Finnish National Parks and Protected Natural Areas

Table of Contents

Finland’s 41 national parks offer some of the most spectacular and accessible nature experiences in Europe. From the pristine wilderness of Lapland to the serene lake landscapes of the south, these protected areas showcase the country’s remarkable natural diversity and commitment to conservation. The national parks cover a total area of 9,892 square kilometres (3,819 sq mi) – 2.7% of Finland’s total land area. These natural treasures provide not only critical habitat for wildlife but also exceptional opportunities for outdoor recreation, education, and connection with nature throughout the year.

The Finnish National Park System: A Comprehensive Overview

There are 41 national parks in Finland. They are all managed by Metsähallitus, Parks & Wildlife Finland. This extensive network of protected areas represents decades of conservation efforts and reflects Finland’s deep commitment to preserving its natural heritage for future generations. The newest of them is Salla National Park which was established on January 1st 2022. It is situated in eastern Lapland and covers over 9,900 hectares.

National parks are over 1,000-hectare protected areas, which are also natural sights open to everyone. Their primary purpose is to ensure the diversity of Finnish nature. The natural features and landscape in national parks are typical of Finland, but the parks are also a nationally and internationally valuable part of our nature. Within the parks there are national landscapes as well as cultural heritage sites.

Visitor Numbers and Growing Popularity

Finnish national parks have experienced significant growth in visitor numbers over recent years. A total of 3.2 million people visited the parks in 2018. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of national park visitors strongly increased, with a total of 4.0 million people visiting the parks in 2021. In 2024 the visitor numbers had fallen back to a level of 3.6 million. Finland’s national parks welcome over 3.6 million visitors annually – in a land of 5.6 million inhabitants. This remarkable statistic demonstrates the important role these protected areas play in Finnish culture and outdoor recreation.

Historical Development of Finland’s National Parks

The history of Finland’s national park system spans nearly a century of conservation efforts. A.E. Nordenskiöld, a Finnish-born scientist and explorer, proposed the idea of protected areas on state-owned lands. This idea sparked a national discussion about the need to conserve Finland’s natural heritage—not only as a precious resource for the future but also as a symbol of national identity and pride.

After much deliberation and navigating complex legal and political hurdles, Finland established its first national parks in 1938. The first statutory national parks, however, were not formed until 1938. These parks, established in state lands, were defined under the administration of the Finnish Forest Research Institute (Metla).

In 1956, seventeen national and nature parks were established in Metsähallitus’ lands. A second significant expansion to the conservation area network was carried out in 1982, when a total of 16 new national and nature parks were created. By 1982, the national park network had expanded considerably, with 11 new parks established. These included the famous Helvetinjärvi, Patvinsuo, and Oulanka National Parks, among others.

Metsähallitus: Guardian of Finland’s Natural Heritage

Parks & Wildlife Finland is a unit of Metsähallitus, which manages state-owned lands and waters all over Finland. The company administers some 120,000 square kilometres (46,000 sq mi) of state-owned land and water areas, which is about 35% of Finland’s total surface area. This makes Metsähallitus one of the largest land managers in Europe and a critical player in Finnish conservation efforts.

Organizational Structure and Responsibilities

Parks & Wildlife Finland is comprised of National Parks Finland and Wildlife Service Finland. Parks & Wildlife Finland is in charge of public administration services such as nature and cultural heritage protection and fishing and hunting permits. We also provide free facilities for hikers.

Metsähallitus’ public administration duties involve, among others, managing nature conservation and hiking areas, promoting conservation and recreational use of State lands and waters and controlling hunting and fishing rights. The Parks and Wildlife Services unit manages the nature reserves of almost the entire country, including all national parks, nature parks, state hiking areas, as well as the extensive wilderness areas of Lapland.

Funding and Operations

The services of Parks & Wildlife Finland are largely financed from the national government budget. Its funding comes from the state budget. The Finnish Parliament decides on the funding each year as it approves the state budget proposal. Income from fishing and hunting permits is used to manage hunting grounds and fishing waters.

The income from business operations cannot be used to finance public administration services. This separation ensures that conservation and public access remain priorities independent of commercial forestry activities conducted by other Metsähallitus units.

