Wilderness areas of Lapland - far from everything 

The twelve wilderness areas in Finland are located in the northern and eastern parts of Lapland. They are large uninhabited and roadless areas. The idea is to keep them in near-pristine condition as areas suitable for recreation and traditional natural livelihoods, such as hunting, fishing and reindeer husbandry.

Unlike national parks, wilderness areas have few campsites or marked trails for hikers. In these areas you can walk your own paths for days without meeting other hikers and enjoy the silence of the wilderness and the peace and quiet of nature. 

The wilderness areas in Lapland are managed by Metsähallitus. Their total surface area is almost 15,000 km2. The wilderness areas were established under the Wilderness Act in 1991. The purpose of the Act is to preserve the wilderness nature of these areas, to safeguard the Sámi culture and natural livelihoods, and to develop the diverse use of nature. Everyone's rights apply in the wilderness areas. 

Each of the wilderness areas have their unique features. Some may mainly consist of wide and treeless uplands, while others are mosaics of small lakes and rocky terrain. It is advisable to familiarise yourself carefully with the area when planning your excursion.  

Wilderness areas are challenging hiking destinations that you should not underestimate. As huts and marked trails are few and far between, good hiking skills are required if heading out to them. Before planning a hike in remote wilderness areas, you need to have a good grasp of navigation, camping and cooking outdoors as well as preparing for the season and conditions.