Urho Kekkonen National Park

Urho Kekkonen National Park was established in 1983, is named after the former Finnish president and covers 2,550 km² in northern Lapland. It stretches from the area around the ski resort of Saariselkä eastwards to the Russian border. The marked trails in the western part are considered easy even for inexperienced walkers, while the backcountry offers long, demanding routes. The highest fell in the park is Sokosti; Kiilopää and, in the border zone, Korvatunturi also lie here.

The marked network around Saariselkä, Kiilopää and Kakslauttanen (about 200 km) is suited to day trips; in the backcountry, wilderness huts stand roughly a day's walk apart. Away from the trails you need wilderness and navigation skills; before setting out, ask the park authority about the rules in the park. Allow a day for a fell hike from Saariselkä, ideally in late summer or during the autumn colours. The weather can change quickly, so layered clothing is advisable.