Overview
Urho Kekkonen National Park is a vast and untouched wilderness in northern Finland, offering stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and numerous outdoor activities. It's a haven for hikers, skiers, and nature enthusiasts.
It's one of the largest and most pristine national parks in Finland, named after the former Finnish president Urho Kekkonen, known for his love of nature.
Location
Address
Coordinates: 68.16674648267191, 28.250000098181232
Neighborhood: Urho Kekkonen National Park
Coordinates
68.166746, 28.250000
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
June-September
Best Time of Day
Early morning
better wildlife sightings, peaceful atmosphere
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Cold to mild
- • Snow melting
- • Wildlife active
summer
Warm to mild
- • Midnight sun
- • All trails open
autumn
Cool to cold
- • Fall colors
- • Fewer crowds
winter
Very cold to extreme cold
- • Northern lights
- • Snow activities
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Check weather conditions
- Prepare for remote wilderness
- Inform someone of your plans
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate to high (depending on activity)
- • Hypothermia
- • Frostbite
- • Dehydration
- • Wildlife encounters
Medical facilities: Limited (nearest hospital is far away)
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit cards (where available)
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Layered clothing suitable for extreme cold and sudden weather changes, Moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, waterproof outer layers, warm hat, gloves, scarf, Waterproof, insulated hiking boots with good traction, Inappropriate footwear (sandals, flip-flops), Cotton clothing
Booking Tips
- • At least 3 months in advance for summer
- • Official national park website or Visit Finland
- • Varies by accommodation, usually 24-48 hours
- • Book guided tours in advance
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Urho Kekkonen National Park Official App
Size: 100 MB
Features: Interactive map, Trail conditions, Wildlife sightings, Park news, Emergency contacts
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor centers (limited)
Charging Stations: Limited (only at main visitor centers)
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Ivalo Airport (IVL)
Distance: Approximately 100 km
Travel Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
From City Center
Distance: Varies by city (e.g., Rovaniemi is approximately 250 km away)
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Pristine wilderness, rich in cultural history and Sami heritage
Historical Significance: Named after Urho Kekkonen, former Finnish president and nature enthusiast
Insider Tips
- The best Northern Lights viewing is often away from the main visitor areas
- Some local guides offer unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences
- The park is home to a variety of Arctic wildlife, including reindeer, wolves, and bears
Local Recommendations
- • Try local reindeer dishes at a wilderness lodge
- • Ask rangers for up-to-date wildlife sightings and trail conditions
- • Visit the nearby Kevo Canyon for its unique geological features
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Finnish, English, Sami, Other European languages
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Kevo Canyon
Best Time: Midnight sun (summer) or sunrise/sunset (winter)
Tips: Wide-angle shots for the canyon, drone shots (if permitted)
Result: Stunning landscapes, dramatic lighting
Nordic Tree Line
Best Time: Summer (midnight sun) or autumn (fall colors)
Tips: Close-ups of the unique vegetation, panoramic shots
Result: Unique plant life, expansive views
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Kevo Canyon
Distance: Approximately 50 km
Walking: Not walkable, requires driving or guided tour
Type: Geological formation
Saariselkä Ski Resort
Distance: Approximately 20 km
Walking: Not walkable, requires driving
Type: Ski resort
Ivalo River
Distance: Varies by location within the park
Walking: Varies by trail
Type: River
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Bring warm layers, even in summer"
- "Download offline maps, as cell service is unreliable"
- "Book accommodations well in advance during peak season"
- "Visit the visitor center for up-to-date information and advice"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (3)
Quick Info
Available Tours
3
Rating
4.8 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
Free (some parking fees may apply)