Finland’s state hiking sites classified by use – most popular secured

Finland’s state-owned forest and park service Metsähallitus has published a map outlining a proposed national hiking site network from 2028, identifying which locations will remain under its management and which face review this autumn, Yle reports.

Three options exist for sites under review: continued management by Metsähallitus, transfer to a partner via a long-term lease agreement, or complete divestment. Under such agreements, partners commit to maintenance and visitor safety, a model already in use at sites like Liimanninkoski in Muhos, managed by the local municipality.

National parks, state hiking areas, and many wilderness regions will remain under Metsähallitus. Sites with low national visitor numbers—such as Kittilä’s Kumputunturi (7,000 annual visits), Savukoski’s Kivitunturi (4,200), and Pello’s Jaipaljukka-Salmilompolo (6,000)—are among those under review. Some sites attract as few as 2,000 visitors yearly.

Selection criteria include cultural and natural value preservation, accessibility, and significance for local recreation and tourism. Elias Haapakorva, Metsähallitus customer relations director, noted that while these sites may hold regional importance, their low national demand places them under review.

The government seeks to introduce voluntary entry fees for sites like national parks, but current fundraising laws prevent Metsähallitus from accepting payments from private individuals or companies. Haapakorva emphasized that basic hiking services will remain free, though the agency aims to explore donations or voluntary fees.

Future development will prioritize demand-driven services, scaling offerings up or down based on funding. Metsähallitus already operates paid cabins and reservable saunas, and modern payment systems could facilitate voluntary contributions with minimal investment.