What should I know about Lapland’s autumn weather for horse riding trips?
Lapland’s autumn weather is characterised by a beautiful yet challenging transition from summer to winter, with temperatures typically ranging from +10°C in early autumn to around freezing by late autumn. During September and October, the ruska season transforms Lapland’s forests into a spectacular palette of red, orange, and yellow foliage, creating a magical backdrop for horse riding adventures.
Days gradually become shorter throughout autumn, with daylight hours noticeably decreasing by October. Morning frost becomes common, particularly in early mornings when you might begin your horse riding excursions. By late October and early November, light snowfall is possible, creating a stunning mixed landscape of autumn colours dusted with snow.
Weather patterns can change rapidly in Lapland’s autumn, with sunshine quickly giving way to rain showers or even brief snow flurries. Wind can significantly increase the perceived cold, especially in open fell areas where our horse riding trails might take you. This variability means you should always be prepared with appropriate clothing and expect all weather conditions during your ride.
At Polar Lights Tours, we monitor weather conditions closely before our horse riding excursions and can advise you on specific conditions for your planned riding dates. We offer trips of various durations to suit your preferences: 1-hour introductory rides, 2-hour adventures, 5-hour wilderness experiences, and immersive 2-day and 3-day journeys. Our friendly Finnish horses are well-adapted to the cooler temperatures, but your comfort during the ride will greatly depend on proper weather-appropriate attire.
What are the essential clothing layers for horse riding in Lapland during autumn?
The key to comfortable horse riding in Lapland’s autumn lies in mastering the three-layer system that provides insulation, moisture management, and protection from the elements. This approach allows you to adjust your clothing based on changing weather conditions and activity levels during your ride.
For your base layer, choose thermal underwear made from merino wool or synthetic materials that wick moisture away from your skin. Avoid cotton as it retains moisture and can leave you feeling cold and uncomfortable. Long-sleeved thermal tops and full-length thermal leggings provide essential core warmth for autumn riding conditions.
The mid-layer should focus on insulation. A good quality fleece jacket or wool jumper traps warm air close to your body while still allowing moisture to escape. For horse riding in particularly cold autumn conditions, consider wearing a lightweight down or synthetic insulated gilet (vest) that keeps your core warm without restricting arm movement while handling the reins.
Your outer layer must be both waterproof and windproof while remaining breathable. A technical riding jacket designed for cooler weather offers the best combination of protection and functionality. For your lower body, weatherproof riding trousers or breeches paired with chaps provide protection from wind, rain, and brush contact during forest trails.
When selecting riding attire for Lapland’s autumn, prioritise flexibility and comfort. You’ll need sufficient range of motion for mounting and controlling your horse while maintaining thermal protection. This is especially important for our longer excursions (5-hour, 2-day, and 3-day trips) where comfort over extended periods is essential. Many of our guests find that specialised equestrian outerwear works well, but good quality hiking or outdoor gear can be suitable alternatives if it allows for comfortable riding.
How should I protect my extremities when horse riding in cooling Lapland weather?
Protecting your extremities is crucial when horse riding in Lapland’s autumn, as hands, feet, and head are particularly vulnerable to cold. Proper footwear is perhaps the most essential consideration – waterproof riding boots with a small heel (for safety in stirrups) and enough space for thermal socks are ideal for autumn trail riding.
For your hands, specialised riding gloves that combine warmth with the dexterity needed to handle reins are essential. In early autumn, lighter riding gloves may suffice, but as temperatures drop, consider thermal riding gloves or a two-glove system with thin liner gloves beneath waterproof outer gloves. Remember that cold hands can impair your ability to control your horse safely, so this is no place to compromise.
Head protection should include both a safety-approved riding helmet and additional warming layers. A thin beanie or helmet liner that fits comfortably under your riding helmet provides crucial warmth without compromising safety. For particularly cold days, consider a helmet cover that adds waterproofing and additional insulation.
Neck protection is often overlooked but extremely important in cooling weather. A neck gaiter or buff can prevent cold air from entering between your jacket and helmet, and can be pulled up to protect your face during colder periods or when encountering wind on more exposed trails. This versatile item can also be adjusted as your body temperature changes during the ride.
At our Polar Lights Tours horse riding excursions, we provide helmets for all participants, but recommend you bring your own thermal liners if you have them. For our 1-hour and 2-hour rides, basic protection is usually sufficient, while for 5-hour rides and multi-day trips (2-day and 3-day adventures), we strongly recommend bringing additional layers for extremity protection. We can offer guidance on appropriate extremity protection for the specific autumn conditions during your planned rides through Lapland’s beautiful wilderness.
What accommodation options complement horse riding experiences in autumn Lapland?
Polar Lights Tours offers three different accommodation options that perfectly complement your horse riding adventures in Lapland:
Aurora Wilderness Cabin
Our Aurora cabins, nestled in the serene wilderness of Levi, Finnish Lapland, offer a peaceful retreat. Our guide will escort you through the woods to ensure a comfortable arrival. From late May to late July, you can enjoy the Midnight Sun, while from late August to early April, you might witness a sky full of stars or the Northern Lights. The cabins feature large windows, including a roof window, for stunning views. Inside, you’ll find an eco-toilet for convenience. This overnight experience includes a light evening meal and breakfast featuring Finnish specialties.
Cozy Kammi Experience
Spend a night in our round and cozy kammi building, where you can experience the intimacy of the wilderness while sleeping warmly in sleeping bags. Located on our horse and husky farm, the kammi offers an opportunity to meet and learn about our animals in the evening. Enjoy a dinner made with Finnish ingredients inside the kammi, and then relax in a hammock outside, gazing at the night sky and possibly seeing stars or the Northern Lights. In the morning, wake up to find a breakfast basket waiting outside.
Wilderness Caravan Adventure
Stay in a motorhome, caravan, private tent, or hammock. Our farm is located along Muonio Road, about a 10-minute drive from Levi towards Muonio. Enjoy nature, take a dip in the river, or rent a barrel sauna. We have 5 electric caravan pitches, unlimited tent and hammock spots, and offer all necessary services: Kammi atmospheric cooking and an open fire in the chamber, toilets and indoor WC, water point, electrical outlets (5 pcs), and drainage of chemical toilets and grey water. Guided tours to get to know our horses and dogs are included in the price!
When can I see northern lights during autumn horse riding trips in Lapland?
The northern lights (aurora borealis) begin to make their appearance in Lapland from late August onwards, coinciding beautifully with the autumn horse riding season. The dark, clear nights of autumn create ideal conditions for aurora viewing, with September and October offering an excellent balance of moderate temperatures for riding and increasing opportunities to witness this natural light show.
At Polar Lights Tours, we’ve specially designed our evening horse riding adventures to maximize your chances of seeing the northern lights during autumn. Our “On the Paths of Northern Lights Riding Adventure” takes place in the evening hours when aurora activity is at its peak. During this relaxing 2-hour horseback ride, you’ll venture through the quiet forests while keeping watch on the night sky above.
The optimal viewing times for northern lights in autumn are typically between 9 PM and 1 AM, though displays can occur earlier or later. Our wilderness cabin accommodation, included in our 2-day and 3-day packages, with its large windows and skylights, allows you to continue your aurora watch even after your horse riding excursion has concluded – many guests report the magical experience of witnessing the lights dance above while lying comfortably in bed.
Weather conditions significantly impact aurora visibility, with clear skies being essential. Autumn in Lapland often features clearer nights than the deeper winter months, particularly in September and early October before heavy snowfall begins. Our guides monitor aurora forecasts and can advise you on the likelihood of displays during your stay.
For photographers hoping to capture both autumn colours and northern lights, our 5-hour and multi-day horse riding packages (2-day and 3-day options) provide ample opportunities. The combination of golden ruska foliage and the green, purple, and blue hues of the aurora creates truly spectacular photographic possibilities. Our guides can suggest optimal vantage points for both riding experiences and aurora photography.
What makes autumn northern lights viewing particularly special is the possibility of seeing the aurora reflection in Lapland’s lakes and rivers before they freeze – something our riding routes often pass by. This double display of lights creates a magical atmosphere that perfectly complements the rhythmic sound of hoofbeats and the fresh scent of autumn forests.
| Autumn Month | Temperature Range | Northern Lights Visibility | Recommended Clothing Focus | Ideal Riding Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Late August/Early September | +5°C to +15°C | Beginning to be visible on clear nights | Lighter layers, waterproof outer shell | 1h, 2h, 5h, 2-day trips |
| Mid-to-Late September | 0°C to +10°C | Good visibility with increasing darkness | Medium insulation, waterproof gear | 1h, 2h, 5h, 2-day, 3-day trips |
| October | -5°C to +5°C | Excellent with longer dark hours | Thermal layers, insulated riding gear | 1h, 2h, 5h, 2-day, 3-day trips |
| Early November | -10°C to 0°C | Excellent but increasing cloud cover possible | Full winter riding gear recommended | 1h, 2h rides (5h and multi-day upon weather conditions) |
Horse riding in Lapland’s autumn offers a unique opportunity to experience the region’s spectacular natural phenomena from the back of a gentle Finnish horse. From the vibrant ruska colours to the dancing northern lights, these experiences create lasting memories of Lapland’s most magical season. At Polar Lights Tours, we invite you to discover these special moments with our friendly horses as your companions through the wilderness. Whether you choose a brief 1-hour introduction, a 2-hour evening adventure, an immersive 5-hour day trip, or our comprehensive 2-day and 3-day packages, you’ll experience the authentic beauty of Lapland in autumn.
For horse riding in Lapland’s autumn weather, you should wear a versatile layering system that adapts to changing temperatures. Start with moisture-wicking thermal base layers, add insulating mid-layers like fleece or wool, and top with a waterproof, breathable jacket and trousers. Sturdy waterproof riding boots with heels, thermal riding gloves, and a warm hat that fits under your helmet are essential. Pack additional layers as autumn in Lapland can range from crisp sunny days (5-10°C) to near-freezing temperatures with occasional light snow by late season. Your clothing needs may vary depending on the duration of your chosen experience, with our 1-hour, 2-hour, 5-hour, 2-day, and 3-day options each requiring appropriate preparation.
