Hiking in Finland: 12 Epic Trails for Every Adventure Level

Finland’s stunning landscapes range from rocky coastal paths to sprawling northern fells. The country’s trails wind through ancient forests, alongside thousands of lakes, and across arctic tundra.

Hiking in Finland offers something remarkable in every season – summer brings endless daylight, autumn paints forests in fiery colors, winter transforms paths into snowshoe routes, and spring brings wildflowers and rushing waterfalls.

12 Best Trails for Hiking in Finland

1. Hetta-Pallas Hiking Trail

The Hetta-Pallas Trail stretches across the fells of western Lapland, offering some of the most magnificent mountain views in Finland.

This trail runs through Finland’s oldest national park and remains one of the country’s most popular hiking trails for couples in Finland seeking a multi-day adventure.

• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging (requires good fitness and hiking experience)

• Distance: 55 km (typically covered in 3-4 days)

• Location: Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park, Western Lapland

• Cost: Free access; wilderness huts cost €15-25 per night (₹1,350-2,250)

• Great for: Experienced hikers, nature photographers, couples seeking adventure

• Coordinates: 68.3710° N, 24.0260° E

• Key Tips:

  • Book wilderness huts months in advance during peak season (July-September)

  • Bring warm clothes even in summer, as mountain weather changes rapidly

  • Carry a physical map as backup

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2. Pieni Karhunkierros (Little Bear’s Trail)

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This loop trail in Oulanka National Park features dramatic river canyons, suspension bridges, and rushing rapids. It’s among the most famous hiking spots in Finland and offers spectacular scenery without requiring extreme fitness or technical skills.

• Difficulty: Moderate (suitable for reasonably fit beginners)

• Distance: 12 km loop (typically takes 4-6 hours)

• Location: Oulanka National Park, Kuusamo (northeastern Finland)

• Cost: Free

• Great for: Families with older children, photographers, day-trippers

• Coordinates: 66.3700° N, 29.3200° E

• Key Tips:

  • Wear sturdy footwear as parts of the trail can be slippery

  • Bring lunch for a picnic at Kallioportti viewpoint

  • Start early in peak season (June-August) to avoid crowds

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3. Luulampi Trail

The Luulampi Trail provides an excellent taste of Lapland’s varied landscapes. This circular route passes through forests, open bogs, and small lakes. It’s one of the most accessible free hiking trails in Finland in the Urho Kekkonen National Park region.

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

• Distance: 11 km (4-5 hours)

• Location: Urho Kekkonen National Park, Lapland

• Cost: Free

• Great for: Beginners, nature lovers, birdwatchers

• Coordinates: 68.2330° N, 27.3600° E

• Key Tips:

  • Bring insect repellent during the summer months (June-August)

  • Check trail conditions at the visitor center before starting

  • Good for spotting reindeer in their natural habitat

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4. Saana Fell Trail

Saana Fell stands as an iconic landmark near Finland’s northwestern tip. The trail to its summit rewards hikers with panoramic views across three countries—Finland, Sweden, and Norway.

Many consider this one of the best hiking trails for couples in Finland, looking for a memorable day hike.

• Difficulty: Moderate (steep in sections)

• Distance: 8 km round trip (3-4 hours)

• Location: Kilpisjärvi, northwestern Lapland

• Cost: Free

• Great for: Couples, photographers, those seeking stunning viewpoints

• Coordinates: 69.0450° N, 20.8720° E

• Key Tips:

  • Hike at midnight during summer (June-July) to experience the midnight sun

  • Bring warm layers as the summit is often windy

  • Suitable for a day trip from Kilpisjärvi village

5. St. Olav’s Path (St. Olav’s Waterway Trail)

This historic pilgrimage route connects Finland’s Turku Cathedral to Sweden, following ancient paths used by medieval travelers.

The Finnish section offers a blend of coastal walks, island hopping, and cultural sites, making it ideal for those interested in combining hiking in Finland with history.

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Distance: Finnish section approximately 120 km (typically done in segments)

• Location: Southwest Finland, starting in Turku

• Cost: Free to hike; ferry tickets between islands €5-15 each (₹450-1,350)

• Great for: History buffs, cultural travelers, those seeking a less crowded experience

• Coordinates: Starts at 60.4518° N, 22.2666° E (Turku Cathedral)

• Key Tips:

  • Plan ferry schedules carefully, as some run infrequently

  • Bring a pilgrim passport from Turku Cathedral for stamps

  • Best hiked May-September

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6. Repovesi National Park Trail

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Located just a few hours from Helsinki, Repovesi offers dramatic rock formations, pristine lakes, and dense forests. The park features several interconnected trails, making it perfect for customizable day hikes and one of the top destinations for group hiking in Finland.

• Difficulty: Easy to challenging (depending on route chosen)

• Distance: Various trails from 5-26 km

• Location: Kouvola, Southern Finland

• Cost: Free

• Great for: Day-trippers from Helsinki, groups, families with teenagers

• Coordinates: 61.0930° N, 26.8740° E

• Key Tips:

  • Don’t miss the Fox Ferry hand-operated cable ferry

  • Water taxi service available for shortcuts (€5/₹450 per person)

  • Bring plenty of water as sources are limited

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7. Sipoonkorpi National Park Trails

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Just 30 minutes from Helsinki, Sipoonkorpi offers an accessible taste of Finnish nature. The varied network of trails makes this park ideal for quick escapes from the city and casual hiking in Finland for beginners or families.

