.

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What to bring

Extreme cold weather gear, thick thermal layers, and snowshoes or skis are indispensable in the winter.

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Parking

Parking is normally available at the national park's starting point, but can fill up quickly in peak winter.

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Safety

The harsh winter weather and freezing temperatures require very careful preparation and respect for nature.

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Time needed

A typical winter trek to admire the fascinating ice-covered trees takes about three to four hours.

Geography

Coordinates

66.20000, 28.00000

Facts

The highest elevation of Riisitunturi is 465 meters.
The national park was established in 1982.
The protected area covers approximately 77 square kilometers.
Up to 3000 kg of snow can rest on a single spruce tree in winter.
The region hosts some of the rarest slope bogs in Europe.
The average temperature in February is around -12 degrees Celsius.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Posio13 km · SEExplore →

Korouoma Valley22 km · WExplore →

Suomutunturi43 km · NExplore →

Khuzdar47 km · NExplore →

Ruka Hill51 km · EExplore →

Valtavaara Hill54 km · EExplore →

Pyhävaara54 km · EExplore →

Syöte57 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is Riisitunturi famous for?

For the spectacular snow-crowned trees in winter.

How do you reach the park?

By car to the parking area in Posio, where the trails start.

Is camping allowed in the national park?

Only at designated spots and near wilderness huts.

Is there a café there?

Only a seasonal kiosk at the parking lot; no dining on the mountain.

Are dogs allowed?

Yes, but they must be kept on a leash throughout the park.

Riisitunturi: where is it located?

Riisitunturi is located in Finland.

Riisitunturi: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Riisitunturi: why is it worth visiting?

Riisitunturi is a prominent fell ridge in southeastern Lapland, near the municipality of Posio, and forms the center of the national park of the same name.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → Most beautiful beaches → OpenStreetMap →