Urho Kekkonen National Park
Vast Arctic wilderness in Finnish Lapland, famed for its fells, hiking trails, Northern Lights, and the legacy of President Urho Kekkonen.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Perfect for skiing & aurora
Urho Kekkonen National Park
Best Time
Perfect for skiing & aurora
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vast Arctic wilderness in Finnish Lapland, famed for its fells, hiking trails, Northern Lights, and the legacy of President Urho Kekkonen.
"The scenery kept changing throughout our 7 day trip and that was the highlight for me."
🎒 Pack for All Weather
Lapland weather changes fast! Layers are key. Bring waterproofs, warm gear, and sturdy boots.
💧 Drinkable Spring Water
Many trails have safe spring water, but always check. Carry a filter or purification tablets just in case.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vast Wilderness Trails
Throughout the park
Explore diverse landscapes from river valleys to fells. Discover new sights on every trail.
Northern Lights Viewing
Open areas, away from light pollution
Witness the magical aurora borealis dance across the Arctic sky. A truly unforgettable spectacle.
Luirojärvi Lake
Central park area
The heart of the park for many wanderers, offering serene beauty and a sense of accomplishment.
Sokosti Fell
Near Luirojärvi
A popular peak for hikers, offering panoramic views on clear days. Worth the climb!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wilderness: Prepare for Remote Adventures
Best Time for Your Arctic Escape
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎒 Pack for All Weather
Lapland weather changes fast! Layers are key. Bring waterproofs, warm gear, and sturdy boots.
💧 Drinkable Spring Water
Many trails have safe spring water, but always check. Carry a filter or purification tablets just in case.
🏠 Wilderness Hut Etiquette
Huts are well-equipped but basic. Hang food to protect from mice and keep the space tidy for the next traveler.
🚶♀️ Discover Hidden Gems
Don't just follow the map! Let the changing scenery surprise you. Every trail offers something new.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 Pack for All Weather
Lapland weather changes fast! Layers are key. Bring waterproofs, warm gear, and sturdy boots.
💧 Drinkable Spring Water
Many trails have safe spring water, but always check. Carry a filter or purification tablets just in case.
🏠 Wilderness Hut Etiquette
Huts are well-equipped but basic. Hang food to protect from mice and keep the space tidy for the next traveler.
🚶♀️ Discover Hidden Gems
Don't just follow the map! Let the changing scenery surprise you. Every trail offers something new.
💰 Ski Gear Rental
No gear? No problem! Rent a full cross-country ski set for around 15€ at the entrance.
🦌 Reindeer Sightings
Keep an eye out for reindeer herds, especially in the more remote areas. A truly Lapland experience!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the park's stunning, ever-changing scenery and the profound sense of peace and quiet. The well-equipped wilderness huts and opportunities for activities like skiing and berry picking are highly praised. Some note that trail maintenance can vary due to the park's immense size.
"Park with some great trails and views. Many trails are well-maintained, some less so, but that's absolutely understandable due to the size of the park. Was a nice feeling to also drink spring water up in the fells. Just make sure it's safe to drink before doing so! 😊 All trails don't have spring water / water spots"
Jonathan Back
"You can hike down in river valleys or high on mountains and everything between !!!"
Johan Green (JussiG)
"Greatest leader to walk this earth and i got to visit the park in honor of him. I loved it"
Peppe
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The closest airport is Ivalo (IVL). From Ivalo, you can take a bus or taxi to Saariselkä, a popular base for exploring the park. Public transport options are limited within the park itself, so consider guided tours or renting a car if you plan to explore widely.
Yes, it's possible to visit using public transport to Saariselkä and then utilizing local buses or organized tours for specific trailheads. However, a car offers more flexibility for exploring the vastness of the park.
Saariselkä is a primary gateway, offering access to numerous hiking and skiing trails. Other access points include Tankavaara and Kiilopää, each providing different routes and experiences.
Rovaniemi is about a 3-hour drive north to Saariselkä, the main hub for Urho Kekkonen National Park. You can drive or take a bus from Rovaniemi.
You can fly into Ivalo Airport (IVL), which is the closest airport to Urho Kekkonen National Park. From there, you'll need to arrange ground transportation to reach the park's entry points.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Urho Kekkonen National Park is free. You can explore the trails and wilderness areas without purchasing admission tickets.
Urho Kekkonen National Park is open 24/7 year-round. However, visitor centers and services may have specific operating hours, especially during the off-season.
Most wilderness huts within the park are free to use on a first-come, first-served basis. Some may have a small fee or require booking in advance, especially during peak season.
