Good to Know, When to Travel•November 20, 2024•3 Minutes

First Snow in Finland

When is it supposed to snow in Finland? What does “first snow” really mean? Does it stay on the ground or melt away? Let’s dive into the enchanting world of snow and find out! If a white winter holiday is in your dreams, here you’ll find all the information you need to make it a reality.

When Does the First Snow Fall in Finland?

In Finland, the season’s first snow usually graces the landscapes of Lapland. Up north, the first flakes may appear as early as the end of August, dusting the highest fells. The first real, ground-covering snow typically falls a bit later, between late September and early October. For reference, the first snow in 2023 arrived in mid-September, while in 2024, it made its appearance in late September. Below, you’ll find photos of the first snow arriving at Apukka Resort.

First Snowfall at Apukka Resort – 26.10.2022

First Snowfall at Apukka Resort – 11.10.2023

First Snowfall at Apukka Resort – 10.10.2024

First snow at Apukka Resort Rovaniemi Lapland Finland aerial

First Snowfall at Apukka Resort – 21.10.2025

Will the First Snow Stick Around?

The short answer? Usually not. But if that first snow comes later, say in late October, there’s a chance it might stick. The deciding factor is temperature: for snow to stay, daily temperatures need to hold steady at or below 0°C (32°F). Without those freezing temperatures, the snow quickly melts away. And in southern Finland, especially near the coast of the Baltic Sea, the snow is even more likely to turn to rain.

Is There Snow in November in Rovaniemi?

November is the month of transition from autumn to winter. In Rovaniemi, you might experience snowfalls, but it’s still early in the winter season—there may not be snow on the ground just yet. Whether or not it snows, winter activities at Apukka Resort are guaranteed, thanks to stored snow and snow cannons.

First Snowy Activities at Apukka Resort

What Months Have Snow in Finland?

The snowy season varies greatly across Finland. In Lapland, the snow blankets the region for about seven months—more than half the year! In southwestern Finland, however, the snowy season is much shorter, lasting around 100 days. By January, if the Gulf of Finland has frozen, there’s an excellent chance the entire country will have snow cover lasting until at least March.

What about when there’s the most snow? The peak snow cover usually occurs during “Deep Winter,” from late January to March (for most of the country) or early April (in Lapland). Around the Arctic Circle, where Apukka Resort is located, you can expect 25-30 cm (10-12 inches) of snow on the ground, and in a good snow year, even 60-90 cm (24-35 inches).

In Lapland, the snow blankets the region for about seven months—more than half the year!

snowmobiling and ice fishing apukka resort rovaniemi lapland finland

6 Fascinating Snow Facts About Finland

The first snow typically falls in Lapland.
Ground-covering snow usually arrives in late September-early October.
The first snow often melts unless temperatures stay below 0°C (32°F).
In Lapland, the snowy season lasts for about seven months.
Up north, snow depth can reach over 1 meter (about 3 feet), while in the south, it’s usually thinner.
Lapland’s snow cover helps regulate the local climate and protect the Arctic ecosystem.

So, Does Finland Get a Lot of Snow?

Absolutely! Finland—especially Lapland—is renowned as one of the world’s premier winter destinations. Snow not only transforms the landscapes into stunning winter vistas but also creates a playground for unforgettable winter adventures. At Apukka Resort, activities on snow start as early as November, thanks to stored snow and snow cannons. Soon after, as natural snowfall increases, the full range of winter activities opens up, offering more options and longer trails. If you're dreaming of a snow-white winter holiday, we highly recommend checking out our thoughtfully curated packages!