Autumn Foliage, or so-called 'Ruska' in Finnish, is when leaves start turning into shades of yellow, orange, red, and brown to finally leave the tree and remind us about seizing the moment. Autumn foliage can be seen in Espoo typically from the third week of September and, depending on weather conditions (primarily the wind), may last from 10 days up to 3 weeks. By the end of October, the majority of colorful leaves can already be gone.
Follow Autumn Foliage in Finland Live
So where to head when the 'Ruska'/Autumn Foliage time is at its best?
Maahisenkierros viewpoint in Nuuksio National Park
A lovely 2km long trail that takes you over the perfect viewpoint overlooking the National Park and Lake Pitkäjärvi – a long, slim lake right by the Finnish Nature Centre Haltia.
Note: This trail is accessible for wheelchair visitors or families with prams.
Photo: Natura Viva
Vääräjärvi lake and viewpoints in Nuuksio National Park
The second spot worth visiting to admire autumn foliage is Lake Vääräjärvi, located in the Kattila Recreational Area. Here, you get a sense of what the saying ‘Land of thousands of lakes' really means while walking some of the trails by the lake or even taking a rowing boat to admire the Finnish nature beauty from the lake itself.
Mössenkärr pond and viewpoint in Espoo Central Park
It may come as a surprise, but did you know that you can find a huge Central Park in Espoo? This 880-hectare huge park in the middle of the city is a favorite destination among locals – even more during wonderful autumn days! One of the spots we would recommend for a perfect autumn foliage photo is Mössekärrin levähdyspaikka viewpoint by the small pond called Mössenkärr.
Photo: Riikka Laatikainen
Soukan Kasavuori viewpoint by the Baltic Sea coast
It is a hidden gem viewpoint that will present you with the beauty of the Finnish archipelago and the autumn magic. The viewpoint is not always the easiest to find, but it shouldn’t discourage you from chasing it! You can reach the Soukka area well by taking a metro ride to Soukka station, and from there, follow the location instructions to the Soukan Kasavuori viewpoint.
Note: Some fitness skills may be required for the hike towards the Soukan Kasavuori viewpoint – which will be rewarded by a magical seaside view!
Photo; Marjaana Tasala
Glims River and Espoo Cathedral in Espoo Center
In Espoo, you can find nature behind each corner. Even in the Espoo Center, you will find several nature spots that should have a place on your Autumn Foliage chasing list. In this area, we recommend you stop by the beautiful Espoo Cathedral, Farmstead Museum Glims, or follow one of the nature trails along the Glims River.
Click for the Espoo Cathedral location
Photo: Mika Viitanen
Hero Image: Marjaana Tasala