The versatile trails of the Arctic Circle Hiking Area invite you to spend time outdoors, either for a few hours or an entire day.
Here you can cross the Arctic Circle and experience the wilds of Lapland just outside Rovaniemi, the home of Santa Claus. Stroll to the fine falls at Vaattunkiköngäs and Vikaköngäs. There are also accessible nature trails in the area. The river offers excellent fishing opportunities. Winter wanderers can explore the hiking area's forests and open marshes on skis or snowshoes.
- Rapids, aapa mires and old-growth forests
- Day trip trails for the whole family
- Accessible trails and services
- Lean-to shelters and campfire sites for resting
- Waters for lure fishing and paddling
Activities and trails
In Vikaköngäs recreational fishing area, the possibilities for lure fishing are excellent.
The Raudanjoki River, which flows through the Arctic Circle Hiking Area, offers a great setting for paddling.
What else is there to see
Bird watching, whitewater paddling, skiing, snowshoeing, mountain biking
Natural Features of Arctic Circle Hiking Area
The Arctic Circle Hiking Area is like a miniature wilderness. Here the lush river islands, roaring rapids, aapa mires and old-growth forests of Northern Finland are within easy reach.
Nature at the siteVisitor's checklist
Everyman’s Right apply in the hiking areaYou can hike and camp in the Arctic Circle Hiking Area under everyone’s rights.
Always keep pets on a leashDog droppings must be swept off the trails to the side. The Arctic Circle Hiking Area is used by reindeer herders; keep a sufficient distance to reindeer in order to avoid disturbing or scaring them.
Make campfires only in designated sitesBefore you light a fire, always check if any forest fire warnings are in effect. When a forest fire warning has been issued, you may not light fires at any campfire sites. The prohibition does not generally apply to the fireplaces in Niittypirtti open wilderness hut and Sortovaara hut, but lighting fires in these huts may also be prohibited if the situation so requires.
Remember to bring a trash bagThere are no waste bins along the trails. Bring your own rubbish bag and take your waste home when leaving. Recycling facilities can be found at the starting points of the trails in Vikaköngäs and Vaattunkiköngäs parking areas.