The best cycling routes around Lapland

Lapland offers a wide array of touring cycling routes, with over 200 options recorded on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 126 easy, 63 moderate, and 27 difficult trails.

The optimal time for touring cycling in Lapland is typically in August and September. During these months, there is no snow, and the autumn foliage, known as 'ruska,' creates vibrant colors. May can also offer good conditions in some areas. While June and July feature the Midnight Sun, be prepared for mosquitoes, which can be prevalent in swampy regions.

Lapland's touring cycling routes traverse diverse terrain, characterized by vast forests, rolling hills, and numerous rivers and lakes. You'll find everything from remote gravel roads to established trails within national parks like Pallas-Yllästunturi and Pyhä-Luosto. Routes can include fells, offering varied elevation profiles, and both paved and unpaved surfaces.

Yes, Lapland offers many routes suitable for less experienced touring cyclists. There are 126 easy routes available, providing gentler terrain and shorter distances. While specific easy routes are not highlighted here, you can find many suitable options on komoot.

Touring cycling in Lapland offers several unique experiences. During June and July, you can cycle under the

Midnight Sun, where the sun never sets, allowing for extended rides. From late August, especially in September, there's a chance to witness the spectacular

Northern Lights. Additionally, many routes allow you to cross the Arctic Circle, a significant geographical highlight.

Yes, Lapland is home to several options for longer rides. The Central Lapland Gravel Loop is an extensive 1140km bikepacking route. A moderate section of the international EuroVelo 13 - Iron Curtain Trail: Ivalo - Saariselkä also runs through remote Finnish Lapland, covering about 31.4 km.

Lapland's routes often pass by stunning natural landmarks and points of interest. You might encounter various huts and cabins, such as Aurora Hut, Urho Kekkonen National Park or Luulampi Hut. Natural monuments include summits like Kiilopää Summit and Iisakkipää Summit, or unique geological formations like Karhunpesäkivi (Bear's Nest Stone) Cave.

Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Lapland offers 27 difficult routes. One notable option is the Ylläs-Levi MTB Trail, a demanding 58.1 km path connecting two major fells with extensive views and challenging sections. Another is the Kukastunturi Bike Trail, an 29.8 km trail with significant elevation gain.

Bike rentals are widely available across Lapland, including mountain bikes and fatbikes. You can find rental services and guided tours in popular locations such as Rovaniemi and Saariselkä. Electric fatbikes are also an option for easier navigation of varied terrains.

Lapland is well-equipped to support touring cyclists, especially for multi-day adventures. The region provides abundant wilderness cabins, campfire huts, and lean-tos for public use, making overnight stays comfortable and safe. While some areas are remote and require self-sufficiency, service centers and small villages with amenities can be found along many routes.

The touring cycling routes in Lapland are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 100 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's pristine Arctic landscapes, the unique experience of the Midnight Sun, and the well-developed network of trails that cater to various skill levels.

Yes, Lapland offers several circular touring cycling routes. For example, the Marjavaara Loop is a moderate 22.5 km circular route, perfect for a day trip. Another option is the Kesänkijärven polkaisu – Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park, a moderate 13.5 km loop.

While the optimal season is late summer and early autumn, cycling in Lapland is possible year-round. Fatbikes, with their wide tires, enable cycling even on snowy trails. Electric fatbikes are also available, making winter cycling more accessible. The Ounasvaara Winter Biking Trail is an example of a route designed for winter conditions.