Koli National Park

Koli Overview

Koli National Park (Kolin kansallispuisto), located in eastern Finland in the North Karelia region, covers an area of approximately 12 square miles (30 square kilometers). This national park is situated near the western shore of Lake Pielinen and is known for its breathtaking landscapes, rolling hills, and stunning panoramic views that have inspired Finnish art and folklore for generations.

The park’s most famous feature is Ukko-Koli, the highest peak in the region, standing at 1,138 feet (347 meters) above sea level. From its summit, visitors can take in an awe-inspiring view of Lake Pielinen’s vast waters, dotted with islands and bordered by dense forests.

The terrain of Koli National Park is defined by its ancient bedrock, shaped over millennia by glacial activity. The landscape features rugged cliffs, deep forests, and serene meadows. Birch and pine forests dominate the park, interspersed with spruce trees and open heathlands.

In summer, the slopes are covered in wildflowers, while autumn transforms the park into a vibrant spectacle of red, orange, and yellow hues. The park’s old-growth forests provide a glimpse into Finland’s untouched natural heritage, with some areas showing signs of traditional slash-and-burn agriculture once practiced by early settlers.

Koli National Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife. The park’s forests shelter large mammals such as elk, lynx, and brown bears, though sightings of these elusive creatures are rare. More commonly seen are red foxes, mountain hares, and various small rodents.

Birdwatchers can enjoy the presence of species such as the black woodpecker, Eurasian eagle-owl, and western capercaillie, while the lake and wetland areas attract ospreys and whooper swans. During the summer months, the park’s meadows and forests come alive with butterflies, dragonflies, and other pollinators, adding to the rich biodiversity.

One of Koli National Park’s most popular attractions is its breathtaking viewpoints. The panoramic vistas from Ukko-Koli, Akka-Koli, and Paha-Koli are among the most photographed landscapes in Finland. These high vantage points offer spectacular views of Lake Pielinen, especially during sunrise and sunset when the sky is painted in warm hues.

The park also features cultural sites such as old farmsteads and re-created traditional meadows that highlight the region’s agricultural history. In the winter, Koli transforms into a snow-covered wonderland, attracting cross-country skiers and snowshoers who traverse its well-maintained trails.

Visitors can engage with Koli National Park in a variety of ways. Hiking is a major draw, with trails ranging from short scenic walks to longer treks that take visitors deep into the wilderness. The popular Herajärvi Trail, a multi-day hiking route, provides an immersive experience through the park’s forests and hills.

In the summer, Lake Pielinen offers opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing, while the park’s slopes become a playground for skiers and snowboarders in the winter. Guided nature tours, including photography workshops and wildlife tracking, allow visitors to gain a deeper appreciation of the park’s unique ecosystem.

Koli National Park has faced conservation challenges over the years, including balancing tourism with the need to protect its fragile ecosystems. However, Finland’s strict environmental regulations and park management strategies have helped preserve its natural beauty.

The park is part of the European Natura 2000 network, which ensures the protection of its habitats and species. Ongoing efforts include reforestation projects, the maintenance of traditional meadows to support biodiversity, and sustainable tourism initiatives that encourage eco-friendly practices among visitors. Thanks to these efforts, Koli National Park continues to be a pristine sanctuary where nature and culture intertwine harmoniously.

Park Map

Koli National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Birds

Koli National Park is also home to an impressive array of bird species, making it a prime location for birdwatching. From majestic raptors to colorful songbirds, the park’s avian life thrives in its forests, wetlands, and cliffs.

Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos)
This powerful bird of prey soars over Koli’s hills, scanning for hares and small mammals. Golden eagles are rare but can be spotted in the park’s remote areas.

Osprey (Pandion haliaetus)
A skilled fish hunter, the osprey nests near the park’s lakes and rivers. It plunges into the water to catch fish with its sharp talons.

Eurasian Eagle-Owl (Bubo bubo)
One of the largest owls in the world, the Eurasian eagle-owl has striking orange eyes and powerful talons. It preys on small mammals and birds.

