Överkalix – Lapland : Full-Day Snowshoe Tour with Lunch

Överkalix – Lapland: Full-Day Snowshoe Tour with Lunch

If you’re dreaming of stepping into a winter wonderland, this full-day snowshoe tour in Överkalix, Lapland, offers an authentic Arctic experience. For around $194 per person, you’ll spend the day hiking through peaceful forests and wide, snow-laden landscapes, guided by a knowledgeable local. You’ll get the chance to follow animal tracks, possibly spot some wildlife, and finish the day with a hearty outdoor meal cooked over an open fire. It’s a perfect trip for anyone wanting to connect with the wild side of Swedish Lapland and enjoy nature’s quiet beauty.

Two things we really like about this experience are the chance to truly disconnect from everyday life in a setting that feels untouched and the opportunity to learn about local wildlife by tracking animals in the snow. The outdoor lunch, featuring Swedish specialties cooked over a fire, adds a cozy, authentic touch that makes the day memorable.

However, a possible consideration is that this tour requires good physical health and comfort with moderate exertion. It’s not suited for children under 9 or those with limited fitness. Also, transportation to the starting point isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way there.

This experience is ideal for adventurers who enjoy moderate physical activity, nature lovers eager to see wildlife, and those wanting a genuine outdoor experience away from crowded tourist spots. If you’re looking for an immersive day of winter tranquility and learning, this could be your perfect match.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic Experience: Hike through serene forests and snow-covered plains, following animal tracks and spotting wildlife.
• Cultural Touch: Enjoy a traditional Swedish outdoor lunch cooked over an open fire, adding local flavor to your adventure.
• Physical Activity: Suitable for those in good health comfortable with moderate effort; not for low fitness levels.
• Wildlife Watching: Opportunity to observe tracks and possibly sight animals in their natural habitat.
• Flexibility: Keep your plans open with the option to book now and pay later; cancellation is possible 24 hours beforehand.
• No Included Transportation: Be prepared to arrange your own transfer to the tour’s starting point.

A Deep Dive into the Snowshoe Experience

An Introduction to the Tour

Starting in Norrbotten County, Sweden, this full-day snowshoe tour offers an active way to experience Lapland’s winter beauty. It runs in the heart of the Lapland wilderness near Överkalix, an area famed for its pristine landscapes and abundant wildlife. The tour is hosted by Boreal Pack Adventure, a company with a reputation for authentic Arctic adventures.

At a cost of $194, the price includes snowshoes and an outdoor lunch, making it a quite reasonable option considering the full day of physical activity and unique experiences. While transportation isn’t included, this adds flexibility—many travelers find it easy to rent a car or organize local transport.

What the Day Looks Like

The day begins with meeting your guide, who will provide snowshoeing equipment and a quick safety briefing. The trail is described as moderate, suitable for those in good health and comfortable with physical effort. If you’re worried about fitness, it’s worth considering that the trail involves a fair amount of walking over uneven snow, but it’s not overly strenuous.

Once suited up, you’ll set out into peaceful forests where the snow muffles sound, creating a true sense of isolation and tranquility. Here, follow animal tracks — perhaps rabbit, fox, or even reindeer — and listen for signs of local wildlife. Our guides have a knack for pointing out subtle clues that reveal which animals have recently passed through. As one reviewer put it, “We loved the way our guide explained the tracks and wildlife signs—it made us feel like part of the forest.”

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The Wildlife and Tracking

One of the tour’s highlights is the chance to spot wildlife or at least imagine the lives of those animals through their footprints. You may find tracks of reindeer, fox, hare, or even elk, depending on the season and luck. The guides are keen to share their knowledge of Lapland’s ecosystem and how animals adapt to winter’s challenges. “It’s like a treasure hunt,” says a past participant, “finding these clues in the snow and trying to match them to the animals we learned about.”

The Outdoor Lunch

Midway through the day, everyone gathers around a campfire for a well-earned break. Here, you’ll be served a traditional Swedish outdoor lunch, which includes hearty local specialties cooked right on the flames. The experience of eating hot, freshly cooked food in the middle of the wilderness, with snow all around, is surprisingly cozy and satisfying. Several reviewers appreciated this part, describing it as “a delicious, rustic meal that felt like a true Scandinavian wilderness experience.”

The Return and Reflection

After lunch, the group continues exploring, perhaps heading toward a vantage point or just soaking in the stillness and beauty of the snow-covered landscape. The tour concludes in the late afternoon, leaving you with a sense of accomplishment and a handful of stories about tracking animals and enjoying nature’s quiet.

What Travelers Say

Participants often comment on how peaceful and rejuvenating the experience is. One noted, “It was a perfect way to disconnect from screens and noise, and just enjoy the silence of snow.” Others mention the quality of the snowshoes and how they appreciated the clear instructions and friendly guides who made the experience accessible even for beginners.

Practical Considerations

What to bring is simple: comfortable shoes, warm clothing, snacks, and water. Since smoking and alcohol aren’t allowed, it’s all about a clean, respectful outdoor experience. Keep in mind that you’ll need to dress in layers: think insulated jackets, thermal wear, and waterproof outer layers. The tour is suitable for those with good fitness levels, and children under 9 are not permitted.

The Value of the Tour

Considering the price, you get a full day of outdoor activity, guided wildlife insights, and an authentic Swedish meal. The small group size ensures a personalized experience, and the chance to see and follow animal tracks adds an educational layer often missing from more commercial winter tours.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re a nature enthusiast or someone eager to experience Lapland’s wilderness on foot, this is a great choice. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy moderate physical activity and outdoor cooking. It’s also ideal for those wanting a quiet, scenic day away from crowds, with the bonus of learning about local wildlife. If you’re traveling with children over 9 who are active and comfortable outdoors, they might also enjoy it.

Who Might Not Be a Fit?

People with lower fitness levels or those who prefer less physical activity might find this tour challenging. Also, if you’re unprepared for cold weather or don’t like walking in snow, it may not suit you. Remember, transportation isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation to the start point included?
No, transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way there.

What should I wear?
Bring warm clothing, including insulated jackets, thermal layers, waterproof outerwear, and comfortable shoes suitable for snow.

Can children participate?
Not under 9 years old; the tour requires good fitness and comfort with moderate physical activity.

How long is the tour?
It’s a full day, allowing plenty of time to explore, follow tracks, and enjoy a meal.

What’s included in the price?
Snowshoeing equipment and an outdoor lunch cooked over a fire, featuring Swedish specialties.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, as long as you’re in good health and comfortable with moderate effort; the trail is described as moderate.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Will I see wildlife?
While wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, the focus on tracking animal signs means you’ll gain insight into local fauna.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The guides speak English and French.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the terrain and nature of snowshoeing mean it’s best suited for those with good mobility.

Final Thoughts

This full-day snowshoe tour in Överkalix offers a genuine taste of Lapland’s winter wilderness. It’s a wonderful choice for travelers eager to combine physical activity with cultural insights in a setting that feels remarkably quiet and pristine. The experience’s focus on tracking wildlife, enjoying traditional outdoor Swedish cuisine, and simply soaking in the wintry silence makes it stand out from more commercialized tours.

If you’re visiting Norrbotten County and want to experience the Arctic’s natural beauty firsthand, this tour delivers that in spades. It’s best suited for active travelers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful escape into nature. Just plan ahead for transportation, dress warmly, and get ready for a day that could become one of your most memorable Arctic adventures.

Note: Always confirm the latest details directly with the tour provider, Boreal Pack Adventure, as offerings and conditions can change seasonally.

You can check availability for your dates here: