When Does Snow Come to Rovaniemi?

If you are planning to visit Rovaniemi this winter, you’ve probably wondered: when does snow come to Rovaniemi? Knowing what winter and snow activities are possible during your visit is essential to the entire experience, after all.

The arrival of snow changes the entire landscape from green to white, makes Santa Claus Village sparkle with lights, and allows you to enjoy winter sports like back-country skiing, snowshoeing, winter hiking, and riding in a sled pulled by reindeer or huskies.

In this post, we’ll dive into the stages of snowfall, the different phases of winter in Finland, average snowfall and snow depth in Rovaniemi, and how much snow you really need to enjoy our favourite Arctic activities.

The First Snow in Rovaniemi

Unsurprisingly, snowfall in Rovaniemi doesn’t arrive on the same day every year – or even in the same month! The first snowflakes usually fall in late October or early November, dusting the ground with a thin white layer. Locals define “the first snow” as the first, thin layer of snow that stays on the ground for at least a day. This snow may still melt away, only to return again and again, until a proper snowfall combined with colder temperatures means it sticks around for good.

Permanent Snow Cover

So, when does the permanent snow cover arrive? In Rovaniemi, this usually happens in late November or early December.

In the winter of 2024-2025, permanent snow cover in Rovaniemi was achieved in early December, whereas the year before (2023), winter started in full force already on the 9th of October, with heavy snowfall that covered all of Lapland – and it didn’t melt until April!

When the snow no longer melts away, it starts to build up, becoming thicker as the winter wears on. The landscape gradually gains its sparkling white blanket, covering forests, lakes, and the roofs of houses and cabins. For visitors to Finnish Lapland, this is the Rovaniemi familiar from postcards and travel reels.

The Different Stages of Winter in Rovaniemi

Winter in Finland isn’t just one season—it has distinct phases, each with its own character.

During first snow (October–November), light snowfalls come and go, and the temperatures hover around freezing. During this time, winter activities are limited, but you get a preview of the winter.

When the winter truly starts, (late November–December), permanent snow cover starts to form, and the snow depth increases steadily. This is a popular time to visit Rovaniemi, especially around Christmas. Most winter sports are possible, but conditions may vary. For example, snowmobiling and skiing are best enjoyed with at least 15-20 cm of snow on the ground.

In the deep winter (January–February), snow depth in Rovaniemi and surrounding areas reaches its maximum. The days are still short, but daylight hours increase quickly after mid-January. This is an ideal time to try skiing, snowshoeing, and enjoying longer hikes in the beautiful national parks in Lapland.

The spring-winter (March–April) is characterized by bright sunshine, longer days, and plenty of snow. This is also a great time for ice fishing! Snow is still deep but firmer on the surface, and therefore perfect for outdoor activities. Lakes and rivers are solidly frozen, with over 1 meter of ice in most places. Many locals consider this the best time of year to enjoy winter activities in Rovaniemi.

Finally, the melting season (Late April–May) sees the snow depth decreases rapidly as the landscape shifts into spring and nature starts to wake from hibernation.

Average Snowfall and Depth in Rovaniemi

The snowy part of the winter can last from 6-7 months, and Rovaniemi typically receives 150–200 cm of snowfall per winter. Don’t worry – all this snow doesn’t fall all at once (although sometimes, we can get up to 30 cm of snow in a single day)

Snowfall is one thing, but snow depth also matters for many activities in Rovaniemi. In December the snow depth is usually between 20–40 cm. In the deep winter of January–February, the snow depth its maximum depth, sometimes more. n March–April, there snow depth stays high, but the surface of the snow is more compact and durable. Great for hiking and makes for spectacular outdoor photography opportunities! By comparison, the snowiest regions further north in Lapland (like Kilpisjärvi or Saariselkä) may see even more snow, and last even longer.

Snow in Rovaniemi isn’t just about quantity—it’s also about the atmosphere. The snow here is often dry, light, and powdery thanks to the climate. The long polar nights make the snow sparkle under moonlight and auroras, while in spring, sunshine reflects off the snow with dazzling brightness.

Snow and Winter Sports

The amount of snow you actually need for winter sports in Rovaniemi depends a lot of the activity.

Skiing tracks and ski slopes can open with as little as 20 cm of snow. Many ski resorts also use artificial snow to guarantee an early start to the season. When the snow comes to Rovaniemi, the most enthusiastic skiers are out on the very first day.

Snowmobiling requires firm, stable snow cover, and is usually possible from mid-December onwards in Rovaniemi.

Husky and reindeer rides begin as soon as there is enough snow on the ground for sleds to run smoothly—often by mid-December at the latest.

Hiking can be enjoyed at any time during the winter. Snowshoeing is a great way to explore nature and areas with deep, soft snow.

Northern Lights photography tours do not depend on snow, but the snowy, reflective landscape can enhance the experience even more.

 In short, snow comes to Rovaniemi when the first flakes appear in late October or early November, but the true winter season begins with permanent snow cover in late November or early December. Then, from December until April, Rovaniemi offers a reliable snowy landscape perfect for winter adventures.

Whether you’re dreaming of meeting Santa in a snowy forest, gliding across forest trails on skis, or watching the Northern Lights over a frozen lake, all of this is possible in Rovaniemi.

See you soon!