Metsähallitus visitor counters are quiet but invaluable tools: they are used to monitor visitor numbers at dozens of sites across Finland (63 sites in 2026). It is not just about numbers. Visitation data guides trail maintenance, the upkeep of facilities, the use of resources and future investments. The data also shows the impact of activities – what is achieved with funding and how actively people move in nature. This helps ensure that hiking destinations remain functional for everyone.
How do the counters work in the field?
Visitor counters may be discreet, but they are technically smart. The data they produce is interpreted carefully and professionally.
1. The counter identifies direction: in and out
The counter provides two readings: in and out, meaning it can determine which direction a visitor has travelled. IN figures are most commonly used when calculating the number of visits.
2. A correction factor reveals the actual number of visits
Counters often need to be calibrated by calculating a correction factor to minimise quantitative and qualitative errors. By monitoring how the counter functions, a factor can be determined to adjust the recorded figure to the actual number of visits.
To calculate the total number of visits to a national park, estimates are also needed for visits that do not pass through counters. Based on this, a coverage percentage is calculated and used to determine the site’s actual visitor numbers.
3. Some counters distinguish between walkers and cyclists
Some counters count pedestrians only, while others can differentiate between cyclists and walkers. In those cases, the counter includes an induction loop embedded in the ground to detect passing bicycles, in addition to the pedestrian sensor. This provides separate figures for walkers and cyclists.
Hikers may not be aware of it as they pass by, but their mode of travel helps Metsähallitus plan, for example, trail durability and cycling opportunities.
Open data – explore visitation numbers yourself
In the Status of visitation numbers service, you can view visitor numbers for sites even on a daily basis. For hikers, the service offers information on peak times, for instance. The popularity of summer weekends is clearly visible in many national parks.
Browse visitation numbers: Status of visitation numbers (metsa.fi)
Data collection that serves nature all the way
Next time you pass a counter, its reading forms part of nationwide statistics. Visitor counters do not collect personal data, but they help build an overall understanding of how people move in nature.