For nature lovers visiting Lapland during summer, we want to give you our recommendations about the best hikes in Rovaniemi as well as the best hikes in Lapland.
Lapland, a vast region located in northern Europe, is a true paradise for hiking enthusiasts. With its stunning landscapes, vast wilderness and unspoiled nature, Lapland offers endless opportunities for exploration on foot. Take advantage of your holiday in Lapland and the endless days of summer to explore the vast expanses of forests, sparkling lakes and green hills. Hiking trails in Rovaniemi and elsewhere in Lapland are often well maintained. They will allow you to discover breathtaking landscapes, and perhaps even to meet reindeer, or other wild animals.
Table of Contents
HIKING NEAR ROVANIEMI
Hiking near Rovaniemi is one of the main activities not to be missed during your stay in Lapland during the summertime. We have listed for you the main hiking trails to discover on your own.
THE OUNASVAARA HIKING TRAIL
Ounasvaara is a hill located in Rovaniemi, offering hiking trails suitable for all levels. Whether you choose a relaxing stroll or a more strenuous hike, you’ll be surrounded by lush boreal forest and can enjoy spectacular views of the city and surrounding rivers. There is also an observation tower (160m above sea level) located on the rocky western slope of the Ounasvaara hiking trail. It offers a superb view of the city of Rovaniemi and its Kemijoki River (the longest river in Finland). In summer, do not miss the midnight sun while going hiking near Rovaniemi, it is a unique experience to live.
Trail info:
The starting point of this trail is 1.6km from the city centre. All you must do is cross the famous “lumberjack’s bridge” in Rovaniemi to get there. From this starting point, the loop is approximately 8.6 km. If you want to enjoy a shorter walk, it is also possible to start your walk from the Lapland Hotel Sky Ounasvaara. In this way, you can choose the distance you want to travel.
- Departure of the hike:
- 1.6km from downtown Rovaniemi if you want to do the whole loop (8.6km). Here is the starting point
- Lapland Hotel Sky Ounasvaara (Starting point) if you want to take a relaxing stroll.
- How to get there :
- Walk
- By car
- By taxi
- By bike (rental possible)
- Difficulty: easy
- Distance: 8.6 km for the entire loop
- Average hiking time: 4 hours for the entire loop
MAP OF THE HIKING TRAIL
Open Ounasvaara winter trail map directly from – Etiäinen
Note: In summer, the ski resort of Ounasvaara offers a large bobsleigh run (Summer – Ounasvaara) (lien) which is super fun to do with the family! A secure chairlift at the bottom of the ski slope will take you to the top of the hill (110m), from where you can admire the magnificent view. The bobsleigh track is 750 meters long. This summer activity is suitable for everyone because of its safety: one can easily control the speed by using the brake.
THE VIKAKÖNGÄS TRAIL
If you wish to go hiking near Rovaniemi, this is one of the trail you should consider. Located between lakes Vikajärvi and Olkkajärvi, Vikaköngäs is a true natural gem and one of the most pleasant trails for hiking near Rovaniemi. Nestled in the heart of a lush forest 25 km from the city, this enchanting site offers hiking enthusiasts the opportunity to immerse themselves in a preserved landscape and explore picturesque trails. The soothing sound of cascading water through the rapids will add a relaxing ambience to your wilderness adventure.
ARCTIC CIRCLE HIKING AREA
Vikaköngäs is one of the many hiking trails in the “Arctic Circle hiking area”. These trails offer a variety of landscapes and levels of difficulty to satisfy all hikers. Whether you are new or experienced, there is something for everyone. The well-maintained trails will lead you through vast forests, along crystal-clear streams and through some swamps. The breathtaking views will reward every step taken. One of the highlights of hiking in Vikaköngäs is the magnificent rapids that give the site its name. The power of its clear water which rushes over the rocks creates a striking spectacle.
MAP OF THE HIKING TRAIL
Open the hiking map directly on AllTrails.com
Trail info:
- Start of the hike: Vikaköngäs parking area 25 km from Rovaniemi.
- How to get there ? Accessible only by car.
- Difficulty: medium
- Distance: about 3.5 km
- Time: 1.5 hours
Advice: for more serenity, comfort and conviviality, we advise you to book a guided hike. Going with a guide allows you to access more remote and varied places. Your guide will also share lots of information and anecdotes about Lapland.
If you decide to go alone, it is advisable to have a map of the trails and to follow the safety rules in force. Respect the natural environment by leaving no trace of your passage.
THE VAATTUNKIVAARA TRAIL
This trail is also one of the most popular place to go hiking near Rovaniemi. Known for its unspoiled natural beauty, this destination offers captivating trails, breathtaking panoramic views and total immersion in the tranquility of the Lappish wilderness. In this paragraph, we invite you to discover the wonders of Vaattunkiköngäs nature trail and let yourself be enchanted by the surrounding nature.
MAP OF HIKING TRAIL
Open the hiking map directly fron julkaisut.metsa.fi
The well-marked trails will guide you through varied landscapes, including forests, sparkling lakes and scenic hills. Prepare to be amazed at every turn of the way. Some of the beautiful destinations along the trail include the rapids, Vaattunkivaara Hill, Vaattunkilampi Pond, Vianaapa and the Könkäänsaaret Islands. This trail also includes some nice bog areas.
Trail info:
- Start of the hike: Vaattunkiköngäs parking area located 23 km from Rovaniemi.
- How to get there? Accessible only by car.
- Difficulty: medium
- Distance: 10 km (one way)
- Time: 4h
WALKING ON KOIVUSAARI ISLAND
This is the closest place to go hiking near Rovaniemi. Koivusaari is an island near Rovaniemi city center, where the nature is unspoiled and the wildlife surprisingly diverse. If you want to hike in Rovaniemi without going too far, this is the ideal walk. During your hike, you will be surrounded by a dense forest composed mainly of birches, hence the name “Koivusaari”, which means “island of birches” and vast marshes.
Moreover, Koivusaari is a paradise for lovers of fauna and flora. During your hike, you will most likely be able to observe the huge variety of birds that inhabit the island. Indeed, Koivusaari is a delight for photographers or bird lovers. The shores of this island provide shelter for nesting and migrating birds. 135 different species of birds have been spotted on the islands, and 90 to 100 species nest there. There is even an observation tower so you can observe these migratory animals. Don’t forget your binoculars!
In 1946, there were trains running on the ice and through Koivusaari, after Rovaniemi saw its bridges destroyed by German soldiers. Today, a monument is present on the island in memory of this time.
If you are interested in a guided boat trip (lien) around Rovaniemi, this program will take you, among other things, around the island of Koivusaari in the delta of the Ounasjoki river.
Trail info:
- Start of the hike: you can park at Ounaspaviljonki Marina (only 2.3km from downtown Rovaniemi)
- How to get there ?
- Walk
- By car
- By taxi
- By bike (rental possible)
Once you are parked near the Ounaspaviljonki marina, you will have to go to the end of the car park and climb the stairs there. This will take you to a pedestrian path (20-30 meters) near the road, then take you down a second staircase to the island of Koivusaari.
- Difficulty: easy
- Distance: About 2 km
- Time: 30-45 mins
MAP OF THE HIKING TRAIL
Open the hiking map directly on etiainen.fi
EXPLORE HIIDENKIRNUT
Another place to go hiking near Rovaniemi is Hiidenkirnut. First, it is an enchanting destination that fascinates visitors with its unique natural landscape. Known as the “potholes”, this intriguing geological formation offers a breathtaking sight.
Indeed, Hiidenkirnu is a set of eroded rocks that were formed thousands of years ago by the action of glacial meltwater. The “Giant’s potholes” are round and deep cavities dug in the rock by the swirling movement of the tumultuous waters. These cavities are the result of a fascinating geological process that has left a unique natural legacy.
Trail info:
- Start of the walk: Hiidenkirnu car park 25 km from Rovaniemi
- How to get there? By car
- Difficulty: easy
- Distance: About 2 km
- Time: 30-45 mins
BEST HIKES IN LAPLAND
In the following part, we are going to give you our list of the best hikes in Lapland to explore during you summer vacation in Finland.
HIKING IN KOROUOMA NATIONAL PARK
Again, this is a not to be missed place to go hiking near Rovaniemi. Korouoma is located about a hundred kilometers east of Rovaniemi. One of Korouoma’s most notable features is its impressive gorge. Carved by the Korojoki River, the Korouoma Gorge offers steep rock walls that rise up to 100 meters in height. During your summer hike, you can follow the well-maintained trails that meander through the gorge, offering breathtaking views of towering cliffs and unique rock formations. It is an experience that will make you feel very small in the face of the grandeur of nature.
THE KORONJÄÄ TRAIL
Along the trail, hikers will have the chance to admire Korouoma’s three largest waterfalls, called Jaska Jokunen (Charlie Brown), Ruskea virta (Brown River) and Mammuttiputous (Mammoth Waterfall).
The lush vegetation and the river in the canyon in summer are definitely worth the trip!
Trail info:
- Start of the hike: SAUKKO-VAARA car park
- How to get there ? Accessible only by car.
- Difficulty: intermediate / advanced (due to altitude differences)
- Distance: about 5 km
- Time: 2-3 hours
THE PIIPPUKALLION PIHAUS TRAIL
The Piippukallion pihaus offers a varied feast for the eyes and trails that will get your pulse racing. From the high hills, there is a view towards the opposite canyons and you can see the Korojoki river, flowing through the canyon.
Trail info:
- Start of the hike: SAUKKO-VAARA car park (https://goo.gl/maps/91fUm3pimvsGXWhe8)
- How to get there ? Accessible only by car.
- Difficulty: Advanced (due to elevation differences, rocks and roots).
- Distance: about 5 km
- Time: 3-4 hours
MAP OF THE HIKING TRAILS IN KOROUOMA NATIONAL PARK
Open the hiking map directly on metsa.fi
HIKING IN THE RIISITUNTURI NATIONAL PARK
If you are an outdoor enthusiast looking for a unique experience, hiking in Riisitunturi is an ideal choice and definitly one of the best hikes in Lapland. Nestled in the heart of Finnish Lapland, Riisitunturi National Park (located in Posio) offers lush forests and breathtaking panoramic views. The hiking trails will take you through dense and diverse vegetation, where you can observe a multitude of plant and animal species. Birds sing in the trees, reindeer move gracefully through the grasslands, and you might even spot a willow ptarmigan, an iconic bird species of the region.
In the Riisitunturi National Park, there are many marked hiking routes that will take you for day or multi-day hikes.
EASY HIKES
TRAIL TO RIISITUNTURI OPEN WILDERNESS HUT
The path to the Riisitunturi Open Wilderness Hut starts from the starting point of Riisitunturi up to the laavu in the wilderness, first through a coniferous forest and then through bogs. The route is mostly uphill when heading towards the cabin.
Trail info:
- Start of the hike: from this parking area
- How to get there ? Accessible only by car.
- Difficulty: easy
- Distance: About 3km round trip
- Time: about 1.5 hours
RIISIN RÄÄPÄSY TRAIL
The Riisin rääpäsy trail is a scenic route to Mount Riisitunturi. The scenery along the way includes, for example, views of the Kitkajärvi lakes, the Ikkunalampi pond, the hanging bogs and the peak of Riisitunturi.
Trail info:
- Start of the hike: here (link)
- How to get there? Accessible only by car.
- Difficulty: easy
- Distance: About 4.3 km (loop)
- Time: 2-3 hours
MORE ADVANCED HIKING TRAIL
THE ROUTE OF RIISIN RIETAS
It is the longest day trip trail in Riisitunturi National Park. This route crosses the peaks of the national park, bogs and forests. Riisin rietas has several rest areas suitable for a snack break.
Trail info:
- Start of the hike: here
- How to get there ? Accessible only by car.
- Difficulty: intermediate – advanced
- Distance: Approximately 10.7 km (loop)
- Time: 4-5 hours
MAP OF THE HIKING TRAILS IN THE RIISITUNTURI NATIONAL PARK
Open the hiking map directly from Metsa.fi
HIKING IN PYHÄ-LUOSTO NATIONAL PARK
THE TUNTURIAAPA TRAIL
The first 600 meters run along the pedestrian and cycle route. As you enter the national park, the trail will take you through varied moorland forests to a beautiful bog bordered by a beautiful mountain range. The trail is mostly an easy gravel path but has some elevation differences and stairs in the steeper sections.
Trail info:
- Start of the hike: here (link)
- How to get there? By car.
- Difficulty: easy
- Distance: 7km
- Time: 2-3 hours
THE KARHUNJUOMALAMPI TRAIL
Along this trail, you will discover the most famous sites of the national park: the impressive Isokuru gorge as well as the Pyhänkasteenputous waterfall and the Uhriharju ridge considered sacred by the ancient Sámi forest.
Important note:
The Isokuru Gorge is a restricted area, and therefore it is forbidden to deviate from the marked summer trail for the sake of nature and for the safety of hikers.
Trail info:
- Start of the hike: here
- How to get there? By car.
- Difficulty: mostly easy, partly intermediate due to steep climbs and stairs.
