Just south-west of Ruka lies one of Finnish Lapland's most surreal winter sights: Riisitunturi National Park, where deep snow bends the spruce trees into ghostly white sculptures known as tykky, or crown snow-load.
It's one of the most photogenic winter landscapes in Finland — and an easy day out from Ruka.
The famous snow-laden trees
Riisitunturi's fells catch heavy, wet snow that clings to the spruces until they buckle into strange, hunched shapes. On a clear day the frozen forest against a pink Arctic sky is unforgettable, and the fell tops give sweeping views over frozen Lake Kitka.
Getting there from Ruka
Riisitunturi is roughly 30–45 minutes from Ruka by car, near Posio. There's a car park and marked winter trails; snowshoes are recommended when the snow is deep.
Best time to visit
The snow-load is at its best from January to March, once heavy snow has accumulated. Go on a clear, calm day for the best photos and views.
Combine with the aurora
Spend the day among the snow trees, then join an evening aurora hunt back near Ruka — the open fells here also make superb dark-sky aurora spots.