Finnish Lapland During Ruska
Finnish Lapland is a place of enchanting natural beauty, and there is no better time to experience it than during the ruska season. Ruska, the Finnish word for the autumn foliage, transforms the landscape into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows. Amidst this explosion of color, the night sky offers another breathtaking spectacle: the Northern Lights, or aurora borealis. Here’s your guide to hunting the Northern Lights in Lapland during this most colorful time of the year.
The Magic of Ruska
Ruska season in Finnish Lapland typically occurs from mid-September to early October. The forests, hills, and fells are painted with the rich hues of autumn, creating a stunning backdrop for your Northern Lights adventure. The combination of these brilliant fall colors with the ethereal glow of the auroras is a sight that will leave you in awe.
Tips for Seeing the Northern Lights
1. Timing and Conditions:
– Season: The best time to see the Northern Lights in Lapland is from late September to March, with ruska season offering a unique blend of autumn colors and auroras.
– Weather: Clear, dark skies are essential. Check the weather forecast and aurora activity reports. Websites and apps like Aurora Service or My Aurora Forecast can be very helpful.
– Location: Choose spots away from artificial lights. National parks such as Pyhä-Luosto, Urho Kekkonen, and Pallas-Yllästunturi offer excellent viewing conditions.
2. Best Viewing Spots:
– Kilpisjärvi: This remote village is renowned for its high aurora visibility.
– Saariselkä: Located in the heart of Lapland, it offers great facilities and stunning landscapes.
– Rovaniemi: While more urban, it still provides good opportunities if you head just a bit out of town.
3. Stay Flexible:
– Be prepared to move quickly. If the skies clear, head out immediately, as the auroras can be fleeting.
– Renting a car gives you the flexibility to chase clear skies and optimal conditions.
Photography Tips
Capturing the Northern Lights on camera requires some planning and practice. Here are some tips to get you started:
1. Equipment:
– Camera: Use a DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual settings.
– Lens: A wide-angle lens with a large aperture (f/2.8 or lower) works best.
– Tripod: Essential for keeping your camera steady during long exposures.
2. Settings:
– ISO: Start with an ISO setting of 800-3200.
– Aperture: Set your aperture to the widest setting (smallest f-number).
– Shutter Speed: Experiment with exposures between 5 to 25 seconds, depending on the brightness of the auroras.
3. Focus:
– Autofocus struggles in the dark, so set your lens to manual focus and adjust to infinity. Fine-tune by focusing on a distant light source like the moon.
Staying Comfortable
Chasing the Northern Lights often means long hours outdoors in cold conditions. Here’s how to stay warm and comfortable:
1. Clothing:
– Dress in layers. Start with moisture-wicking base layers, add insulating layers, and finish with a waterproof, windproof outer layer.
– Don’t forget warm gloves, a hat, and thermal socks. Here are some suggestions to get you started:
2. Gear:
– Bring a thermos with a hot drink to keep warm.
– Carry a portable chair or mat to sit on while waiting for the auroras.
– Hand warmers can be a lifesaver during long waits.
3. Safety:
– Always let someone know your plans and estimated return time.
– Carry a fully charged phone and a power bank.
– Familiarize yourself with the area to avoid getting lost in the dark.
Experience the cosmic grandeur
Hunting the Northern Lights during ruska in Finnish Lapland is more than just a visual feast; it’s a deeply immersive experience. The tranquil beauty of the autumn landscape combined with the celestial dance of the auroras creates memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re an avid photographer or simply a lover of nature, this is a journey that promises awe and inspiration at every turn.
So pack your bags, set your sights northward, and get ready to witness one of nature’s most spectacular shows against the backdrop of Lapland’s fiery autumn foliage. Happy aurora hunting!
