Lemmenjoki National Park

Lemmenjoki Overview

Lemmenjoki National Park (Lemmenjoen kansallispuisto) is the largest national park in Finland, covering an impressive 1,100 square miles (2,850 square kilometers) in the northern region of Lapland. It is located near the municipalities of Inari and Kittilä, bordering Norway.

Established in 1956, this vast wilderness area is one of the most remote and untouched regions in Europe, offering breathtaking landscapes of dense boreal forests, rugged fells, and the winding Lemmenjoki River, which cuts through the heart of the park. The park derives its name from this river, which has long been a significant route for the indigenous Sámi people, who continue to maintain their traditional reindeer herding practices in the area.

Lemmenjoki National Park is characterized by its diverse and dramatic terrain. The park is dominated by expansive pine forests, deep ravines, and treeless fells, with elevations rising to peaks like Joenkielinen Fell, which offers panoramic views over the park. The Lemmenjoki River, stretching approximately 80 miles (120 kilometers), is one of the defining features of the park, carving through the pristine wilderness and forming picturesque valleys.

Waterfalls such as Ravadasköngäs add to the park’s stunning scenery, providing breathtaking sights for visitors. The changing seasons create a dynamic landscape—summers bring a lush, green tundra, while winters transform the park into a frozen wonderland illuminated by the northern lights.

The park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering opportunities to witness some of Finland’s most iconic species. Large predators such as brown bears, wolverines, and lynx roam the park, though they are elusive and rarely seen. More commonly encountered are moose, reindeer, and red foxes.

The park is also home to a variety of bird species, including golden eagles, Siberian jays, and whooper swans. Birdwatchers often visit in the summer months when migratory birds arrive to breed in the park’s wetlands and forests.

A major draw for visitors is Lemmenjoki’s association with gold prospecting. Since the late 19th century, the park has been the site of gold mining, with prospectors still searching for gold along the riverbanks today. The historic gold panning culture adds a unique aspect to the park’s identity, and visitors can explore the legacy of gold mining through guided tours or even try panning for gold themselves.

Other popular activities include hiking along well-maintained trails, taking boat trips along the Lemmenjoki River, and enjoying the park’s wilderness huts, which provide shelter for trekkers. The park is also an excellent place to experience the midnight sun in summer and the aurora borealis in winter.

Conservation efforts in Lemmenjoki National Park focus on preserving its unique ecosystems while balancing traditional land uses such as reindeer herding and gold mining. Strict environmental regulations ensure that these activities do not significantly impact the park’s natural environment.

The park’s management prioritizes sustainable tourism, maintaining trails and facilities to minimize human impact while providing opportunities for visitors to connect with nature. Lemmenjoki’s vast and pristine landscapes make it one of Finland’s most treasured national parks, offering solitude, adventure, and a glimpse into Lapland’s rich cultural heritage.

Park Map

Lemmenjoki National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Birds

Lemmenjoki National Park is also home to a diverse range of bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers. From large birds of prey to small songbirds, the park offers an incredible variety of avian life.

Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos)
One of Finland’s most majestic birds, the golden eagle soars over the park’s vast wilderness, preying on hares and other small mammals.

White-tailed Eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla)
As one of Europe’s largest birds of prey, the white-tailed eagle can be spotted near lakes and rivers, where it hunts fish and waterfowl.

Gyrfalcon (Falco rusticolus)
This powerful Arctic falcon is a skilled hunter, known for its speed and agility in catching prey such as ptarmigans and small rodents.

Northern Hawk Owl (Surnia ulula)
Unlike most owls, the northern hawk owl is active during the day, often perched in tall trees scanning for prey.

Great Gray Owl (Strix nebulosa)
This large and ghostly owl is a master of silent flight, hunting rodents in the twilight hours of the park’s boreal forests.

Eurasian Eagle-Owl (Bubo bubo)
One of the largest owls in the world, this powerful nocturnal predator preys on rabbits, grouse, and even smaller birds of prey.

Black-throated Loon (Gavia arctica)
These striking waterbirds inhabit the park’s lakes, their eerie calls echoing across the wilderness during summer nights.

Common Raven (Corvus corax)
Highly intelligent and adaptable, ravens are seen across the park, often scavenging or playing in the wind currents.

Siberian Jay (Perisoreus infaustus)
This friendly and curious bird is often spotted near campsites, known for its fearless approach to humans in search of food.

Willow Ptarmigan (Lagopus lagopus)
Perfectly camouflaged in both summer and winter, the willow ptarmigan changes its plumage with the seasons to blend into the Arctic landscape.

Lemmenjoki National Park, located in Finnish Lapland, is the largest national park in Finland and one of the most remote wilderness areas in Europe. The park is named after the Lemmenjoki River, which runs through vast forests, rolling hills, and open fells. It is home to an impressive variety of wildlife, including some of the most iconic species of the Arctic region.

Brown Bear (Ursus arctos)
As the largest predator in Finland, the brown bear roams the forests and valleys of Lemmenjoki. Although elusive, their presence is felt through tracks and markings on trees.

Wolverine (Gulo gulo)
This rare and powerful carnivore is one of the most secretive species in the park. With incredible endurance, wolverines cover vast distances in search of food.

Gray Wolf (Canis lupus)
Wolves inhabit the remote areas of the park, moving in packs and hunting reindeer, moose, and smaller prey. Their haunting howls add to the mystique of the wilderness.

Eurasian Lynx (Lynx lynx)
The lynx is a stealthy predator that thrives in the dense forests of Lemmenjoki. It hunts rabbits, birds, and even small deer, but is rarely seen due to its nocturnal habits.

Moose (Alces alces)
The largest land animal in Finland, moose are common in the park, especially near waterways and marshes. Their imposing size and antlers make them a striking sight.

Reindeer (Rangifer tarandus)
Reindeer are an essential part of the Sami culture and can be seen grazing throughout the park. Unlike other deer species, both males and females grow antlers.

Arctic Fox (Vulpes lagopus)
Though rare in Finland, the Arctic fox occasionally wanders through Lemmenjoki, especially in winter. It is well adapted to the harsh cold with its thick fur.

European Beaver (Castor fiber)
Beavers play a crucial role in shaping the waterways of the park. They build lodges and dams that create rich wetland habitats for many species.

European Otter (Lutra lutra)
These playful and agile swimmers inhabit the park’s rivers and lakes. They rely on clean waters and abundant fish populations to survive.

Mountain Hare (Lepus timidus)
Changing from brown in summer to white in winter, the mountain hare is well adapted to the Arctic conditions. It is an important prey species for many predators in the park.