The best outdoor activities in Levi

Discover Levi: Outdoor Adventures in the Heart of Finnish Lapland

Imagine the crunch of fresh snow beneath your boots, the crisp air sparkling with ice crystals, and the soft glow of the Northern Lights sweeping across a star-filled sky. This is Levi, the largest ski resort in Finland and one of Lapland’s most enchanting gateways to Arctic adventures. Whether you visit in the deep quiet of winter or the endless daylight of summer, Levi is a place where nature takes centre stage, inviting you to step outside and explore.

Introduction to Levi

Levi lies above the Arctic Circle, in the municipality of Kittilä, and is surrounded by pristine wilderness, frozen lakes, and pine forests that stretch as far as the eye can see. Known for its modern ski infrastructure, Levi is more than just a winter sports hub. It is also a year-round destination where visitors can connect with the Sámi culture, experience Arctic wildlife, and immerse themselves in Lapland’s unique rhythm of life.

The atmosphere here feels both remote and welcoming. You are far north, yet everything is within reach: well-maintained slopes, cosy lodges, and a lively village centre filled with cafés and saunas.

Outdoor Activities in Levi

The question of what to do in Levi has no simple answer, because the list of activities is wonderfully long. This is a place where you can try iconic Arctic experiences alongside peaceful outdoor pursuits.

Winter Adventures

In winter, skiing and snowboarding are at the heart of Levi. With over 40 slopes and an extensive network of cross-country skiing tracks, both beginners and seasoned riders will find their ideal run. Night skiing under floodlit slopes adds an extra layer of magic.

Snowmobiling is another highlight, taking you across frozen rivers and deep into the forests where the silence of the Arctic is broken only by the hum of the engine. For something slower but no less thrilling, try husky sledding or a reindeer safari. Sitting under warm blankets while gliding through the snow, guided by eager huskies or gentle reindeer, is one of those unforgettable Lapland moments.

Of course, Levi is also one of the best places to chase the Northern Lights. Local guides lead tours on snowshoes, skis, or snowmobiles, away from village lights, giving you the best chance of seeing the sky dance in shades of green and violet.

Summer and Autumn Adventures

When the snow melts, Levi transforms into a playground for hiking, biking, and fishing. Trails wind up Levi Fell, rewarding hikers with panoramic views over Lapland’s forests and lakes. The mountain biking routes range from easy loops to challenging downhill tracks.

In summer, the Midnight Sun gives you nearly 24 hours of daylight, allowing you to wander at any time of day. Anglers will find plenty of opportunities in the rivers and lakes around Levi, while autumn brings the ruska season, when the landscape glows in fiery reds and oranges, perfect for photography and peaceful walks.

Unique Experiences

Levi also offers activities that bring you closer to Lapland’s traditions and wildlife. Visit a Sámi reindeer farm to learn about herding culture, or head out with a guide for berry picking and foraging in the forest. For a soothing end to any day, relax in an outdoor hot tub or traditional smoke sauna, perhaps with snowflakes falling around you.

Local Tips

Winter in Levi can be extremely cold, with temperatures dropping below –20°C, so layering your clothing is essential. Wool base layers, thermal socks, and insulated gloves make all the difference. Most activity providers will lend extra outerwear, but it is worth bringing your own warm essentials.

Respecting nature is a key part of any trip to Lapland. Stay on marked trails, avoid disturbing wildlife, and be mindful of the fragile Arctic ecosystem. If you plan to photograph the Northern Lights, carry a tripod and be ready for sudden bursts of colour.

Best Time to Visit Levi

Levi is a true year-round destination, but the experience changes dramatically with the seasons.

• Winter (November to April): Ideal for skiing, snowmobiling, and aurora hunting. December and January bring polar night, when the sun does not rise, creating a magical twilight atmosphere.
• Spring (April to May): Longer days, sunnier weather, and excellent snow conditions. A favourite time for locals to ski.
• Summer (June to August): Perfect for hiking, cycling, fishing, and enjoying the Midnight Sun. The light never fades, which feels surreal and energising.
• Autumn (September to October): Known for ruska, when the leaves turn brilliant colours. A quieter season with fewer visitors, ideal for hikers and photographers.

How to Get There

Levi is easy to reach despite its northern location. The nearest airport is Kittilä, just 15 kilometres from Levi village, with regular flights from Helsinki and seasonal connections from other European cities. From the airport, transfers and taxis are straightforward.

If you prefer the scenic route, night trains from Helsinki run to Rovaniemi and Kolari. From there, buses connect to Levi. Driving is also an option, with well-maintained roads leading into Lapland, though winter conditions can be challenging.

Levi is more than a ski resort. It is a place where you can witness the raw beauty of Lapland, from dancing lights in the winter sky to endless summer days filled with outdoor discovery. Whether you are gliding through snowy forests on a husky sled, pedalling along mountain trails in the midnight sun, or simply enjoying the silence of the Arctic wilderness, Levi invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and feel the power of the far north.