Good to Know, When to Travel•May 8, 2025•5 Minutes

Lapland in October: The Frost-Kissed Autumn

Is October a good time to travel to Lapland? Is there snow? What about the Northern Lights? In this blog post, we’ll explore all things Lappish October. As a month, it still firmly belongs to the autumn season—specifically, its colder half. If you’re someone who enjoys the outdoors and embraces crisp, refreshing weather, October in Lapland might be just what you're looking for.

Is There Snow in Lapland in October?

Usually, in the capital of Lapland—Rovaniemi, where Apukka Resort is located—October marks the month of the first snowfall. In 2022, it arrived on the 26th; in 2023, on the 11th; and in 2024, on the 10th. However, this early snow typically doesn’t stay for long, unless temperatures consistently remain below 0°C (32°F). So rather than being known for deep snow, October in Lapland is better described as the chillier side of autumn. That’s exactly why it’s a favorite time for many hikers and eFatbikers.

October is no stranger to snowfall — Apukka Resort, 11.10.2023

A fleeting veil of white — Apukka Resort, 10.10.2024

What Is the Weather Like in Lapland in October?

The weather in October changes noticeably throughout the month. Early October can still feel relatively mild, but temperatures drop steadily as the weeks progress. The average October temperature in Rovaniemi ranges between 0°C and 10°C (32°F to 50°F). While many associate autumn with rainy days, Lapland usually receives less rainfall in October than during the summer months. Daylight hours also begin to shorten, averaging about nine hours of light per day.

Are There Northern Lights in Lapland in October?

October is a great time to see the Northern Lights in Lapland. The Aurora Borealis season begins as early as late August and continues all the way through to early April. While the entire winter period offers chances to witness this magical phenomenon, autumn–particularly September and early October–stands out as one of the best times for Aurora viewing.

Why? Statistically, the Northern Lights are most active around the equinoxes, which occur in late September and March. During these periods, geomagnetic activity tends to peak, increasing the likelihood of blazing Auroras. In October, nights are already long and dark enough, yet the temperatures remain quite comfortable, especially when compared to the colder months.

Autumn Northern Lights Tours

What to Do in Lapland in October

At Apukka Resort, autumn activities are in full swing by October, offering guests a chance to experience a different side of Lapland. Ever dreamed of meeting huskies up close and learning about their daily lives? You can do exactly that—and exciting rides on husky-drawn wheeled carts are also available. What a fun alternative to the traditional winter sled ride!

Reindeer and horses also feature in our seasonal programs, giving visitors the opportunity to connect with these iconic Arctic animals in a relaxed, authentic setting.

As mentioned earlier, October is a wonderful time for hiking. Apukka offers a range of options, from guided adventures to peaceful, self-guided treks through the colorful autumn landscape. And don’t forget our brand-new 2-kilometer walking trail, which starts right at the resort. It’s completely free for guests and perfect for a refreshing stroll in the crisp Lappish air.

Take a look at the activities you can enjoy at Apukka Resort during October:

Are You Ready for an October Holiday?

If you’ve been wondering whether October is a good time to visit Lapland, we hope we’ve given you plenty of reasons to say yes. We love this month because every day brings something new—whether it’s shifting colors, crisp air, or the first dusting of snow. And what’s better than admiring this change from the comfort of your cozy accommodation, like a glass igloo or a lakeview suite?

With Apukka’s wide selection of activities, the only real question is—do you have a good pair of softshell or hiking pants ready for outdoor fun?

To make planning easy, we’ve gathered all our October holiday packages in one place. Each package includes your chosen accommodation, exciting activities, and a mouthwatering daily buffet breakfast.