Hiking services in the Arctic Circle Hiking Area
The trails in the Arctic Circle Hiking Area have many marked and maintained rest spots with campfire facilities: several lean-to shelters, a campfire hut, and a day-use hut. Toilets are available at rest spots. Hiking in the area is litter-free, and there are no waste bins in the terrain.
Campsites
- As campsites are shared resting places, you should show consideration towards other hikers.
- Fires are only permitted at maintained and marked campfire sites, using wood provided in the wood shed.
- You may need to chop the wood into smaller pieces using the tools available in the shed. Smaller logs ignite and burn more efficiently. Use firewood sparingly.
- Always check the current wildfire warning before making a fire. During a wildfire warning, lighting any campfires is forbidden.
- Do not burn rubbish or tear off bark from live trees. Small amounts of clean paper and cardboard can be used as kindling.
- The last person to leave the campfire site is always responsible for putting out the fire.
- Further instructions for lighting fires
Drinking water
- The Arctic Circle Hiking Area has few natural water sources, such as springs. The quality of natural water is not tested. Boiling natural water for at least 5 minutes is recommended before use as drinking water.
- Do not wash dishes or bathe directly in natural waters.
- After use, remember to soak any washing water into the ground far enough away from natural waters or water supply points.
Toilets
- Some toilets are traditional dry toilets, while others are toilets emptied with suction. The type of toilet is indicated on a sign at the toilet.
- Bring your own toilet paper.
- Do not dispose of waste in toilets. This includes wet wipes, sanitary products, and diapers, which must be carried out of the area.
Waste disposal
- Take your rubbish home, do not burn it.
- Remember to bring some rubbish bags when you go out.
- Do not throw food waste out in the forest.
- Recycling points are available at the trailheads in Vikaköngäs and Vaattunkiköngäs.