Tiilikkajärvi National Park Travel Guide

Tiilikkajärvi National Park, established in 1982, spans 34 square kilometers, aiming to preserve the wilderness-like lake, river, and esker ecosystems, along with the open aapa bogs surrounding Lake Tiilikka. Situated in both Rautavaara and Sotkamo, in the regions of North Savo and Kainuu, the park showcases a blend of southern and northern natural features.The park's landscape is dominated by low, narrow ridge capes covered in pine trees, formed over 10,000 years ago as the ice sheet melted. These eskers, created by meltwater tunnels, feature steep slopes and fragile vegetation, requiring visitors to stay on marked trails. Lake Tiilikka, a barren lake, is almost bisected by the Pohjoisniemi and Kalmoniemi eskers.Visitors can explore approximately 27 km of marked trails, including the popular 7 km Uiton kierto circular trail that loops around lakes Sammakkojärvi and Autiojärvi. The Aution kierto trail (3.4 km) offers an easier hike across mires with duckboards. Other trails include Haravapuron Polku Trail (2.5 km / 4.5 km) and Pumpulikirkon Reitti route (1.2 km one way).The park also features historical elements, such as the Täyssinä peace treaty border stone, dating back to 1595, and the Tiilikanautio farm, which was inhabited until the early 20th century. The park provides opportunities for hiking, skiing, canoeing, and snowshoeing. Camping and overnight stays are permitted only in designated areas.