Autumn foliage "Ruska" is the favourite season for many Lapland travellers — and for good reason. When September arrives, the nights grow darker, the air turns pleasantly crisp, and the fells glow in countless shades of red, orange and yellow. The conditions are ideal for hiking, and for many visitors the first destination is the summit of Ukko-Luosto. Its viewpoint offers a front‑row seat to admire the autumn colours.
Nestled in a peaceful pine forest just below the summit sits the Ukko-Luosto scenic hut. Surrounded by colourful undergrowth, it’s the perfect place to enjoy snacks, make a fire and admire the rugged fell slopes. From the windy summit, you can continue your journey to the Tikkalaavu lean‑to for another cosy fireside break.
Family friedly trails can be found in Luosto. Rykimäkero is easily reached from the parking area along Tunturitie Road; the path from the car park to the fire site is accessible also by wheelchair and with strollers. The 2.8 km Ahvenlampi trail, located next to Lapland Hotels Luostotunturi, is another easy‑to‑reach route where you can make a fire, enjoy your snacks and even try fishing — just remember to purchase a fishing permit from Eraluvat.fi.
Lampivaara Amethyst Mine – A Sparkling Stop Along the Way
For something different alongside your autumn hiking, visit the Lampivaara Amethyst Mine, which can be reached only by muscle power — either by bike or on foot. Once there, you can dig up your own lucky stone straight from the fell and enjoy a warm drink in the mine’s cosy café.
…and in the Night Sky
In autumn, the colours appear not only on the ground but also in the sky. Many people think the best time to see the northern lights is midwinter, but in reality, they are most active in autumn and spring. The aurora season begins already in late August.
Pyhä–Luosto offers a free Aurora Alert! service, which you can install on your phone. You’ll receive a notification the moment Luosto’s own aurora sensor detects northern lights in the sky. Spotting them couldn’t be easier!
A Rush of Speed…
You can also admire nature’s colours from the saddle of a bike. Mountain biking continues to grow in popularity, and Luosto is well prepared for it. The Pyhä–Luosto area offers more than 100 km of cycle‑friendly trails, and you don’t need to have your own bike with you — you can rent a regular or electric fatbike in Luosto.
If your need for speed isn’t satisfied yet, head to nearby fell Pyhä for even more riding options.
…and Unique Nature Experiences
Sometimes the best moments come when you slow down, relax and marvel at the wonders of nature. Luosto’s old forests offer unforgettable encounters — some of the oldest trees are more than 400 years old. At a lean‑to, you might even be joined by our signature bird of our national park the Siberian jay, a friendly resident of the old conifer forests.
After a day full of activities, your body and mind will crave rest. A private sauna in your cabin is one option, but hotel guests have plenty of relaxation opportunities too. At the Luosto Amethyst Spa, you can unwind in warm pools and later enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the area’s restaurants.
