Finland is home to a stunning array of national parks, each offering unique landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor recreational opportunities. These national parks are protected areas that showcase the country’s natural beauty and provide opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the Finnish wilderness. Here are descriptions of some of the most notable national parks in Finland:
- Lemmenjoki National Park: Located in Finnish Lapland, Lemmenjoki is the largest national park in Finland. It is known for its rugged, remote wilderness, pristine rivers, and vast expanses of untouched nature. The park is a popular destination for hiking, fishing, and gold panning, with many marked trails and wilderness huts for visitors.
- Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park: Situated in the western part of Finnish Lapland, this park is famous for its fells and vast open wilderness. It offers excellent opportunities for hiking, cross-country skiing, and witnessing the Northern Lights. The Pallas and Ylläs fells provide some of the best panoramic views in the region.
- Nuuksio National Park: Nuuksio is the closest national park to Helsinki, the capital of Finland. This park offers a peaceful and easily accessible escape into nature. Visitors can explore the tranquil lakes, thick forests, and rocky terrain through various hiking trails, perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
- Repovesi National Park: Repovesi is known for its rugged landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and pristine forests. Located in Southern Finland, it’s a popular destination for hiking, rock climbing, kayaking, and camping. The park’s suspension bridge and scenic viewpoints offer breathtaking vistas.
- Koli National Park: Located in eastern Finland, Koli National Park is famous for its striking landscapes, including the Koli Hill, which offers stunning views of Lake Pielinen. Hiking, birdwatching, and winter sports are popular activities in this park.
- Oulanka National Park: Situated in the northeastern part of Finland, Oulanka National Park is known for its rugged river valleys, roaring rapids, and lush forests. The Karhunkierros Trail is a well-known hiking route that takes you through the park’s diverse terrain.
- Lauhanvuori National Park: Located in western Finland, this park is known for its unique landscape, featuring a hill with an open, treeless summit. It’s a great spot for birdwatching, hiking, and exploring the area’s distinctive geology.
- Seitseminen National Park: Situated in western Finland, this park boasts a mixture of pine forests, mires, and ponds. Hiking trails, campfire sites, and an observation tower provide opportunities to enjoy the serene nature.
- Helvetinjärvi National Park: Known for its rugged terrain, deep gorges, and beautiful lakes, Helvetinjärvi National Park is located in the western part of the country. It’s a popular place for trekking, rock climbing, and nature photography.
- Pyhä-Luosto National Park: This national park, situated in Finnish Lapland, is famous for its distinct geological formations, including the Lampivaara Amethyst Mine. Visitors can explore the rocky landscapes, take part in winter sports, and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Finland’s national parks are a testament to the country’s commitment to preserving its unique and diverse natural heritage. They offer a wide range of activities for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, making them an ideal destination for those looking to explore the beauty of Finland’s wilderness.
Author: Kirill Shrayber, Ph.D.