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

• Distance: 4-20 km (various loops)

• Location: Near Helsinki, Uusimaa region

• Cost: Free

• Great for: Beginners, families, Helsinki visitors with limited time

• Coordinates: 60.3180° N, 25.1800° E

• Key Tips:

  • Accessible by public transport from Helsinki (bus #93K)

  • Trails can be muddy in spring and after rain

  • Storträsk pond has good fishing opportunities (license required)

8. Orrainpolku Trail, Savitaipale

This pleasant circular route in South Karelia showcases typical Finnish forest landscapes, small lakes, and rocky outcrops. It’s a peaceful trail that’s perfect for experiencing the quieter side of hiking in Finland.

• Difficulty: Easy

• Distance: 10 km loop (3-4 hours)

• Location: Savitaipale, South Karelia

• Cost: Free

• Great for: Families, casual hikers, nature lovers

• Coordinates: 61.2220° N, 27.6880° E

• Key Tips:

  • Visit in late July or August for prime berry picking along the trail

  • Bring mosquito repellent in summer

  • Parking is available at the trailhead

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9. Öja Archipelago Trail

The Öja Archipelago Trail offers hikers a taste of Finland’s coastal beauty with sea breezes, rocky shores, and island landscapes. It’s becoming increasingly popular for hiking in Finland among those seeking coastal views rather than forests.

• Difficulty: Easy

• Distance: 13 km (5-6 hours)

• Location: Kokkola, Central Ostrobothnia

• Cost: Free

• Great for: Coastal scenery lovers, birdwatchers, families

• Coordinates: 63.8480° N, 22.9580° E

• Key Tips:

  • Check tide times before setting out

  • Bring binoculars for birdwatching

  • Best experienced from May to September

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10. Pöyrisjärvi Wilderness Area

For those seeking true solitude and challenging terrain, the remote Pöyrisjärvi Wilderness Area offers an authentic wilderness experience.

This vast region has minimal infrastructure, making it ideal for experienced hikers looking for advanced hiking trails in Finland.

• Difficulty: Challenging (requires wilderness experience and navigation skills)

• Distance: Variable, typical routes 50-100 km

• Location: Enontekiö, Lapland

• Cost: Free

• Great for: Experienced backpackers, wilderness enthusiasts, those seeking solitude

• Coordinates: 69.5000° N, 24.5000° E

• Key Tips:

  • Bring a GPS device and physical maps

  • Self-sufficiency is essential as there are few services

  • Notify someone of your route before departing

  • Best time is late July to mid-September

11. Santalahti Nature Trail

The coastal Santalahti Nature Trail offers forest paths and sea views with accessible terrain. It’s perfect for casual walks and family outings, making it a popular choice for gentle hiking in Finland near urban areas.

• Difficulty: Easy

• Distance: 5 km (1-2 hours)

• Location: Kotka, Kymenlaakso

• Cost: Free

• Great for: Families with young children, seniors, casual walkers

• Coordinates: 60.4250° N, 26.9500° E

• Key Tips:

  • Some sections are wheelchair and stroller accessible

  • Beautiful coastal views

  • Combine with a visit to nearby Sapokka Water Garden

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12. Aarnipolku Trail, Seitseminen National Park

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Aarnipolku showcases Finland’s old-growth forests with ancient trees, mossy boulders, and small mires.

This trail provides an excellent introduction to the Finnish national park system and is considered one of the best hiking trails in Finland for experiencing the authentic boreal forest.

• Difficulty: Easy

• Distance: 1.8 km loop (1 hour)

• Location: Seitseminen National Park, Pirkanmaa

• Cost: Free

• Great for: Families, nature lovers, those with limited time

• Coordinates: 61.8440° N, 23.4930° E

• Key Tips:

  • Visit in autumn for spectacular fall colors

  • Bring mosquito repellent in summer

  • Combine with other trails in the park for a longer experience

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FAQs

What are the different types of hiking trails in Finland?

Finland has day trails, circular routes, wilderness paths, and long-distance hikes. Most parks offer options for all levels. The best hiking trails in Finland show clear difficulty ratings.

What is the best time for hiking in Finland?

The best time for hiking in Finland is June to September. July-August is the warmest, with long days. Late August offers autumn colors and fewer mosquitoes. May and October suit southern trails, but the weather varies.

What is the longest trail in Finland?

The Nordkalottleden is 800 km, but only partly in Finland. Karhunkierros is Finland’s longest marked trail at 82 km. It takes 7 days and is among the famous hiking spots in Finland.

Which trail has the most elevation gain in Finland?

Pyhä-Luosto trails have the most elevation gain. Noitatunturi Fell climbs about 500 meters. The Halti route reaches Finland’s highest point with steep sections and challenging climbs.

What is the most popular and difficult trail in Finland?

Karhunkierros is the most popular and challenging of the famous hiking spots in Finland. It’s 82 km with steep climbs and river crossings. Pöyrisjärvi Wilderness is harder due to poor infrastructure and tricky navigation.

Are there camping trails available in Finland?

Yes, camping is allowed under Finland’s “everyman’s right.” Many trails have campsites with fire pits and shelters. The best hiking trails in Finland for camping include Karhunkierros, Hetta-Pallas, and Urho Kekkonen.

Are there running trails available in Finland?

Yes, Finland has many running trails under 15 km in national parks. Cities like Helsinki and Tampere offer trail routes. Summer events attract runners to group hiking in Finland areas.

Are there biking trails available in Finland?

Yes, Finland has many mountain biking trails in national parks like Sipoonkorpi and Repovesi. Trails are clearly marked. Rentals are available. Combine hiking in Finland with cycling easily.