While there are no hotels inside the park, you can find various wilderness huts and open campfire sites for overnight stays. Saariselkä and Kiilopää offer more traditional accommodation options nearby.
The park itself is free to enter. However, if you rent equipment for activities like cross-country skiing, there will be rental fees, typically around 15€ for a full set.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Trails vary from easy day hikes to multi-day expeditions. Popular choices include routes to Luirojärvi Lake and Sokosti Fell. The scenery constantly changes, offering new discoveries.
Generally, spring water in the fells is safe to drink, but it's always best to confirm or use a water filter/purification tablets to be absolutely sure. Not all water sources are reliable.
You might spot reindeer, arctic foxes, and various bird species. Keep a respectful distance and avoid feeding any wildlife.
Yes, many local operators in Saariselkä and surrounding areas offer guided tours for hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, and Northern Lights excursions.
Winter is perfect for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, fat biking, and husky sledding. The park also offers incredible opportunities for Northern Lights viewing. 
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants within the national park itself. You'll need to bring your own food for hikes or dine in Saariselkä or other nearby villages before or after your visit.
Yes, many designated campfire sites are available throughout the park where you can cook your meals. Remember to use them responsibly and ensure fires are completely extinguished.
The village of Saariselkä has grocery stores where you can purchase supplies for your trip. It's advisable to stock up before heading deep into the park.
Saariselkä offers a range of dining options, from casual cafes to restaurants serving local Finnish cuisine. You can find options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Wilderness huts are self-catering. You must bring all your own food and cooking supplies. Some huts may have basic cooking facilities like a stove or fireplace.
📸 📸 Photography
The park offers stunning natural beauty year-round. Look for dramatic fells, vast wilderness, and the magical Northern Lights. Luirojärvi and Sokosti are iconic locations.
The Northern Lights are typically visible from late August to April, with the darkest, clearest nights offering the best chances. Winter months provide the longest periods of darkness.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod is essential for low-light photography, especially for the aurora.
Yes, specialized photography tours focusing on landscapes and the Northern Lights are offered by local guides, providing access to prime locations and expert advice.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful, soft light for landscape photography. Winter also has unique light conditions with low sun angles.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The park's diverse trails mean you can choose routes suitable for younger legs, ensuring everyone can enjoy the stunning scenery. Consider staying in Saariselkä, which offers family-friendly accommodation and amenities. Many guided tours are also available and can cater to families, providing a safe and engaging way to explore the wilderness. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and warm clothing, especially for winter visits.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
While the park is generally safe, it's always wise for solo travelers to inform someone of their itinerary and expected return time. Carrying a map, compass, and communication device is recommended. The community of hikers often shares the same respect for the wilderness, leading to a peaceful and shared experience.
📸 Nature Photographers
+1 Winter offers unique light and snowscapes, while autumn brings vibrant colors. Consider visiting during the 'golden hours' for landscape shots. For aurora photography, aim for clear, dark nights between late August and April. Bringing a tripod and a range of lenses will maximize your photographic opportunities. Specialized photography tours can guide you to the best locations.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Winter Adventures in Urho Kekkonen
Beyond skiing, snowshoeing offers a more relaxed way to explore the snowy landscapes, allowing you to venture off-piste and discover untouched beauty. For a thrilling adventure, husky sledding provides an unforgettable ride through the Arctic wilderness, pulled by a team of energetic dogs.
And of course, winter is prime time for witnessing the Northern Lights, a breathtaking celestial display that paints the night sky with vibrant colors. When planning a winter trip, remember that daylight hours are short, and temperatures can be very low. Dressing in warm, layered clothing is crucial. Wilderness huts provide a cozy refuge, but always be prepared for remote conditions.
Hiking and Berry Picking in Summer and Autumn
Late summer and early autumn are particularly special due to the abundance of wild berries. You can find blueberries, lingonberries, and cloudberries, making for delicious foraging opportunities during your hikes. This season also offers stunning autumn foliage, painting the landscape in vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows.
When hiking, it's advisable to plan your routes, especially for longer treks. While many trails are well-marked, the park's sheer size means you can still find solitude and a sense of true wilderness. Remember to carry sufficient water or a purification method, as not all water sources are consistently available.
The Legacy of Urho Kekkonen
This vast national park, stretching towards the Russian border, embodies the wild and untamed spirit of Finnish Lapland. It's a place where nature reigns supreme, offering a sanctuary for wildlife and a profound experience for those who seek it. The park's existence is a tribute to preserving these unique Arctic landscapes for future generations.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit