Epic autumn photos from Finland

3 minute read
Northern lights over a lake.

Autumn – vibrant colours and season's first northern lights

Finnish autumn is a season of captivating transformation. As the warmth of summer gives way to cooler temperatures, the lush green landscapes begin to turn into a mesmerizing canvas of autumn colors. The vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold paint the trees and forests across the country. As the nights grow longer, the Finnish skies offer the possibility of witnessing the season's first northern lights. Autumn is also a great season to spot unique wildlife!

In this article, we've collected some of the most epic autumn photos from Finland from different photographers and our followers on social media. Enjoy!

Article published in September, 2023.

Northern lights can be seen anywhere in Finland

The northern lights season in Finland starts in September. Autumn is actually one of the best times to spot the auroras. The likeliest chance of seeing these magical lights is in Lapland but sometimes you'll be able to spot them also in the south, like the Helsinki region.

Vibrant autumn hues from the forest floor to the treetops

When you think of autumn foliage, you'll often think about the leaves in trees changing colours. In northern Finland, you'll find another autumn phenomenon we like to call "maaruska" – the plants on the open ground turning into fields of bright red and yellow.

Unforgettable season to go on a ruska hike

Autumn, especially September-October, is one of the most popular times to go on a hiking trip in Finland. Particularly the northern parts of the country and its many national parks will see plenty of visitors during this time. And what's not to love: fresh, crisp air, autumn foliage as far as the eye can see, and if – you're lucky – the auroras!

Unique time to spot wildlife before winter arrives

Autumn in Finland is a photographer's dream when it comes to wildlife spotting. It's the season when brown bears tirelessly forage in preparation for winter hibernation, and reindeer can be spotted in the midst of the changing colours in Lapland's fells. Birdwatchers are in for a treat too, with migratory birds making their way south, creating fantastic opportunities for birdwatching. For more information about guided bear watching trips, visit our product page.

This enchanting photo of a willow grouse was taken by Aki Mikkola in Lapland's Saariselkä in September 2023.
Niko Laurila was able to catch this autumn image of a brown bear while in a wildlife hide in Lakeland's Kuhmo region, famous for its many bear-watching opportunities and tours.

Autumn foliage is unmissable also in cities

In addition to the wilderness, autumn in Finnish cities is also a time of breathtaking transformation as the vibrant summer greens give way to a rich palette of fiery reds, oranges, and yellows. Strolling through the urban landscapes, you'll be captivated by the sight of trees lining the streets, their canopies ablaze with autumn foliage. In Helsinki, visit places like Käpylä and the Töölönlahti Bay, for spectacular views. Elsewhere in Finland, locations like the old wooden towns and ironworks villages of the coastal region, are a must-see!

Old wooden cities, like Porvoo, provide the perfect backdrop to autumn foliage. Niko Laurila took this image in his hometown at one of his favourite places, Näsinmäki Hill.
Töölönlahti Bay in the centre of Helsinki is one of the best places to go ruska-spotting in October.

See also

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