Salla National Park Travel Guide

Salla National Park, inaugurated in 2022, encompasses 99.83 square kilometers of Finland's eastern Lapland. This park showcases a diverse landscape sculpted by glacial activity, featuring ancient forests, expansive mires, and prominent fells offering views stretching into Russia.The park's history extends back to prehistoric times, with evidence of early human settlements along its waterways. The area was also heavily impacted during the Winter and Continuation Wars of the 20th century. Today, Salla National Park serves as a sanctuary for various plant and animal species, including the emblem species, the capercaillie. Hiking trails wind through the park, providing access to natural landmarks and panoramic viewpoints.Visitors can explore several marked trails, including the popular Pahakuru Trail, which loops around the Sallatunturi fells and passes through the steep Pahanojankuru gorge. The Kaunisharju Trail offers a less challenging route through old-growth forests and past the Arctic Phenomena Observation Point. The Salla Visitor Centre, located in Salla Wilderness Park, provides information about the park's natural and cultural history, as well as tips for hiking and exploring the area.