Diverse Landscapes Across Finland’s National Parks

From the sea-kissed shores of the Archipelago and serene lakes of Lakeland to the forest trails near Helsinki and the untamed fells of Lapland, each park showcases the country’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. With 41 parks across the country, each shaped by its own landscape and local culture, there’s something for everyone, from relaxed day hikers to seasoned wilderness adventurers.

Southern Finland: Accessible Nature Near Urban Centers

In the south, you’ll find easy-to-reach parks like Nuuksio and Sipoonkorpi, where quiet forests and lakes sit just a short trip from Helsinki. These parks provide crucial green spaces for Finland’s urban population, offering opportunities for day trips and outdoor recreation without extensive travel. Most national parks are accessible year-round.

The accessibility of southern parks makes them ideal for families, beginners, and those seeking a quick escape from city life. Well-maintained trails, clear signage, and visitor facilities ensure that even those new to outdoor activities can safely enjoy Finland’s natural beauty.

Lakeland Region: Water-Based Wilderness

Lakeland’s parks, such as Linnansaari and Kolovesi, are shaped by water. Here, the best way to explore is by canoe or kayak, gliding between forested islands, spotting ospreys, and perhaps even glimpsing the rare Saimaa ringed seal. The Lakeland region represents Finland’s iconic lake landscape, with thousands of interconnected waterways creating a unique aquatic wilderness.

These water-dominated parks offer a different kind of wilderness experience, where the rhythm of paddling and the gentle lapping of waves replace the sound of footsteps on forest trails. The combination of water, islands, and surrounding forests creates exceptional biodiversity and stunning scenic beauty.

Coastal and Archipelago Parks

On the west coast and in the archipelago, places like Bothnian Bay and Archipelago National Park combine sea and silence. Wind-swept skerries, fishing heritage, and lighthouses make for a truly coastal experience, where the horizon feels endless and the sea air clears your thoughts.

The archipelago parks showcase Finland’s extensive coastline and maritime heritage. These areas protect important coastal ecosystems while preserving traditional fishing communities and maritime culture. The interplay between land and sea creates unique habitats for seabirds, marine mammals, and specialized coastal plant communities.

Lapland: Untamed Northern Wilderness

Lapland, meanwhile, offers vast, untamed fells in parks like Pallas-Yllästunturi and Urho Kekkonen. These northern giants let you roam through tundra-like landscapes under the Midnight Sun – or in winter, snowshoe under the Northern Lights. Lapland’s national parks represent some of Europe’s last true wilderness areas, where visitors can experience solitude and nature on a grand scale.

National Parks in Finland are found in all parts of the country, the most northerly being Lemmenjoki National Park in Northern Lapland, the most southerly being the Ekenäs Archipelago in the Baltic Sea south-west of Helsinki, one of four National Parks located in Finland’s coastal waters.

Beyond National Parks: Finland’s Protected Area Network

While national parks form the cornerstone of Finland’s conservation efforts, they represent just one component of a comprehensive protected area system. Finland has established various categories of protected areas, each serving specific conservation and recreational purposes.

Strict Nature Reserves

The main purpose of strict nature reserves is to serve nature conservation and scientific research. Efforts are made to keep the natural environment as pristine as possible. The protection regulations are much stricter than those concerning national parks.

Most of the strict nature reserves are closed to the public. A written permit granted for scientific purposes only is required for access to strict nature reserves. However, in some strict nature reserves it is possible for the public to walk along marked trails or paths. These highly protected areas ensure that some ecosystems remain largely undisturbed by human activity, serving as baseline areas for scientific research and refuges for the most sensitive species.

Wilderness Areas

Finland’s wilderness areas, particularly in Lapland, represent vast tracts of land where natural processes dominate and human infrastructure is minimal. In strict nature reserves located in northern Finland the local residents may have rights to use these areas associated with reindeer husbandry or other nature-based livelihoods. This recognition of traditional land use rights reflects Finland’s commitment to balancing conservation with cultural heritage and sustainable livelihoods.

Hiking Areas and Nature Reserves

There are currently seven national hiking areas in the country. The first official hiking areas in accordance with Finland’s Outdoor Recreation Act were established in 1979 in Kylmäluoma and Hossa. These designated hiking areas provide structured recreational opportunities while protecting natural values.

Nature reserves complement national parks by protecting specific habitats, ecosystems, or species that may not meet the criteria for national park designation but nonetheless require protection. Together, these various protected area categories create a comprehensive conservation network across Finland.

