Helvetinjärvi National Park
Remote national park with stunning lakes, canyons, and gorges, perfect for campers and hikers seeking tranquility and adventure.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best trail conditions
Helvetinjärvi National Park
Best Time
Best trail conditions

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Remote national park with stunning lakes, canyons, and gorges, perfect for campers and hikers seeking tranquility and adventure.
"Such beautiful nature! Very calm area with not many visitors, very peaceful, it will return your energy."
🗺️ Carry a Map
Only thematic trails are well-marked; bring a map for other areas to avoid getting lost.
🥾 Trail Difficulty
Some trails are challenging, with optional rock-climbing sections for the adventurous.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Helvetinkolu Gorge
Central part of the park
A dramatic, narrow gorge offering a challenging and rewarding hiking experience, with optional rock-climbing.

Haukkajärvi Campground
Near the parking area
A well-situated campsite offering easy access to a scenic 5.5km hiking trail leading to the 'hax' rocks.

Lake Shores
Various lakes within the park
Relax by the tranquil shores of the park's lakes, perfect for unwinding and enjoying the peaceful natural surroundings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Helvetinjärvi's Trails
Embrace the Wilderness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗺️ Carry a Map
Only thematic trails are well-marked; bring a map for other areas to avoid getting lost.
🥾 Trail Difficulty
Some trails are challenging, with optional rock-climbing sections for the adventurous.
🏕️ Camping Options
The Haukkajärvi campground is convenient and close to a popular hiking trail.
☀️ Best Season
Summer offers ideal hiking conditions, while spring can be challenging with lingering snow and ice.
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Carry a Map
Only thematic trails are well-marked; bring a map for other areas to avoid getting lost.
🥾 Trail Difficulty
Some trails are challenging, with optional rock-climbing sections for the adventurous.
🏕️ Camping Options
The Haukkajärvi campground is convenient and close to a popular hiking trail.
☀️ Best Season
Summer offers ideal hiking conditions, while spring can be challenging with lingering snow and ice.
👨👩👧👦 Family Friendly
Easy hiking tracks and swimming opportunities make it great for all ages.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Helvetinjärvi National Park for its stunning natural beauty, offering a peaceful escape with opportunities for both easy walks and challenging hikes. The park's serene lakeshores and dramatic gorges are highlights, making it a great spot for families and campers. Some trails require careful navigation, and visiting in spring can present icy conditions.
"A great walking pathway through the forest. It is also an easy hiking track as part of national park that suits for all ages. You can swim here in the big lake and have a camping overnight in the National Park area. It is a great place to visit, especially with your family and friends."
Naritchaya Potes
"Such beautiful nature! Very calm area with not many visitors, very peaceful, it will return your energy. I just like the relax on the shore of the lakes.
Unfortunately only around thematic trail are paths well marked, rest of the park should be a bit problematic (you need definitely the map)."
Petra Vřesová
"We visited on the 31st of March. It took us less around 1h30 to do the whole round, it was really easy. We really enjoyed it !"
Laurane
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
While direct public transport to the park entrance can be limited, some Reddit users mention exploring areas accessible by bus from Tampere. It's advisable to check current bus schedules for routes serving the Tammela area or nearby towns, and then potentially arrange a taxi or a longer walk to the park.
Yes, the park is accessible by car, with parking areas available near trailheads and campgrounds like Haukkajärvi. Driving is often the most convenient way to reach the park, especially if you're coming from further afield than Tampere.
The primary access points are typically via parking areas that lead to trailheads. The Haukkajärvi campground area is a common starting point for many visitors.
Currently, there are no widely advertised shuttle services directly to Helvetinjärvi National Park. Visitors usually rely on private vehicles or a combination of public transport and walking.
The driving distance from Helsinki to Helvetinjärvi National Park is approximately 250-300 kilometers, taking around 3 to 4 hours depending on the route and traffic conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Helvetinjärvi National Park is generally free. However, there might be fees associated with specific services like camping or guided tours if offered.
National parks in Finland are typically open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, visitor centers or specific facilities within the park may have limited operating hours.
No, there is no entrance fee for day visitors to Helvetinjärvi National Park. You can explore the trails and natural beauty without charge.
For designated camping areas like Haukkajärvi, it's often a first-come, first-served basis. It's recommended to check with Metsähallitus (the Finnish Forest Service) for any specific booking procedures or recommendations, especially during peak season.
While the park itself is open 24/7, it's best to plan your visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment, especially if you're hiking. Some facilities might have specific hours.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Helvetinkolu gorge trail is a highlight, offering a challenging experience with optional rock-climbing. The 5.5km trail from Haukkajärvi campground to the 'hax' rocks is also popular and scenic.
Yes, the park offers easy hiking tracks suitable for all ages, and opportunities for swimming in the lake make it a great family destination.
Yes, swimming is permitted in the lakes, and there are sandy beaches that are perfect for relaxing by the water.
Yes, there are camping areas, such as the Haukkajärvi telttailualue, which is well-located near a parking area and hiking trails.
While thematic trails are generally well-marked, other parts of the park may be less so. It's highly recommended to carry a map for navigation, especially if you plan to explore beyond the main routes.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic Helvetinkolu gorge, the serene lake shores, and the rugged natural landscapes offer stunning photographic opportunities. The 'hax' rocks are also a unique subject.
Early morning and late afternoon light often provide the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for landscape photography, especially around the lakes and gorges.
Drone usage in Finnish national parks is subject to regulations. It's essential to check the latest rules from Metsähallitus regarding drone operation to ensure compliance.
A versatile lens (e.g., wide-angle for landscapes, telephoto for wildlife) and a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures would be beneficial.
While not guaranteed, Helvetinjärvi's natural environment may offer opportunities to photograph local wildlife. Patience and a telephoto lens can be helpful.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Solo Travelers & Hikers
🏕️ Campers & Nature Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking Trails and Difficulty
When planning your hike, it's crucial to be aware of trail marking. While the main thematic trails are generally well-maintained and clearly signposted, venturing into less-trodden areas means you'll definitely need a map. Visitors have noted that beyond the marked paths, navigation can become problematic. The best time to tackle these trails is during the summer months when conditions are optimal. Visiting in spring can be a mixed bag; while refreshing, lingering snow and ice can make some sections significantly more challenging than usual.
Camping and Overnight Stays
A 5.5km hiking trail conveniently starts from the Haukkajärvi area, leading to the striking 'hax' rocks, a scenic destination that's perfect for a day trip from your campsite or as a goal for an overnight stay. Camping allows you to experience the park's tranquility after the day-trippers have departed, offering a more profound connection with nature. Remember to check the latest regulations and any potential booking requirements with Metsähallitus, the Finnish Forest Service, especially if you plan to visit during peak season.
The Serenity of Helvetinjärvi
This peaceful atmosphere makes Helvetinjärvi an excellent destination for families and friends seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The combination of accessible walking paths, opportunities for swimming, and the sheer beauty of the landscape creates a holistic experience. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect and let the natural surroundings work their magic.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit