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Outdoor destinations
Lumen peittämiä kuusia vaaran laella. Näkymä vaaralta alas lumipeitteiseen metsään.

The fell forests of the Paljakka Strict Nature Reserve are few of the remaining large old-growth forest stands in Finland south of Lapland. The Strict Nature Reserve trail leads to pristine fell forests, the small pond of Leililampi perched atop Holstinvaara fell and crosses the Kilpisuo mire on duckboards. The Paljakka Strict Nature Reserve was established for nature conservation and research.

  • Pristine nature of the reserve
  • Old-growth fell forests with an abundance of species
  • A trail suitable for day trips to the heart of the reserve
  • Hiking structures in the vicinity of the reserve

Activities and trails

The Paljakka Strict Nature Reserve trail runs six kilometres in the area of the reserve. In the reserve, you must stay on the trail at all times.

Suo, jolla kasvaa pieniä kuusia. Kauempana metsässä kasvaa korkeampia, kapeita kuusia.

Nature of Paljakka Strict Nature Reserve

Spruce is the dominant species in the strict nature reserve. At the top of fells, spruce forests are sparse, while on the lower slopes and along brooks they can grow in lush, thick herb-rich forests.

Nature at the site

Visitor's checklist

  • The Strict Nature Reserve is a nature reserveEveryone's rights do not apply in the strict nature reserve. Read the instructions and rules on the reserve page before setting out.
  • There are movement restrictions in the areaYou must stay on the trail at all times.
  • Camping in the area is prohibited
  • Making fire is forbidden
  • Remember to bring a trash bagThere are no waste containers in the area. Bring your own rubbish bag and take your waste home when leaving.
  • Always keep pets on a leashIt is forbidden to allow pets to run freely. Remember to bring along a bag for dog droppings and pack out any droppings you collect.
  • Be prepared for areas with limited or no mobile network coverageRemember to take a paper map and compass.
Instructions and rules