National parks
Northernmost Lapland is a popular outdoor destination as it is the home to Finland’s two largest national parks – The Lemmenjoki National Park and Urho Kekkonen National Park. Well-marked trails and Finland’s densest network of wilderness cabins create a unique setting for hikers. The possibilities are endless and suit everyone. You can go for a multiday trekking adventure, or on a short day trip with the whole family.
Urho Kekkonen National Park
Urho Kekkonen National Park is among Finland’s most popular outdoor destinations. The northern part consists of highland fells and wilderness, with several fells exceeding 500 metres in height. The National Park is easy to access from Saariselkä. Here you can trek on foot or skis through magnificent arctic landscapes. Enjoy the Northern Lights in the winter and autumn and midnight sun in the summertime. The park area boasts Finland’s densest network of day cabins and wilderness huts
Lemmenjoki National Park
Lemmenjoki is the largest national park in Finland. It is also one of the biggest roadless wilderness in Europe. Stretching over 70 kilometres, the River Lemmenjoki flows through the national park. River Lemmenjoki is known for its gold panning history. Gold is still actively panned for today and travellers can try gold panning on a guided tour.Lemmenjoki is best experienced on a riverboat cruise that takes you to the Lemmenjoki National Park and the beautiful scenery of the goldfields
Kevo Strict Nature Reserve
The Kevo Nature Reserve is among the most rugged hiking attractions in Finland. There are two marked, rather demanding hiking trails (63km and 86km). At Sulaoja, between villages Karigasniemi and Kaamanen, there is a two-kilometre long nature trail.This unique area is a prime habitat for rare birds. Access is restricted to signposted trails. The heart of the nature reserve consists of a canyon spanning 40km in length and at some places 80 metres in depth
Wilderness Areas
The six wilderness areas of Lapland North are vast, near-natural regions where silence and solitude still reign. Only traditional livelihoods such as reindeer herding, hunting, and fishing are allowed. Their purpose is to protect wild nature and Sámi culture. Hiking and skiing are permitted, but terrain suits only experienced trekkers. Areas include Hammastunturi, Kaldoaivi, Paistunturi, Muotkatunturi, Tsarmitunturi, and Vätsäri.
Inari Hiking Area
Inari Hiking Area is located around the village of Inari. It starts at Lake Myössäjärvi, along Inari – Ivalo road, and continues to the northern side of Juutuanjoki River. From there it covers the area to the south until Lake Solojärvi along Inari – Kittilä road. Towards the East, the hiking area includes half of Lake Inarijärvi.
The hiking area has numerous marked trails and interesting sights. Jäniskoski rapids, Otsamo fell and Pielpajärvi Wilderness Church are just a few to mention
Guidelines & Everyone’s Rights
Before heading out to the wild, get familiar with the principals of hiking and outdoor life in Finland. Here you will find practical information on how to enjoy the great outdoors of Finland and regulations to follow.