Things to do in Urho Kekkonen National Park
Discover the best attractions and experiences Urho Kekkonen National Park has to offer
Historic Monuments
Urho Kekkonen National Park is primarily a natural wilderness area, with few man-made monuments. The focus here is on landscapes and outdoor experiences.
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We're currently working on adding historic monuments recommendations for Urho Kekkonen National Park. Check back soon for curated suggestions in this category.
Museums
To learn about the region’s culture and Arctic life, visit nearby museums and cultural centers when you’re in the area.
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We're currently working on adding museums recommendations for Urho Kekkonen National Park. Check back soon for curated suggestions in this category.
Religious Monuments
Religious monuments are not a central feature of the park, which is focused on natural landscapes. Nearby towns offer local church sites and cultural spaces.
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We're currently working on adding religious monuments recommendations for Urho Kekkonen National Park. Check back soon for curated suggestions in this category.
National & Theme Parks
Finland’s vast wilderness areas are a highlight of Lapland, with Urho Kekkonen National Park at the heart of backcountry adventures.
Urho Kekkonen National Park
Finland's second-largest national park, offering expansive taiga forests, fells and tundra for multi-day treks.
Riisitunturi National Park
A dramatic wilderness area known for its rolling fells, mires and striking winter scenery.
Neighborhoods
Use these nearby towns and settlements as bases for access to trails, services and cultural experiences around the park.
Saariselkä
A gateway village to Urho Kekkonen NP with trails, lodges and Nordic leisure in a cosy Lapland setting.
Inari
A Sámi-influenced town offering cultural experiences, shops and services for park visitors.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy natural experiences that don’t require a guide or paid activities.
Hike on Urho Kekkonen NP marked trails
Explore forest and tundra on well-marked paths suitable for different skill levels.
Wildlife watching in the Arctic wilderness
Keep an eye out for reindeer, birds and small Arctic mammals in their natural habitats.
Stargazing and northern lights viewing
Catch clear skies for starry nights or aurora displays away from city lights.
Winter photography walks
Capture pristine snowscapes and unique Arctic light on easy to moderate routes.
Gastronomy
Taste traditional Lapland flavors and simple Nordic fare influenced by reindeer, berries and local fish.
Reindeer dishes and Arctic berries
Sample traditional Lapland fare featuring reindeer meat and cloudberries.
Local rye bread with smoked salmon
Enjoy hearty Finnish staples paired with fresh Nordic flavors.
Lappish coffee culture
Warm up with strong coffee and classic pastries after a cold day outdoors.
Nightlife
Evenings bring aurora hunts, cozy lodges and light night-time activities in the Lapland wilderness.
Northern Lights hunting tour
Join a guided outing to chase the aurora across dark, open skies.
Snowmobile night ride
Experience the thrill of night-time snowmobile travel under starry skies.
Evening resort entertainment
Relax with small-scale performances, music or storytelling at nearby lodges.
Entertainment
Cultural and family-friendly experiences nearby add flavor to your wilderness trip.
Reindeer farm visit
Learn about Sámi traditions and meet friendly reindeer up close.
Sámi culture experiences
Explore traditional music, crafts and storytelling in the Lapland region.
Sports
Seasonal outdoor sports are a staple, from winter activities to scenic runs.
Cross-country skiing on park trails
Glide along groomed tracks through spruce forests and open terrain.
Snowshoeing
Trek lightweight snowshoe routes to see winter wildlife and quiet landscapes.
Snowmobile safaris
Explore broader backcountry routes with a guided snowmobile tour.
Winter photography tours
Join a photo-focused trip to capture light, frost and vast Arctic scenery.
Off the Track
For those seeking solitude, there are backcountry routes and wilderness experiences.
Backcountry hiking to remote viewpoints
Escape crowds and find panoramic vantage points on longer trails.
Overnight wilderness camping
Camp in the Arctic wilderness with proper gear and safety practice.
Aurora photography from secluded spots
Set up away from lights to capture dramatic aurora images.