The Mystery of The Ghost Trees in Lapland

Introduction

The Arctic is a land of dreamlike landscapes, where snow and ice transform the environment into a surreal scene. One of the most astonishing natural spectacles is the so-called “ghost trees” in Lapland, tree formations covered in thick layers of snow and frost that resemble ghostly figures emerging from the white ground. But what causes them? Where can you see these surreal-looking trees? Join me as we uncover the mystery behind this phenomenon.

What Are Ghost Trees?

Ghost trees are pine and spruce trees that, due to the extreme winter conditions in Lapland, become entirely covered in snow and ice, taking on strange, sculptural shapes. This phenomenon occurs when:

• Wet snow and freezing winds cause snowflakes to stick firmly to the branches.
• Frost and condensation from cold air add additional layers of ice.
• Snowstorms continuously reshape the trees, giving them twisted, sometimes humanoid forms.

How Do Ghost Trees Form?

The formation of these trees is a fascinating natural process involving extreme atmospheric conditions. During the coldest months, the combination of subzero temperatures, high humidity, and constant winds causes snow and ice to gradually accumulate on the trees. This process can last for weeks or even months, depending on the severity of the winter.

As snow builds up on the branches, the additional weight forces the trees to bend and twist, giving them an even more dramatic appearance. Furthermore, temperature variations can cause the ice to partially melt during the day and refreeze at night, creating thick layers of translucent ice. This repetitive cycle is responsible for the sculptural appearance of these trees.

1. Riisitunturi National Park (Finland)

This park is one of the most famous for its “puukkelot” (as the Finns call these snow-covered trees). Its hills offer panoramic views where the trees resemble a gallery of natural sculptures.

2. Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park (Finland)

Lesser-known but equally spectacular, this park offers winter hiking trails through these trees, ideal for those seeking a more immersive nature experience.

3. Saariselkä Region (Finland)

Located near the Arctic Circle, this area features boreal forests where snow-covered trees create a fairytale-like atmosphere. It is also an excellent location for viewing the northern lights.

4. Abisko Region (Sweden)

Abisko is famous for its clear skies, perfect for northern lights viewing, but it also boasts ghost trees, especially in Abisko National Park.

Final Reflection

The ghost trees of Lapland are a testament to the majesty of the Arctic winter. Observing them feels like stepping into a dream world, where nature plays with snow and ice to create ephemeral sculptures. The first time I saw them, I couldn’t stop wondering what they were and how they had formed.

During the darkness of the polar night, these white trees stand like guardians of Lapland’s eternal forests. Especially last season, when temperatures dropped to nearly -50°C, these giants accompanied us throughout most of the winter. This year, with much milder temperatures barely reaching -20°C, many people have not had the chance to see them.

For me, nighttime walks in search of the northern lights were made even more beautiful by the silhouettes of these trees. In the vast frozen expanse of Lapland, one is faced with absolute silence, an endless white landscape that invites deep introspection. Gazing at these trees is a reminder that even in the most extreme conditions, nature always finds a way to create beauty.

If you enjoyed this article and want to discover more Arctic secrets, check out my posts on the Polar Night and Stratospheric Clouds!

And if you’ve ever walked among these ghostly trees, let me know in the comments!