In the heart of Finnish winter, nature puts on one of its most breathtaking shows, crafting landscapes that seem almost otherworldly. As temperatures drop to a staggering -40 degrees Celsius, the untouched wilderness transforms in a way that redefines our understanding of natural beauty.
This remarkable event, known locally as “tykky,” happens when supercooled water droplets freeze instantly upon touching surfaces, especially trees. This process results in thick layers of snow and rime frost that envelop every branch, needle, and trunk in a sparkling white coat. The outcome is a forest filled with ghostly figures, their shapes molded by the wind and frost into forms that seem to defy their natural origins.
The sheer weight of the snow and ice can be immense, with individual trees supporting hundreds of kilograms of frozen water. Yet, Finland’s resilient northern species, particularly the robust pine and spruce, have adapted to thrive in these harsh conditions. Their flexible branches bend gracefully under the load, forming natural shelters that help retain warmth and protect the wildlife beneath.
In these extreme environments, the landscape becomes what many photographers and visitors refer to as an “alien snow globe.” The familiar green forest is completely hidden under a thick layer of white, creating a striking monochrome view that stretches endlessly. During the polar night, when the sun barely peeks above the horizon, these snow-covered woods take on an even more enchanting aura, especially illuminated by the mystical glow of the northern lights.
Local Finns have learned to thrive in these harsh conditions over generations, cultivating a profound appreciation for the beauty and tranquility of their winter scenery. Traditional pastimes such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing enable people to explore these enchanting forests, while contemporary winter safaris provide visitors with the opportunity to experience this remarkable environment via snowmobiles or dog sleds.
This phenomenon highlights nature’s artistic abilities and the remarkable resilience of both the landscapes and the communities that call them home. As climate change poses a threat to these winter patterns, these breathtaking displays of natural ice formations become even more valuable, standing as frozen tributes to the Arctic’s distinctive essence.