Black Woodpecker (Dryocopus martius)
The largest woodpecker in Europe, this bird has glossy black feathers and a bright red crown. It is often heard drumming on trees as it searches for insects.

Western Capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus)
This large, forest-dwelling grouse is known for its elaborate courtship displays. Males perform dramatic calls and wing-flapping to attract mates.

Common Crane (Grus grus)
A graceful and tall bird, the common crane migrates through Koli National Park and can be seen in wetlands, where it performs intricate mating dances.

Whooper Swan (Cygnus cygnus)
Finland’s national bird, the whooper swan, graces the park’s lakes with its elegant white feathers and loud, trumpet-like calls.

Eurasian Three-toed Woodpecker (Picoides tridactylus)
A specialist of old-growth forests, this woodpecker peels bark from trees in search of insects, contributing to forest health.

Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis)
A fierce and agile predator, the northern goshawk hunts through Koli’s dense forests, preying on birds and small mammals.

Bohemian Waxwing (Bombycilla garrulus)
These striking birds with soft brown plumage and red-tipped wing feathers feast on berries in Koli’s forests, especially in winter.

Koli National Park offers a remarkable variety of wildlife, from majestic mammals to rare and beautiful birds, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Koli National Park, located in eastern Finland, is known for its breathtaking landscapes, rugged hills, and expansive forests. This park is a haven for wildlife, offering a rich diversity of species that thrive in its boreal environment. From large mammals to elusive predators, the park’s fauna is well adapted to the region’s changing seasons.

Brown Bear
The brown bear, Finland’s largest predator, roams the deep forests of Koli National Park. These solitary animals are most active at dawn and dusk, foraging for berries, fish, and small mammals. While sightings are rare due to their shy nature, their presence is felt through tracks and markings.

Eurasian Lynx
This elusive feline is Finland’s only wild cat species. The Eurasian lynx is a master of stealth, hunting hares, birds, and small deer in the dense woodlands. Recognizable by its tufted ears and thick coat, it is most active during twilight hours.

Wolverine
A rare and powerful carnivore, the wolverine is known for its incredible strength and endurance. It thrives in the park’s remote and rugged terrain, feeding on carrion and small mammals. Although difficult to spot, the wolverine plays a crucial role in the ecosystem.

Moose
The largest member of the deer family in Europe, the moose is a common sight in Koli National Park. These towering herbivores graze on aquatic plants, leaves, and twigs, often seen near wetlands and open meadows.

Red Fox
Adaptable and cunning, the red fox is one of the park’s most common mammals. It preys on small rodents, birds, and berries, often spotted at dawn or dusk. Its thick fur changes with the seasons, providing camouflage against the snowy landscape.

Raccoon Dog
This unique canid, resembling a small raccoon, is native to East Asia but has established itself in Finland. It is primarily nocturnal, foraging for fruits, insects, and small animals. Unlike true raccoons, raccoon dogs do not climb trees but rely on their keen sense of smell for hunting.

European Otter
A skilled swimmer and playful predator, the European otter thrives in Koli’s lakes and rivers. It feeds on fish and amphibians, using its streamlined body to navigate the cold waters efficiently. Otters are often spotted near the park’s waterways at dawn or dusk.

Western Capercaillie (male species description)
This large forest grouse is notable for its striking appearance and elaborate courtship displays. Males have dark plumage, a fan-like tail, and a distinctive white patch on their wings. These birds inhabit old-growth forests, feeding on pine needles, berries, and insects.

Adder
The only venomous snake in Finland, the adder is commonly found basking in sunny clearings within Koli National Park. It preys on small mammals and amphibians, using venom to subdue its prey. Despite its reputation, it is not aggressive and avoids human encounters.

Mountain Hare
This agile and resilient hare changes color with the seasons, sporting a white coat in winter and a brownish-gray one in summer. It is an important prey species for many of the park’s predators, including lynxes and foxes.