Recreational Activities in Finnish National Parks

Whether you’re planning a day trip from Helsinki or a multi-day hiking adventure in the north, you’ll find pristine trails, quiet beauty, and a deep connection to nature — all year round, and always free to explore. Finnish national parks offer an exceptional range of activities for visitors of all ages and abilities.

Hiking and Trekking

The parks have marked hiking routes, nature trails and campfire sites. Hiking remains the most popular activity in Finnish national parks, with trails ranging from short accessible nature paths to multi-day wilderness treks. Well-maintained trail systems, clear signage, and regular maintenance ensure safe and enjoyable hiking experiences.

Trail infrastructure varies by park and region, with southern parks typically offering more developed facilities while northern wilderness parks provide more rugged, backcountry experiences. Many parks feature loop trails of varying lengths, allowing visitors to choose routes matching their fitness level and available time.

Wildlife Observation and Nature Study

This wide geographical range means that not only do visitors get to experience the wealth of differient landscapes in Finland, but they also get to experience the incredible diversity of Finnish wildlife and flora, from the snowy owls, lemmings, and wolverines of the north, to the bears and wolves of the east, and the incredible number of nesting birds in the archipelagos.

Finnish national parks provide exceptional opportunities for wildlife observation, from birdwatching in coastal areas to tracking large mammals in eastern forests. The parks serve as important refuges for many species, and patient observers can witness remarkable wildlife encounters. Visitors can also learn about nature and history at national parks.

Water-Based Activities

Finland’s National Parks are ideal for activities like hiking, cycling, boating, fishing, and birdwatching. In Lakeland and coastal parks, canoeing, kayaking, and boating provide the primary means of exploration. These water-based activities offer unique perspectives on Finland’s aquatic ecosystems and allow access to areas unreachable by foot.

Fishing is permitted in many parks, subject to national fishing regulations and permit requirements. The combination of pristine waters and healthy fish populations makes park waters attractive to anglers seeking both sport and sustenance.

Winter Activities

In winter, many of the same trails become routes for cross-country skiing. Finland’s long winters transform national parks into snowy wonderlands ideal for winter recreation. Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and winter camping allow visitors to experience the parks in their frozen splendor.

Winter visits offer unique rewards, including the possibility of witnessing the Northern Lights in Lapland parks, observing winter-adapted wildlife, and experiencing the profound silence of snow-covered forests. The contrast between summer and winter landscapes makes many parks worth visiting in multiple seasons.

Camping and Overnight Stays

Visitors can also stay overnight in the national parks at designated camping sites or shelters and huts. Campsites are available in many parks for those wishing to stay overnight. Overnight facilities range from basic wilderness camping areas to equipped shelters and rental cabins, accommodating various comfort preferences and experience levels.

In the 1970s Metsähallitus focused special attention on expanding the existing network of wilderness huts. This infrastructure development has made multi-day wilderness trips accessible to more visitors while maintaining the wild character of the parks.

Visitor Facilities and Services

Finnish national parks balance wilderness preservation with visitor accessibility through thoughtfully designed facilities and services. The goal is to enable safe, enjoyable visits while minimizing environmental impact.

Trail Infrastructure

Building up of the service offering for hikers, such as routes, lean-tos and campfire sites, began in 1978 according to the first management and utilisation plans. Modern trail systems include boardwalks across sensitive wetlands, bridges over streams, and carefully maintained paths that prevent erosion and vegetation damage.

Trail markers, information boards, and maps help visitors navigate safely while learning about the natural and cultural features they encounter. Many parks offer trails of varying difficulty, from wheelchair-accessible nature paths to challenging wilderness routes.

Visitor Centers and Information

Many national parks feature visitor centers that serve as gateways to the protected areas. These facilities provide orientation, educational exhibits, and practical information about trails, weather conditions, and safety considerations. Staff and volunteers offer expert advice and help visitors plan appropriate activities based on their interests and abilities.

Accessibility and Transportation

You can get to most National Parks environment-friendly by buses and trains. In the Archipelago and Coast Region, you may need a boat or a ferry ride to fully explore the area as the National Parks often extend to the isles. This accessibility by public transportation makes park visits feasible for those without private vehicles and reduces the environmental impact of park tourism.

Conservation and Biodiversity Protection

Finnish national parks serve critical conservation functions, protecting representative examples of the country’s ecosystems and providing habitat for numerous species, including many that are threatened or endangered.

