Hammastunturi Wilderness Reserve is only suitable for experienced hikers,as there is just one marked trail. Huts are found along the Ivalojoki river
The northern forest line of the spruce goes through Hammastunturi Wilderness Reserve. Majestic old pine forests are found to the north of the spruce forests, and the lakes and rivers between the fell highlands call to fishing enthusiasts. A single marked hiking trail leads through this wilderness, which is also known as Hammaskaira. The trail takes visitors to a historic destination, Kultala on the River Ivalojoki, which became famous during the late 19th century gold rush. The uplands in the central parts of Hammastunturi area and paddling route on the River Ivalojoki are suitable for experienced hikers and paddlers.
- Fells with peaks rising to above 500 metres
- Fell lakes, brooks and rivers
- Popular paddling route on the River Ivalojoki, rapids classification I-III
- An area specifically reserved for reindeer husbandry
- History of gold prospecting along the Ivalojoki River: buildings and monuments
- Few open wilderness huts, most of them along the Ivalojoki River
Activities and trails
Hammastunturi Wilderness Reserve offers varied terrain with fell uplands and mires for experienced hikers.
The River Ivalojoki is one of the finest paddling routes in Finland, and instructions for paddlers are also available.
Fishing spots in the area include the Ivalojoki River and its tributaries, as well as the lakes, which you can reach by hiking in summertime.
Hammaskaira is a popular area for grouse hunting.
What else is there to see
Winter hiking (ski touring) in Hammastunturi Wilderness Reserve, picking berries and fungi in hammastunturi wilderness reserve
Natural Features of Hammastunturi Wilderness Area
The Hammastunturi wilderness Reserve is rugger upland of Inari Lapland, jtraversed by the Ivalo River in its southern part. The area is characterized by pine forests and clear lakes.
Nature at the site
History of Hammastunturi Wilderness Reserve and Ivalojoki River
Traces of deer hunting and gold prospecting, which are closely tied to the history of the Hammastunturi wilderness, can be seen in the wilderness reserve and along the river Ivalojoki.
History of the destinationVisitor's checklist
Everyman’s Right apply in the wilderness areaTemporary camping is allowed.
Making campfire is allowed in the terrainIf a designated campfire site is available within 500 meters, you must use the site for making a fire and not create a new campfire site. Collecting fallen tree branches and twigs for your fire is fine.
Remember to bring a trash bagThere are no waste bins in the area. Bring a trash bag and take the trash with you.
Be prepared for areas with limited or no mobile network coverageRemember to take a paper map and compass.
Take the Sámi cultural environment into considerationBe respectful and do not damage the sacred sites of the Sámi people.