Helvetinjärvi National Park - Calm lake with a dense forest and house.
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Helvetinjärvi National Park

4.5
·1k reviews·Ruovesi, Finland

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best trail conditions

CrowdLow
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Helvetinjärvi National Park - Calm lake with a dense forest and house.

Helvetinjärvi National Park

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best trail conditions

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.5
(1k reviews)

"Such beautiful nature! Very calm area with not many visitors, very peaceful, it will return your energy."

Vertical photo
TIP

🗺️ 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Helvetinkolu Gorge

Helvetinkolu Gorge

Central part of the park

A dramatic, narrow gorge offering a challenging and rewarding hiking experience, with optional rock-climbing.

Haukkajärvi Campground

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

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.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Helvetinjärvi's Trails

While some paths are well-marked, venturing off the main routes in Helvetinjärvi National Park requires a map. Consider visiting during summer for the best trail conditions, as spring can bring snow and ice, making some sections challenging but refreshing.

Embrace the Wilderness

Helvetinjärvi offers a serene escape with lakes, canyons, and sandy beaches. It's ideal for camping and hiking, providing a peaceful environment to recharge. Families and friends will find it a great place to connect with nature.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Best trail conditions
Crowd
Low
When
Spring (late)
Why
Refreshing, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer visitors
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Tänne kannatti ajaa Tampereelta mut kannattaa kauempaakin! Päivä Helvetinjärven Kansallispuistossa ja sit safkaamaan. Kiva löytää uusia hyviä piilottettuja helmiä pikkupitäjistä. 🥰 Näitä ei oo koskaan liikaa! #ruovesi #tampere #helsinki #ruokatok #burgertok #hamburger #ruoka #suomitt #fyp #sinulle #suomitiktokkaajat #ruokatiktok #hampurilainen #burgeri #loadedfries #smashburger
@karukeittio
6.7K likes • 180.5K views

🗺️ Carry a Map

Only thematic trails are well-marked; bring a map for other areas to avoid getting lost. Reddit

🥾 Trail Difficulty

Some trails are challenging, with optional rock-climbing sections for the adventurous. Reddit

Osa 15 | Helvetinjärven kansallispuisto 📍Rengasreitti Helvetistä itään lähtee Kankimäen parkkipaikalta osoitteesta: Helvetinkoluntie 775, 34600 Ruovesi 💡Kansallispuistosta löytyy myös vaativa esteetön reitti: Haukihieta, 1,1 km ⛺️Telttaillu on sallittu erikseen merkityillä telttailualueilla Iso Helvetinjärven rotkolaakso ja Helvetinkolu ovat inspiroineeet säveltäjiä, kirjailijoita ja t...
@retkironski
5.8K likes • 162.2K views
Come with us for a hike at Helvetinjärvi National Park 🏞️! The views are just stunning, aren’t they✨? #visittampere #tampere #finland #outdoorexpress #thisisfinland #visitfinland #discoverfinland #ourfinland
visittampereofficial
752 likes • 27.5K views

🏕️ Camping Options

The Haukkajärvi campground is convenient and close to a popular hiking trail. Reddit

☀️ Best Season

Summer offers ideal hiking conditions, while spring can be challenging with lingering snow and ice. Reddit

Golden evening and golden retriever🧡 #tentsile @tentsile #treetent ##tentsile24 #sunset #finland #helvetinjärvenkansallispuisto #helvetinjärvinationalpark #campingwithdog #kultainennoutaja #retki#goldenretriever#adventure #hikingdogsofinstagram #visitfinland #hikingpaws #outdoorfinland #adventuredog#hikingwithdogs #hikingadventures #retkipäivä#suomi #outdoor #ourcamplife#elämääulkona #retkellä #...
retkitassut
209 likes • 3K views

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. Reddit

🥾 Trail Difficulty

Some trails are challenging, with optional rock-climbing sections for the adventurous. Reddit

🏕️ Camping Options

The Haukkajärvi campground is convenient and close to a popular hiking trail. Reddit

☀️ Best Season

Summer offers ideal hiking conditions, while spring can be challenging with lingering snow and ice. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Friendly

Easy hiking tracks and swimming opportunities make it great for all ages. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(1k reviews)

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

Beautiful nature
Peaceful and calm
Great for camping

What People Dislike

Unmarked trails
Spring ice

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

No, there is no entrance fee for day visitors to Helvetinjärvi National Park. You can explore the trails and natural beauty without charge. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🥾 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. Reddit

Yes, the park offers easy hiking tracks suitable for all ages, and opportunities for swimming in the lake make it a great family destination. Reddit

Yes, swimming is permitted in the lakes, and there are sandy beaches that are perfect for relaxing by the water. Reddit

Yes, there are camping areas, such as the Haukkajärvi telttailualue, which is well-located near a parking area and hiking trails. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Reddit

Early morning and late afternoon light often provide the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for landscape photography, especially around the lakes and gorges. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

While not guaranteed, Helvetinjärvi's natural environment may offer opportunities to photograph local wildlife. Patience and a telephoto lens can be helpful. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Helvetinjärvi National Park is a fantastic destination for families. The park features easy hiking tracks that are suitable for all ages, ensuring that even the youngest members of the family can enjoy exploring the beautiful nature. Reddit Beyond walking, the opportunity to swim in the big lake and relax on the sandy beaches provides fun and refreshing activities for children. The Haukkajärvi camping area is also conveniently located, making it easier for families to set up a base for their adventures. Reddit

🚶 Solo Travelers & Hikers

For solo travelers and avid hikers, Helvetinjärvi offers a chance to connect with nature on a deeper level. The park's remote feel and the challenging hiking trails, including the option for rock-climbing, provide a rewarding experience for those seeking adventure. Reddit While some trails are well-marked, carrying a map is essential for exploring beyond the main routes, offering a sense of self-reliance and discovery. The peaceful atmosphere and opportunities for overnight camping allow for a truly immersive and rejuvenating solo journey. Reddit

🏕️ Campers & Nature Enthusiasts

Campers will find Helvetinjärvi a welcoming retreat. The Haukkajärvi campground is noted for its excellent location, providing easy access to trails and amenities. Reddit Spending a night or two allows you to fully appreciate the park's tranquil environment, from the serene lake shores to the dramatic gorges. It's an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts who want to disconnect from urban life and enjoy the quiet beauty of the Finnish wilderness. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Hiking Trails and Difficulty

Helvetinjärvi National Park is a hiker's paradise, offering a range of trails from easy strolls to challenging treks. The park is known for its dramatic geological features, which translate into some of the more demanding routes. The Helvetinkolu gorge is a prime example, presenting a narrow, deep fissure in the rock that requires careful navigation. For the truly adventurous, there's an option for voluntary rock-climbing on one of the trails, adding an adrenaline rush to the experience. Reddit

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. Reddit 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. Reddit

Camping and Overnight Stays

For those looking to immerse themselves fully in the wilderness, Helvetinjärvi National Park offers camping opportunities. The Haukkajärvi telttailualue (Haukkajärvi camping area) is a popular choice, noted for its convenience and proximity to the parking area. This makes it an ideal base for setting up camp before embarking on a hike. Reddit

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. Reddit

The Serenity of Helvetinjärvi

Beyond the adventurous hikes and camping, Helvetinjärvi National Park is celebrated for its profound sense of peace and natural beauty. Visitors often describe the area as very calm, with a low number of visitors, which contributes to its restorative energy. The shores of the lakes are particularly highlighted as places to relax and recharge, offering a tranquil environment to simply be present in nature. Reddit

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. Reddit

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