Under a Green Sky: Chasing the Northern Lights on a Snowmobile in Levi
Ride the Arctic night to a front-row seat for the aurora, then warm up with a wood-smoked barbecue under the stars.
The exhaust from the snowmobile fogs in front of your visor and the spruce-bent trail narrows to a ribbon of silver under a sky that refuses to sit still. For three hours you ride and stop, binoculars and camera at the ready, following a local guide who reads cloud breaks and wind-lines the way a sailor reads the sea. The goal isn't speed; it's presence—the patient pursuit of an aurora that sometimes unfurls like silk, sometimes snaps into spangled curtains. Out here in Levi, the Arctic feels like it's watching you back.
Trail Wisdom
Dress in sealed layers
Wear moisture-wicking base layers, insulated mid-layers, and a windproof outer shell; a helmet liner and thermal socks keep extremities warm.
Keep batteries warm
Store spare camera and phone batteries inside an inner pocket near your body to prevent them from losing charge in the cold.
Practice sled basics
If you’ll drive, arrive early for a brief warm-up to get comfortable with throttle and braking on snow.
Respect the sky
Avoid bright lights and loud noise during aurora stops to improve everyone’s viewing and photos.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Frozen river overlooks near Levi’s eastern fells — quiet and excellent for aurora reflections
- •Small Sámi handicraft outlets in Levi village selling handmade wool and reindeer leather items
Wildlife
Reindeer, Hares
Conservation Note
Operators follow marked routes to minimize impact, and visitors are asked to avoid disturbing reindeer herding areas and to pack out all trash.
Levi has long been a seasonal gathering place in Lapland, and modern tourism grew after downhill skiing infrastructure arrived in the 1980s.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Longer daylight drives, Late-season aurora viewing
Challenges: Unstable snowpacks, Variable temperatures
Early spring (March–April) brings longer days but good aurora chances on clear nights; expect thawing conditions late in the season.
summer
Best for: Not applicable for aurora tours, Daytime wilderness activities
Challenges: Midnight sun eliminates aurora visibility, Snowmobiling not available
Summer in Levi is great for hiking and mountain biking, but the midnight sun makes aurora-focused snowmobile tours unavailable.
fall
Best for: Off-season solitude, Early-season aurora shows
Challenges: Unpredictable snow cover, Shorter service season for operators
Late autumn can produce good aurora displays, though early snowfall and limited tour availability make bookings less predictable.
winter
Best for: Prime aurora viewing, Reliable snowmobile access
Challenges: Extreme cold, Short daylight hours
Mid-winter (December–March) is the optimal window for clear, dark skies and dependable snowmobile conditions—just bundle up.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Warm insulated jacketEssential
A windproof, insulated jacket keeps core temperature stable while riding and during stationary aurora watches.
Thermal glove liners and waterproof mittensEssential
Hands cool fast—liners plus waterproof mittens allow fine control while protecting from wind chill.
Tripod and wide-angle lens
A sturdy tripod and a fast wide-angle lens are essential for sharp aurora photographs on long exposures.
Spare camera/phone batteriesEssential
Cold drains batteries quickly—keep spares in a warm inner pocket to maintain charge.
Common Questions
How long is the snowmobile tour?
The experience runs approximately 3 hours (180 minutes), including briefing, transit, aurora stops, and a barbecue break.
Do I need previous snowmobile experience?
No—guides provide a safety briefing and basic instruction; you can ride as a passenger or drive after a short practice session.
What should I wear?
Dress in moisture-wicking base layers, warm mid-layers, and a windproof outer shell; bring thermal socks, a helmet liner, and warm gloves.
How likely am I to see the Northern Lights?
Visibility depends on solar activity and cloud cover; operators optimize routes for clear skies but cannot guarantee sightings.
Is there an age limit for passengers?
Age restrictions vary by operator—check the specific policy when booking; children may be allowed as passengers with adult supervision.
Are meals included?
Most tours include a hot drink and a barbecue or snack stop; confirm details when you book to know what’s provided.
What to Pack
Insulated layers, spare batteries, tripod, waterproof boots — for warmth, camera life, stable shots, and dry feet.
Did You Know
Levi lies just above the Arctic Circle and is one of Finland’s most accessible places to combine snowmobiling with aurora viewing—Kittilä Airport serves the region year-round.
Quick Travel Tips
Book evening tours in advance; use Kittilä Airport (KTT) for nearest flights; carry local currency for small purchases; let your phone heal between cold exposures to preserve battery life.
Local Flavor
After the tour, warm up with traditional Lappish porcini soup or poronkäristys (sautéed reindeer) at a local Levi restaurant, then sample craft beers at a cozy village bar; many lodges also offer a post-activity sauna to thaw out.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Kittilä Airport (KTT) ~15 km; Meeting point: Levi village center; Driving distance: 15–30 minutes from Kittilä; Cell service: Good near village, patchy on remote fells; Permits: None typically required for guided tours.
Sustainability Note
Tours keep to marked routes to protect tundra vegetation and reindeer grazing land—avoid off-track riding and pack out all waste.