Ruka Ski Area

Ruka Ski Area featuring forests, rapids and rafting
Ruka Ski Area featuring forests, rapids and rafting
Ruka Ski Area featuring snowboarding and snow
Ruka Ski Area featuring land animals and forest scenes
Ruka Ski Area featuring a small town or village, night scenes and snow


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 favorites 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 accommodations to the mountains.

Popular places to visit


Top Ruka Ski Area Hotel Deals

Scandic Rukahovi

Scandic Rukahovi

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

Ski-Inn RukaValley

4 out of 5
Bistrotie 2 Kuusamo
Ski-Inn RukaValley
Ski-Inn RukaVillage

Ski-Inn RukaVillage

4 out of 5
Rukankyläntie 6 Kuusamo
Ski-Inn RukaVillage
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
Snowflake b 24 by Interhome

Snowflake b 24 by Interhome

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

Talvitähti c 37 by Interhome

Kuusamo Northern Ostrobothnia
Talvitähti c 37 by Interhome
Vuosselinhelmi c6 by Interhome

Vuosselinhelmi c6 by Interhome

Kuusamo Northern Ostrobothnia
Vuosselinhelmi c6 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

Shopping

If you're up for a drive, Oulanka National Park is a shopping mall located 33.8km from Ruka Ski Area. This vibrant spot offers a mix of business, entertainment, and family-friendly activities, allowing you to find unique gifts and souvenirs while soaking in the local atmosphere.

Recreation

Kuusamo Park is a tranquil recreational area located 22.5km from Ruka Ski Area. Embrace the wellness and relaxation vibes as you explore its scenic trails, breathe in the fresh air, and unwind amidst nature's beauty, making it an ideal retreat for rejuvenation and peace.

Adventure

At Rukatunturi Ski Jumping Hill, experience the thrill of ski jumping with breathtaking views. Etutuoli offers exhilarating skiing adventures, perfect for adrenaline seekers. For those who prefer hiking, the Karhunkierros Trail provides stunning scenery and a chance to immerse yourself in the pristine Finnish wilderness.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Ruka Ski Area offers a vibrant blend of après-ski fun and cosy bars. Enjoy a drink at the Ruka Village Bar, then dance the night away at Club Ruka. For a relaxed evening, visit the Ruka Ski Resort lounge for warm drinks and stunning views.

*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 is one of Finland's most popular ski resorts, renowned for its excellent skiing facilities and beautiful landscapes. The ski season typically runs from October to May, offering ample opportunity for winter sports enthusiasts. In addition to skiing, visitors can explore nearby nature reserves, providing a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in the stunning Finnish wilderness.

  • Juhannuskallion Nature Reserve: A stunning natural area located a mere 1.1km from Ruka Ski Area, Juhannuskallion offers tranquil hiking trails and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. This reserve is ideal for observing diverse wildlife and experiencing the serene beauty of Finnish nature.
  • Valtavaaran Nature Reserve: Situated 3.2km from Ruka Ski Area, Valtavaaran is known for its diverse ecosystems and picturesque vistas. Enjoy hiking through lush forests and discover unique flora and fauna, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts.
  • Pyhavaaran Nature Reserve: Also located 3.2km away from Ruka Ski Area, Pyhavaaran features striking rock formations and panoramic views. This reserve offers a peaceful retreat for visitors, with well-marked trails and opportunities for birdwatching and photography.

Best time to go to Ruka Ski Area

The best time to visit Ruka Ski Area can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Ruka Ski Area falls in July, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Ruka Ski Area falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is very cloudy with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January12.4°F (-10.9°C)No RainVery CloudyAverageSlightly High
February14.5°F (-9.7°C)No RainVery CloudyModerately HighAverage
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 CloudyModerately LowSlightly 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 CloudyAverageAverage
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.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.