Nature-site parking fees draw support and vandalism

Parking fees introduced at five Finnish nature destinations have drawn both understanding and criticism, including vandalism at signs in Sipoonkorpi National Park, Yle reports.

Metsähallitus began the trial in early September, and it is due to run until next spring. The fees apply at Riisitunturi National Park, Kiilopää in Urho Kekkonen National Park and the Korouoma protected area in Lapland, as well as Koli National Park in North Karelia and Sipoonkorpi National Park in the Helsinki metropolitan area.

Metsähallitus says the revenue will help cover the upkeep of roads and hiking facilities. Its nature services customer director, Elias Haapakorva, said many visitors had accepted the trial, with some welcoming the chance to help fund the destinations.

Signs damaged in Sipoonkorpi

Some visitors have questioned whether parking should be charged for. In September, signs about the fees were broken, vandalised and knocked down in Sipoonkorpi, which spans the municipalities of Sipoo, Vantaa and Helsinki. Haapakorva said repairing them diverts money that could otherwise go towards maintaining outdoor destinations.

Parking costs one euro per hour, up to a maximum of five euros per day. The first 30 minutes are free. Payment is currently made through a mobile app, but Metsähallitus is testing payment by text message after receiving feedback that not everyone has a smartphone or can use mobile apps.

Trails, rest areas and other services in the national parks remain free to visitors.