Watch the Northern Lights in Salla, Lapland

Located in Eastern Lapland, Salla is home to Finland’s newest national park, Salla National Park. The park offers a variety of excellent walking trails, and the area also features relatively easy-to-access weather shelters built especially for those wishing to watch the Northern Lights. The grey weather and snow-covered ground painted the landscape in their own shades of black and white during our visit, but it was especially the brand-new aurora shelters that made me sigh with delight.

Kaunisharju shelter on the map

Ämmin Polku shelter on the map

Keselmäjärvi shelter on the map

The shelters’ fresh, sturdy and beautiful appearance genuinely delighted me. How wonderful it is to see something so different, yet so timeless and elegant! A closer look revealed that these shelters are not only attractive but also thoughtfully designed with practicality firmly in mind: each structure features three distinct “spaces,” all of which are sure to be useful in varying weather conditions. Along the back wall of the building, there is a long bench and windows – undoubtedly offering excellent protection from the wind. At the front, one section includes a table and benches, while the other has benches only.

Below are photos from the Kaunisharju viewpoint. This area is part of the national park.

Two of the other shelters are also located by the Sallatunturi fells. One stands at the beginning of the Ämmin Polku trail, and next to it you will find an open kota shelter as well. The third shelter is situated on the shore of Lake Keselmäjärvi, where there is also a kota. There is no designated campfire site at Kaunisharju itself, but the nearest ones can be found along the shore of nearby Lake Kolmiloukkonen. In this region, there is no shortage of lean-tos and other campfire spots in general, so it is fair to say that Salla pampers not only aurora enthusiasts but also those who enjoy sitting by the fire.

Sotkan Ämmi’s Spring

We followed Ämmin Polku Path for a while before leaving the main loop and heading towards Sotkan Ämmi’s Spring, which was clearly signposted.

Despite the deep snow, the spring remained unfrozen and bubbled cheerfully, just as I had expected. From the Hangasjärventie junction, the walking distance is just over one kilometre each way. It is absolutely worth a visit! I wonder if the spring stays open throughout the winter?

Sotkan Ämmi’s Spring on the map

Now that these lovely and practical shelters have been built for everyone to enjoy, it would be wonderful if we could all help keep them clean and in good condition. Let’s not mark the walls or leave any litter behind.

I also recommend visiting Salla Reindeer Park (Address: Hautajärventie 111), which features a free and beautifully designed exhibition about the region’s nature and natural attractions. The park also has a café, and it is well worth asking the staff for tips on choosing a route in the Salla area that best suits you or your group.

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