Urho Kekkonen National Park

Inari, Sodankylä, Savukoski
Lapland

A Legend of the Wilderness

The winding Luiro River was the best way to traverse old Sompio in summer. In days gone by, many a man would travel this remote path through the Lapland wilderness, enduring the fierce grip of frost, braving snowstorms, constantly at the mercy of the elements and his curved-horned reindeer – surrounded by the unforgiving wild.
-Samuli Paulaharju in ‘Sompio’

Urho Kekkonen National Park, vast and expansive, is one of the most famous wilderness areas in Finland. It holds within it landscapes that even many Finns are unaware of, landscapes they may have only heard of in passing. The breathtaking beauty of Paratiisikuru, Paradise Gorge, the sacred presence of the Nattaset Fells, and the countless bends of the Luiro River capture the heart – once visited, this place beckons you to return time and again.

On the western edge of UKK National Park lies Sompio Nature Reserve, where the Pyhä-Nattaset fells rise. In Sompio Nature Reserve, visitors may walk only on the two official trails: the Pyhä-Nattanen circular trail and the Ruija Trail leading to Saariselkä.

Services

Villages and Services Near Urho Kekkonen National Park

Northern Lapland is sparsely populated, but its villages do offer services. Here are some examples of localities near Urho Kekkonen National Park:

Saariselkä is a ski resort with amenities such as a spa, hotels, many cabins, restaurants, and grocery stores. It also serves as a main gateway to Urho Kekkonen National Park, where several scenic circular trails of varying lengths start. You can reach Saariselkä by bus from both Ivalo and Rovaniemi.

Tankavaara is a small, intriguing place in the middle of nowhere, yet easily accessible by bus from Ivalo and Rovaniemi. Tankavaara is home to the Gold Village, which hosts gold-panning competitions, among other activities. There is also accommodation and a restaurant. From Tankavaara, you can access a few circular trails within Urho Kekkonen National Park, though these trails are not connected to the park’s main trail network.

Vuotso is a small village with a local store and a guesthouse. It is the closest village to Sompio Nature Reserve. You can get to Vuotso by bus from Ivalo and Rovaniemi, but note that from the village of Vuotso, there is still over 10 kilometers to reach Sompio Nature Reserve’s trails via a small gravel road, which is generally not maintained in winter.

Find Your Cabin in the Northeastern Wilderness

The vast UKK National Park offers a wealth of experiences in every direction. If you enjoy short day hikes and a variety of services, it’s best to stay on the western side of the park, close to Tankavaara, Kiilopää, or Saariselkä, near the main highway. However, if you’re seeking the deep peace of true wilderness and wish to avoid the crowds, head to the eastern and southeastern parts of the park, near the Kemihaara area.

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Trails in Urho Kekkonen National Park

First Time in Urho Kekkonen National Park?

For a light and intriguing introduction to the national park, try one of the circular trails around Tankavaara, Kiilopää, or Saariselkä. More experienced hikers can head into the heart of the park, where numerous huts, campfire spots, trails, and bridges make it possible to embark on extended treks across the vast national park. Those setting out on longer hikes often aim to explore areas like Korvatunturi, Sokosti, and the Luirojärvi region.

Urho Kekkonen National Park, which borders Russia along its eastern edge, is true wilderness at its most authentic. Please note that if you plan to venture even a bit deeper into the park, you should have hiking experience and skills specific to the Lapland wilderness, along with proper equipment that you know how to use and are sure will suit the conditions. This far north, snowfall can surprise you even in summer, and the weather can change very quickly. If you are not an experienced Lapland hiker, stick to the marked nature trails, which can be found in Saariselkä, Kiilopää, and Tankavaara.

Trails of Tankavaara

The trails starting from the parking area of the Tankavaara Experience and Conference Center and the Gold Museum (Tankavaarantie 11C) also serve as snowshoe trails in winter:

Urpiaislenkki (1 km) is an accessible loop through the forest.
Koppelolenkki (3 km) winds beneath tall candle-shaped spruces.
The War History Trail (3 km) offers a glimpse into Lapland’s past with varied terrain. Along the trail, you can visit a wartime dugout, safely accessible to the public.
Kuukkelilenkki (6 km) leads to the top of Pikku-Tankavaara, where you can enjoy views of the Nattastunturi hills and beyond.
The Geological Trail (7 km) explores remnants of the Ice Age and leads you to a beautiful break spot by the shore of Koiranjuomalampi Pond.

Trails of Kiilopää

Several day-hike trails start from the Kiilopää gateway:

Vasapolku (1 km) is a short loop designed for children, introducing them to the wonders of fell nature.
Kiirunapolku (6 km) is a circular route that takes you up to the summit of Kiilopää, offering unforgettable fell landscapes. In winter, this trail can be explored with snowshoes.
Poropolku (5.3 km) leads to the crystal-clear headwaters of Kiilo-oja Stream and beautiful fell scenery.
Luulampi Circular Trail (11 km) guides you through the Luulampi area and its surrounding sandy terrain, which has been inhabited since the Stone Age.
Ahopää Circular Trail (14 km) is a scenic route of moderate difficulty. Along the way, you’ll see traces of the Ice Age, expansive fell views, and highlights like the surroundings of Luulampi.

Trails of Saariselkä

Several circular trails are available from the Saariselkä gateway:

Aurorapolku (2.1 km) is a loop through fell nature, perfect for admiring the northern lights or the midnight sun.
Iisakkipää Trail (3–7 km) can be hiked as either a 3 km or 7 km loop. The shorter route showcases gorge-like scenery, while the longer version takes you to the summit of Iisakkipää.
Prospektori (7.4–9 km) is a circular trail that leads you into the mystical world of gold prospecting. Starting from Saariselkä, the trail length is 9 km; from Laanila, it’s 7.4 km.
Rumakuru (14 km) offers a tour of impressive gorge landscapes, despite its name, which translates to “Ugly Gorge.” Rumakuru is a steep-walled and striking sight to behold.

How to get there

Frequent Bus Service on Highway E75

The most versatile day-hiking destinations in UKK National Park, Tankavaara and Saariselkä, are located along Highway E75, making them easy to reach by bus, with several services running daily from both Ivalo and Rovaniemi. You can travel to Ivalo by plane or bus, and to Rovaniemi additionally by train. Those wishing to explore deeper into Urho Kekkonen National Park will need to arrange other transportation.

By car

Below is a list of parking areas near Urho Kekkonen National Park, including their names and addresses:

Kiilopää: Kiilopääntie 620, 99830 Saariselkä
Saariselkä: Lutontie, 99830 Saariselkä
Tankavaara: Tankavaarantie 11 B, 99695 Tankavaara
Aittajärvi Parking Area: Accessible in the snow-free season, though the road may be in poor condition.

By public transport

There are several daily bus services between Rovaniemi and Ivalo, providing access to Tankavaara, Kiilopää, and Saariselkä.
The nearest airports are in Ivalo and Rovaniemi. You can also reach Rovaniemi by night train from Helsinki.