Habitat Protection and Restoration

In the late 1980s, Metsähallitus Parks & Wildlife Finland carried out the first restoration measures in Finnish protected areas. We thus have over 30 years of experience of forest and mire restoration. Metsähallitus’ restoration and nature management measures were targeted at both protected areas and multiple-use forests across 10,430 hectares in total.

In addition to mire restoration, Metsähallitus invested in stream restoration and removal of barriers to fish migration. These active management efforts help restore degraded habitats and improve conditions for native species, demonstrating that conservation sometimes requires intervention rather than passive protection.

Species Monitoring and Protection

Metsähallitus, Parks & Wildlife Finland is responsible for species inventories and species monitoring in the conservation areas managed by it. Metsähallitus is nationally responsible for monitoring and protecting selected species that occur mainly in conservation areas or on state-owned land and waters. These include Golden eagle (Aquila chrysaëtos), Peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) and Gyrfalcon (Falco rusticolus) as well as the Arctic fox (Vulpes lagopus) and Saimaa ringed seal (Phoca hispida saimensis).

The Saimaa ringed seal deserves special mention as one of the world’s most endangered seal species, found only in Finland’s Lake Saimaa. National parks and protected areas in the Lakeland region play a crucial role in protecting this unique subspecies and its habitat.

Research and Monitoring Programs

It is important to have up-to-date and high-quality data on protected areas. In habitat type inventories, Metsähallitus collects data on vegetation types, Natura 2000 habitat types, living trees and dead wood, and needs for restoration and management measures. In 2025, Metsähallitus Parks & Wildlife Finland conducted a significantly higher number of species and habitat inventories and other surveys than before.

This systematic data collection supports evidence-based management decisions and allows tracking of long-term trends in ecosystem health and species populations. The information also contributes to national and international biodiversity assessments and reporting requirements.

Responsible Visiting: Everyman’s Right and Park Etiquette

Finland’s unique tradition of “Everyman’s Right” (jokamiehenoikeus) grants everyone the right to access nature, including national parks, regardless of land ownership. However, this freedom comes with responsibilities to respect nature and other visitors.

Understanding Everyman’s Right

If you wander in the forests in the summer and autumn seasons, feel free to pick berries and mushrooms! You are allowed to pick them free of charge – just make sure you get familiar with Everyman’s Right beforehand. This traditional right allows activities such as walking, cycling, skiing, berry and mushroom picking, and temporary camping in most natural areas.

However, Everyman’s Right also includes obligations: visitors must not disturb wildlife, damage vegetation, litter, or interfere with others’ enjoyment of nature. In national parks, additional regulations may apply to protect sensitive areas or species.

Leave No Trace Principles

Make every effort to preserve the wildlife. Show a good example by collecting your rubbish and the trash left by other hikers and taking it to an appropriate waste bin. Visitors are expected to pack out all waste, stay on designated trails in sensitive areas, and minimize their impact on the environment.

You can light your campfire only where it is allowed, and camping stoves should be used whenever possible. Fire safety is particularly important in Finnish forests, and regulations specify where and when fires are permitted. During dry periods, fire bans may be implemented to prevent forest fires.

Climate Change and Future Challenges

Like protected areas worldwide, Finnish national parks face emerging challenges that require adaptive management and continued conservation efforts.

Climate Change Impacts

Climate change, invasive species, and the pressures of modern tourism all pose threats to the delicate ecosystems these parks protect. Rising temperatures are already affecting Finnish ecosystems, with changes in snow cover duration, growing season length, and species distributions. Northern parks may see particularly dramatic changes as Arctic and subarctic ecosystems respond to warming.

Climate change also affects visitor experiences and park management, with implications for winter recreation, wildlife viewing opportunities, and infrastructure maintenance. Adaptive management strategies must account for these ongoing changes while maintaining core conservation values.

Balancing Access and Protection

The increasing popularity of national parks presents both opportunities and challenges. While greater public engagement with nature supports conservation awareness and funding, high visitor numbers can stress ecosystems and infrastructure. Park managers must balance accessibility with protection, ensuring that parks remain both welcoming and wild.

Sustainable tourism practices, visitor education, and strategic infrastructure development help manage these pressures. Some parks implement visitor quotas or seasonal restrictions in particularly sensitive areas to prevent overuse.

