Sliding snowshoeing
Gliding Snowshoeing in Oulu, Glide Across the Frozen Sea at Nallikari
Gliding snowshoeing is one of the most fun and surprising ways to enjoy winter in Oulu, and it makes a great addition to the best things to do here in the cold season. It combines the ease of snowshoeing with the smooth glide of cross-country skiing, so you move faster and further across the snow than on traditional snowshoes. The real magic comes when the ice is safe and you glide straight out onto the frozen sea, across the ice of the Gulf of Bothnia in wide open Arctic scenery. It is easy to start with no previous experience, so you simply strap in and go.
Where is Nallikari, Oulu?
Oulu is a coastal city in Northern Finland, sitting right on the Gulf of Bothnia just south of the Arctic Circle, and Nallikari is its seaside beach area only about 15 minutes from the city centre. Oulu was named one of National Geographic’s Best of the World 2026 destinations and is a European Capital of Culture in 2026. Because the sea here truly freezes over each winter, Oulu offers something rare, the chance to move across a frozen sea rather than only forest trails, and all without a long journey into the wilderness. It is easy to reach, with an airport about 15 km away and a direct train from Helsinki in around five and a half hours.
Good to know
- Rental and departures: Nallikari Safaris, Nallikarinranta 10, Oulu
- Rental open: Tue–Sat 11:00–16:00
- Season: typically late December to March, depending on snow conditions
- Rental periods: from one day up to six days
What is gliding snowshoeing?
Gliding snowshoes, sometimes called snowshoe skis, are light and stable, with sliding bases that let you glide as well as walk. That means you cover ground more smoothly and quickly than on ordinary snowshoes, on flat trails and gentle slopes alike. It is a low threshold activity that needs no previous skiing or snowshoeing experience, so the technique is quick to learn and beginners can join straight away, while more active visitors get extra speed and a bit of adventure.
Out onto the frozen sea
Nallikari’s speciality is the frozen sea, and when the ice is safe this is where gliding snowshoeing becomes truly special. You glide out onto the sea ice, where the winter landscape opens up around you with plenty of room to move, and from Nallikari you can also reach nearby spots such as Hietasaari and Pikisaari. Safety always comes first, so any route onto the ice depends on the conditions, and the staff and guides judge the weather and ice before heading out.
Rent gliding snowshoes or join a guided tour
Rent gliding snowshoes or join a guided tour
All the gear and guided tours are available from Nallikari Safaris at our base in Nallikari Aalto, at Nallikarinranta 10 in Oulu, and the rental point is open year round Tuesday to Saturday from 11:00 to 16:00. Rental periods run from one day up to several days, so you can fit the gear to your plans.
Guided tours are booked for a set time, and you can get a warm thermal overall to keep you comfortable while you are out.
Rent sliding snowshoes from Nallikari in Oulu.
Join a guided sliding snowshoe tour
Experience winter in a new way on a guided sliding snowshoe tour. Expert guides will take you through beautiful snowy landscapes, combining nature, exercise, and fun. The tour is suitable for all skill levels and includes all necessary equipment and instructions.
Frequently asked questions
Is gliding snowshoeing one of the best things to do in Oulu in winter?
For many visitors, yes. It is easy, it needs no experience, and when the ice allows you can glide across a frozen sea right beside the city, which is a rare experience. It is also simple to combine with other winter activities in the Nallikari area.
Do I need previous experience?
No. It is a low threshold activity that needs no earlier skiing or snowshoeing experience, and the technique takes only minutes to learn.
Can I go out on the sea ice?
Yes, when the ice is safe. Routes onto the frozen sea depend on the ice and weather, and our guides always check the conditions first.
What should I wear?
Warm layers, waterproof footwear, a hat and gloves. On guided tours you can get a thermal overall from Nallikari Safaris if you need one.
How long can I rent the gear for?
From one day up to several days. Guided tours are booked for their own set time.
When can I go gliding snowshoeing?
The season depends on the snow but typically runs from late December to March, and tours are arranged subject to the weather.
One area, everything close by
At Nallikari your day does not have to end when you step off the ice, because everything else you need sits along the same seaside area. You can warm up over lunch or coffee at Ravintola Nallikari or Bistoria Patio, ease your muscles with a massage at Osfysio, and stay the night by the sea at Nallikari Aalto, the Poiju villas, the holiday cottages or the camping area. More things to do all year round are waiting with the guided tours and equipment rental of Nallikari Safaris. Out on the ice by day and relaxing by the sea in the evening, you will find everything in one seaside area in Oulu.
