Wilderness Areas in Northern Lapland

The wilderness areas are vast, uninhabited, roadless areas that have remained in a near natural state. The aims are to conserve their rugged wild nature, to preserve Sámi culture and livelihoods, and to develop the diverse use of nature.

Wilderness areas are established in northernmost Lapland in accordance to the Wilderness Act. They are not protected areas proper but belong to Finland’s Natura 2000 network.

All 12 of Finland’s wilderness areas were established in 1991 and their combined area measures 14,891 sq.km. All the wilderness areas are managed by Metsähallitus, Parks & Wildlife Finland.

An experienced hiker can roam the wilderness of northern Lapland for days without running into other travellers and enjoy the magnificient nature of the north.

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