- Distance: 10km
- Time: 3-4 hours
MAP OF THE HIKING TRAILS IN PYHÄ-LUOSTO NATIONAL PARK
Open the hiking map directly from metsa.fi
HIKING IN PALLAS-YLLÄSTUNTURI NATIONAL PARK
This national park is well known by locals to have some of the best hikes in Lapland.
PIRUNKURUN PONNISTUS TRAIL IN YLLÄS
The first part of the trail is an easy hike through open forest to the Kesänkijärvi lean-to shelter. When the trail turns into a ravine, it’s time to test yourself on the rocks. The steep climb to Kesänkitunturi Fell and loose rocks underfoot require hikers to work hard. Pause to wipe the sweat from your brow and admire the majestic ravine and sweeping waterfall landscapes behind you.
Trail info:
- Start of the hike: Kesänkijärven car park
- How to get there? By car.
- Difficulty: intermediate
- Distance: 8km
- Time: 3 hours
MAP OF THE HIKING TRAILS IN PALLAS-YLLÄSTUNTURI NATIONAL PARK
Open the hiking map directly from metsa.fi
WALKING ON THE JYPPYRÄNPOLKU TRAIL IN ENONTEKIÖ
The Jyppyränpolku trail is the shortest way to reach the photogenic views over the hills of the national park. It is also a very good choice of hiking in Lapland to see the magical midnight sun.
Admire the incredible view from the laavu of Jyppyrä: can you spot the church and the village of Hetta? On a clear day you can see as far as the high hills of the Käsivarsi and Halti Fell region.
During the summer, the midnight sun remains low on the horizon and the sun does not set for almost two months. You will forget the rush of everyday life and time will lose its meaning. The silence of the hills offers space for your thoughts.
Trail info:
- Start of the hike: Lapland visitor centre car park
- How to get there? By car.
- Difficulty: easy
- Distance: 2km
- Time: 1 hour
MAP OF THE HIKING TRAILS
Open the hiking map directly fromNationalparks.fi
HIKING IN UHRO KEKKONEN NATIONAL PARK
THE KIIRUNAPOLKU TRAIL
Urho Kekkonen National Park, located in northern Finland, is a true wonder of nature. With its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife and well-maintained trails, it offers hiking enthusiasts an unforgettable experience. The Kiirunapolku is a paradise for bird lovers!
Trail info:
- Departure of the hike: From the Kiilopää starting gate
- How to get there? By car.
- Difficulty: intermediate
- Distance: 6km
- Time: 2-3 hours
MAP OF THE HIKING TRAILS
Open the hiking mao directly on metsa.fi
THE POROPOLKU TRAIL
The Poropolku Trail, which means “Reindeer Trail” in Finnish, is a popular hiking route in Lapland that passes through Urho Kekkonen National Park (former President of the Republic of Finland). This well-marked trail stretches for approximately 5 kilometers, offering hikers a complete immersion in the rugged beauty of Finnish Lapland.
When it comes to wildlife, the Poropolku trail is renowned for its encounters with reindeer (hence its name), the true kings of the area. You will be able to observe these majestic creatures moving freely in their natural habitat. Also keep an eye out for other iconic animals such as moose, swans and foxes.
Trail info:
- Departure of the hike: From the Kiilopää starting gate (lien)
- How to get there? By car.
- Difficulty: easy
- Distance: 5.3km
- Time: 2-3 hours
Open the hiking map directly from metsa.fi
Conclusion
Hiking in Finnish Lapland is an extraordinary experience that will take you to the heart of breathtaking landscapes, unspoilt nature and rich culture. Whether you choose to venture up the hills of Riisitunturi, explore the majestic gorge of Korouoma or discover the magic of Koivusaari in Rovaniemi, every step you take will bring you closer to the pure beauty of arctic nature.
In this article, we have discussed some of the marked hikes among the most beautiful national parks in Lapland. There are countless wonderful hikes to be done in this beautiful region. You will find all the hikes listed on the official website: National Parks
Advice before going hiking in Rovaniemi or elsewhere in Lapland
Proper preparation is essential to fully enjoy hiking in Finnish Lapland. Make sure you are well equipped, follow the advice of local authorities and respect the fragile environment. In return, you will be rewarded with moments of calm, contemplation and deep connection with nature that will leave lasting memories. So, prepare your backpack, put on your hiking boots and set off to discover these enchanting landscapes that await you in Finnish Lapland!