International Commitments and Biodiversity Goals

Metsähallitus also supports the fulfilment of international biodiversity commitments. “We made proposals for biodiversity-supporting OECM sites on state-owned lands amounting to 1.3 million hectares, and for 49,000 hectares of new marine protected areas. Finland’s protected area network contributes to international conservation goals, including commitments under the Convention on Biological Diversity and European Union nature directives.

Planning Your Visit to Finnish National Parks

With 41 national parks spread across the country, planning a visit requires consideration of location, season, activities, and personal interests. Resources are available to help visitors make informed choices and prepare appropriately.

Choosing the Right Park

Consider what type of landscape and experience you seek. Southern parks offer easier access and more developed facilities, ideal for families and day trips. Lakeland parks provide water-based adventures and opportunities to see unique species like the Saimaa ringed seal. Coastal and archipelago parks combine maritime heritage with natural beauty. Lapland parks offer vast wilderness and the possibility of experiencing the Midnight Sun or Northern Lights.

Research individual parks to understand their specific features, trail systems, and facilities. Some parks are better suited to particular activities or seasons, and advance planning ensures a rewarding visit.

Seasonal Considerations

Each season offers distinct experiences in Finnish national parks. Summer provides long daylight hours, warm weather, and access to all trails and facilities. Autumn brings spectacular fall colors and berry picking opportunities. Winter transforms parks into snowy wonderlands ideal for skiing and snowshoeing. Spring, though brief, features returning migratory birds and awakening nature.

Consider weather conditions, daylight hours, and seasonal closures when planning your visit. Some facilities and services may be unavailable during off-season periods, particularly in remote northern parks.

Essential Preparation and Safety

Proper preparation enhances safety and enjoyment. Check weather forecasts, inform someone of your plans, and carry appropriate clothing, food, water, and navigation tools. Even on short hikes, conditions can change rapidly, particularly in northern and mountainous areas.

Familiarize yourself with park regulations, trail conditions, and any special considerations such as wildlife activity or seasonal restrictions. Visitor centers and park websites provide current information and safety advice.

The Cultural Significance of Finnish National Parks

Finland’s national parks are not just breathtakingly beautiful landscapes—they are a testament to the country’s deep-rooted commitment to preserving nature, maintaining biodiversity, and providing spaces for recreation and reflection. These protected areas represent more than conservation achievements; they embody Finnish values and cultural identity.

Nature and National Identity

Finland’s relationship with nature runs deep, shaped by geography, history, and cultural traditions. The vast forests, countless lakes, and northern wilderness have influenced Finnish literature, art, music, and national character. National parks preserve these landscapes that define Finnish identity and provide spaces where people can connect with their natural heritage.

The concept of “sisu”—a Finnish term encompassing determination, resilience, and courage—finds expression in wilderness experiences. Multi-day treks through remote parks, winter camping under the Northern Lights, and solitary communion with nature reflect and reinforce cultural values.

Health and Wellbeing Benefits

Finnish researchers and conservationists argue that time spent in nature not only preserves biodiversity but also enhances human health. Whether it’s a peaceful walk along a lake or an immersive wilderness experience in the heart of the forests, the parks offer respite and healing, especially in today’s fast-paced world.

Research increasingly demonstrates the physical and mental health benefits of time in nature, from reduced stress and improved mood to enhanced physical fitness and immune function. Finnish national parks provide accessible opportunities for these health-promoting nature experiences, contributing to public wellbeing alongside their conservation functions.

Economic and Social Benefits

Beyond their intrinsic ecological and cultural value, Finnish national parks generate significant economic and social benefits for local communities and the nation as a whole.

Nature Tourism and Local Economies

National parks attract both domestic and international visitors, supporting tourism-related businesses including accommodations, restaurants, guide services, and equipment rentals. In rural areas, particularly in Lapland, park-based tourism provides important employment and economic opportunities.

Sustainable nature tourism allows communities to benefit economically from protected areas while maintaining conservation values. This creates incentives for local support of conservation and demonstrates that protected areas can contribute to regional development.

Education and Research Opportunities

National parks serve as outdoor classrooms and research laboratories. School groups, university students, and researchers use parks for environmental education, scientific studies, and long-term monitoring programs. These educational functions build environmental awareness and scientific knowledge while fostering the next generation of conservation advocates.

