The Northern Lights are an unforgettable spectacle of northern nature, when the sky ignites in shades of green, violet, and sometimes even red. In Koli, you too can witness this magical phenomenon – in landscapes unlike anywhere else.
When can you see the Northern Lights?
In Koli, the Northern Lights can be seen from September to March, when the nights grow dark and the starry sky spreads over Lake Pielinen. The best chances are usually around midnight, but it’s worth keeping an eye on the sky already from 9 p.m. until the early hours. The most important factor is clear weather – only on cloudless nights does the celestial light show reveal its full glory. Before heading out, check both the weather forecast and the aurora forecast to know when it’s time to lift your gaze to the heavens.
Tips for Northern Lights hunters
- Download an aurora app or follow online forecasts.
- Dress warmly and bring a thermos of something hot – it’s worth waiting in comfort for nature’s wonders.
- Switch off all unnecessary lights and find a spot with as little light pollution as possible – the darker the night, the brighter the auroras.
- Don’t forget your camera! Auroras are best captured with a tripod and a long exposure.
Best places to see the Northern Lights in Koli
- Ukko-Koli – from the summit, the sky opens endlessly towards the horizon.
- Räsävaara Observation Tower (Räsävaaran näkötorni) – from the top, you can take in the surrounding Koli landscape while the night sky unfolds in all its grandeur.
- Ryläys Observation Tower (Ryläyksen näkötorni) – reaching it requires a bit more effort, but the views and potential auroras are a rewarding prize. If you’re heading to Ryläys, wear sturdy shoes and bring a headlamp, as the trail is demanding and not maintained in winter.
- Lake Pielinen shores – for example, from Merilänranta (Hiekkaniementie 12, Koli) you’ll have a fine view over the lake. In winter, an ice road starts here, with ski trails and an ice-skating route running alongside it – perfect spots to pause and gaze at the sky.
- On the frozen lake in winter – the view stretches in every direction. Why not take a thermos and some snacks and head out for a Northern Lights ski trip? Just remember to bring safety picks and a headlamp.
- There are also many other great viewing spots on Koli’s peaks and peaceful forest clearings – wherever the night is dark and the sky wide open.
Snowshoe Adventure in the Dark
Experience the magical atmosphere of Koli’s winter nights on a guided snowshoe hike! This unforgettable trip takes you through the beautiful landscapes and forest trails of Koli National Park, where the silence and darkness of winter create a truly unique mood. On clear nights, we’ll pause to admire the starry sky – and if we’re lucky, we might even witness the colorful dance of the Northern Lights.
The tour starts in front of the Koli Nature Centre Ukko and follows a scenic route across the famous peaks and through the forests of Kolinuuro. Along the way, we take breaks to sense the surrounding darkness, while your wilderness guide shares stories about Koli’s history, nature, and its significance to Finnish cultural heritage.
No previous experience with snowshoeing is needed! You’ll receive sturdy, easy-to-use snowshoes and a powerful Lumonite headlamp, which make it safe and comfortable to explore even the more challenging terrain. The route includes some elevation changes that add adventure to the experience, but the pace is kept moderate – this is an active outing, yet suitable for most participants.
This trip is the perfect way to combine exercise, winter beauty, and the magic of Northern Lights watching!
