Q&A ABOUT ICE
Important notification!
It is dangerous and forbidden to walk on the river ice in Rovaniemi. The ice is very thin and the current underneath is extremely strong. Falling through the ice can be life-threatening.
Q&A ABOUT ICE
What if the river and ice look white and there is no visible water?
The Arctic nature can be beautiful but misleading. Sometimes an area that looks completely safe, or has been safe before, changes dramatically when the weather changes. Temperature, the amount of snowfall and rapid changes in the weather can make the surface of ice and snow change completely. For example, a river or a lake might look frozen, but a layer of snow on top can make the ice look thicker than it actually is.
Is the ice the same every year?
From year to year, temperatures can change significantly and so does the ice. If it has been warmer than usual, the river ice may not freeze as quickly and be as safe as in previous years. At times, more water than usual may be released into the river to support electricity production needs, and as a result, the ice may not thicken properly.
Is the ice safe in some places and not safe in others?
It is impossible to know whether the ice is thick enough, and you should never test it yourself. Due to changes in nature, known safe spots can also change within days and weeks. The same uncertainty applies to locals living in Rovaniemi even though they know the area and might be more equipped to test the thickness of the ice. In other words, one step on the ice might be safe, when the next is unsafe.
Can I go onto the ice with a local guide?
We recommend that both locals and visitors are extremely careful with the ice in Rovaniemi. There are safaris and guided tours, such as snowmobile trips across icy lakes or ice fishing excursions, that local companies organise safely. Local companies and tour operators are familiar with the ice conditions and you can trust that responsible companies always keep you safe. Browse available activities here.
How can I safely experience the ice?
Never, under any circumstances, go onto the ice by yourself or let your kids play on the ice if you are not familiar with the area. Please book a tour with a guide, the local guides know where it is safe to access the ice.
Read our tips and articles about ice activities:
- Ice cool adventures in the Arctic capital of Lapland
- Icebreaker cruise and swimming in icy Arctic waters
- Rovaniemi snow and ice special
Stay safe on your holiday while enjoying the winter!