The relatively undisturbed ecosystems in national parks provide baseline conditions for studying natural processes and assessing environmental changes. Long-term research in parks contributes to understanding climate change impacts, ecosystem dynamics, and species ecology.

Looking Forward: The Future of Finnish National Parks

As Finland moves forward, its national park system continues to evolve, responding to new challenges and opportunities while maintaining core conservation and recreational missions.

Expanding the Protected Area Network

While Finland has achieved significant conservation success, opportunities remain to expand and enhance the protected area network. Identifying gaps in ecosystem representation, protecting additional marine areas, and establishing ecological corridors between protected areas can strengthen the overall conservation system.

Inventories of primary and old-growth forests on state-owned land will continue in 2026, and we will also prepare our own biodiversity programme. These ongoing efforts demonstrate commitment to continuous improvement in conservation effectiveness.

Enhancing Visitor Experiences

Balancing increased visitation with conservation requires ongoing attention to infrastructure, visitor management, and education. Digital tools, improved information systems, and enhanced facilities can improve visitor experiences while promoting responsible behavior and reducing environmental impacts.

Ensuring accessibility for diverse visitors, including those with disabilities, families with young children, and international tourists, expands opportunities for people to connect with nature and builds broad support for conservation.

Collaborative Conservation

We work with various partners on projects where the public funding is used to leverage wider funding and benefits. Effective conservation increasingly requires collaboration among government agencies, research institutions, non-governmental organizations, local communities, and private landowners.

International cooperation also plays a role, as many conservation challenges transcend national boundaries. Sharing knowledge, coordinating management of migratory species, and addressing transboundary issues like climate change require collaborative approaches.

Resources for Exploring Finnish National Parks

Numerous resources help visitors plan and enjoy national park experiences while learning about conservation efforts and natural history.

Official Information Sources

The primary source for current information about Finnish national parks is the Luontoon.fi website, maintained by Metsähallitus Parks & Wildlife Finland. This comprehensive resource provides detailed information about each park, including trail maps, facilities, current conditions, and safety information.

Visit Finland, the official tourism website, offers additional resources for planning park visits as part of broader travel in Finland, including accommodation options, transportation information, and suggested itineraries.

Visitor Centers and Local Information

Many parks feature visitor centers staffed by knowledgeable personnel who can provide current conditions, trail recommendations, and answers to specific questions. These centers often include exhibits about local natural and cultural history, enhancing understanding and appreciation of the parks.

Local tourism offices in communities near national parks can provide additional information about accommodations, services, and regional attractions that complement park visits.

Guided Tours and Programs

For those seeking deeper engagement or specialized experiences, numerous guide services and tour operators offer programs in Finnish national parks. Options range from day hikes with naturalist guides to multi-day wilderness expeditions, wildlife watching tours, and photography workshops.

Guided experiences can enhance safety, provide expert interpretation, and enable access to areas or activities that might be challenging for independent visitors. Many parks also offer ranger-led programs during peak seasons.

Conclusion: A Natural Legacy Worth Protecting

Finland’s 41 national parks represent a remarkable conservation achievement and a precious natural legacy. From the accessible forests near Helsinki to the remote wilderness of Lapland, these protected areas preserve the diverse ecosystems, landscapes, and species that define Finnish nature. They provide opportunities for recreation, education, research, and spiritual renewal while safeguarding biodiversity and natural processes.

The success of Finland’s national park system reflects decades of commitment from conservationists, policymakers, land managers, and the Finnish people. As challenges evolve—from climate change to increasing visitor numbers—continued dedication and adaptive management will ensure these natural treasures endure for future generations.

Whether you’re a Finnish resident seeking weekend adventure or an international visitor exploring Nordic nature, the national parks offer welcoming spaces to experience wilderness, observe wildlife, and connect with the natural world. Each visit contributes to personal wellbeing while supporting the broader conservation mission that keeps these landscapes wild and wonderful.

The story of Finnish national parks continues to unfold, shaped by ongoing conservation efforts, scientific research, and the experiences of millions of visitors who find inspiration, challenge, and peace in these protected landscapes. By visiting responsibly, supporting conservation initiatives, and sharing appreciation for wild places, we all play a role in ensuring that Finland’s national parks remain vibrant, accessible, and ecologically healthy for generations to come.