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Outdoor destinations

Prospektori circle trail

Hiking & outdoor recreation

Length7.8 km

Duration(7,4 km trail 2-3 hours (start from Laanila), 8,2 km Trail 3-4 hours, start from UK National Park gate in Saariselkä)

Degree of difficultyEasy

LocationInari

The trail runs through youngish pinewood, but here and there you can see approximately 300-year-old pines with shield-shaped bark, large branches and flat tops. The Prospektor circle trail is easy to traverse, suitable for all ages, and is marked with yellow Prospektor symbols on posts. It is level throughout and covered with crushed stone. Its wetland section is equipped with duckboards . In terms of its landscape, the trail is not as varied as the other trails in the area; its variations in altitude are minor and gentle. The Prospektor Trail tells you about the history of gold-mining and the importance of gold in Saariselkä and Luttojoki. The highlight of the trail is an old gold mine established by the mining company Prospektor in 1902. To the west of the mine, the trail crosses a small branch stream of the river Latvajoki. Finland’s largest gold nugget ever was found around here – the precise location is unknown – by Eevert Kiviniemi in 1935. The nugget weighed 392.9 grams; a replica of it is displayed in Tankavaara Gold Museum.

    • Circle trail
    • Multi-purpose trailYou can hike, bike or run along the trail. Please note other trail users (moving at different speeds)
    • The trail can only be used during the snow-free seasonThe trail serves as a ski track in the winter.
    • Campfire siteAlways check for any wildfire warnings in effect before making a fire.
    • Camping permittedCamping is allowed under everyman’s right.
    • Dry toiletRemember to bring toilet paper.
    • Remember to bring a trash bagThere are no waste bins on the trail. Bring along your own trash bag and take your waste out with you when leaving.
    • No water point

    Contact information

    Metsähallitus National Parks FinlandContacts and feedback