Riisitunturi National Park Travel Guide

Riisitunturi National Park in Lapland, Finland offers stunning natural attractions and cultural experiences. Check out this guide for everything you need to know before visiting, including places to visit, hiking trails, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Riisitunturi National Park

Nestled in the heart of Finnish Lapland, Riisitunturi National Park offers visitors a chance to experience the stunning natural beauty of northern Finland along with unique cultural experiences. This park is known for its ancient spruce forests, vast wetlands, and the breathtaking Riisitunturi Fell, which rises 465 meters above sea level. Since 1982, the park has been a protected area, ensuring that its unique flora and fauna remain untouched.

In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the park’s must-see destinations, hiking trails, accommodations, and local culture, so you can plan a trip that is both comfortable and unforgettable.

List of Places to Visit in Riisitunturi National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The park is rich in Sami culture, and there are several attractions in and around the park that reflect this heritage. The following are just a few of the cultural attractions that shouldn’t be missed:

  • Sami Museum and Nature Center Siida: This museum is located in Inari, just a short drive from Riisitunturi National Park. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s Sami culture, including exhibits on traditional handicrafts, clothing, and housing.
  • Lemmenjoki National Park: Located to the northwest of the park, Lemmenjoki is a stunning area of protected wilderness that is home to the largest gold deposits in Europe. Visitors can explore the rugged landscape, explore the Sami culture and learn about gold prospecting.

Natural Attractions of Riisitunturi National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Riisitunturi National Park is home to a diverse array of natural attractions, including forests, fens, wetlands, and towering peaks. Below are just a few of the park’s most notable natural destinations:

  • Riisitunturi Fell: The park’s star attraction is Riisitunturi Fell, which offers stunning views of the surrounding wilderness. To reach the summit, visitors can hike a 5km trail that winds through the park’s dense spruce forests before reaching the open fell. From there, hikers will enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The trail is inaccessible during winter months.
  • Isokuru: Isokuru is a beautiful canyon located on the west side of the Riisitunturi fell. It is easily accessible with a wooden walkway and wooden stairs to make it easy for people of different physical abilities. Here, visitors can marvel at the park’s rugged terrain while admiring the stunning Dallejujärvi lake that appears as a teal gem below. The area is also equipped with wood grills for a relaxing picnic.
  • Kitinen River: To the west of the park, visitors can explore the Kitinen River, a glacially-fed river that is inviting for those who want a refreshing swim or try fly fishing. The Kitinen River is also well-known for its impressive rapids, which offer an adrenaline-pumping adventure for more experienced kayakers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Riisitunturi National Park

Riisitunturi National Park offers visitors a wide variety of hiking and biking trails, ranging from easy, family-friendly walks to challenging backcountry treks. Below are just a few of the park’s most notable trails:

  • Riisitunturi Nature Trail: This 3km loop trail takes visitors on a journey through the park’s dense spruce forests before emerging onto the open fell. Along the way, hikers will enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside and learn about the park’s flora and fauna.
  • Kuusikko Nature Trail: A manageable wheelchair and stroller accessible 2km trail that is perfect for families and nature lovers. The trail offers a glimpse into the dynamic terrain and ecosystems of the park.
  • Pyhävaara Bike Trail: Cycle through the park’s stunning terrain, starting in Isokumpu and loop around the Pyhävaara cross-country ski trails. The trail is 22 km in length and offers a variety of hills and terrain changes, rewarding dedicated bikers with stunning views.

Best Things to Do in Riisitunturi National Park: Activities and Tours

With so many natural attractions to explore, there is no shortage of things to do in Riisitunturi National Park. Below are just a few of the park’s top activities and tours:

  • Northern Lights tours: Riisitunturi National Park is a prime location for viewing the Northern Lights, and there are several options for guided tours from October to March, including snowshoeing, kick sledging or snowmobiling.
  • Autumn Leaf Hike: With the park in a continuous change of colors, autumn is a great season for a long hike to the top of Riisitunturi fell. Wildlife sighting opportunities are prevalent too for those who keep a keen eye out.
  • Cross-country skiing: The park offers excellent cross-country skiing opportunities, with well-groomed trails that take visitors through the park’s stunning wilderness.

Week-Long Itinerary for Riisitunturi National Park

If you have a full week to spend exploring Riisitunturi National Park, consider the following itinerary:

Day 1-2: Explore the cultural attractions of the nearby town of Inari, including the Sami Museum and Nature Center Siida and the Pielpinniemi reindeer farm. Spend your afternoons exploring the park’s more easily-accessible hiking trails, such as Riisitunturi Nature Trail.

Day 3-4: Take time to further explore the Riisitunturi fell with a hike or mountain bike ride. Afterward, enjoy a relaxing picnic in Isokuru, including using the wooden grill to cook your meal.

Day 5-6: Take advantage of the park’s exciting winter activities, such as snowmobiling or Northern Lights tours. Alternatively, take a day trip to the nearby goldfields of Lemmenjoki National Park.

Day 7: Spend your final day exploring the park’s more remote areas, such as the Kitinen River for a refreshing swim or to try your hand at fly-fishing.

Food and Drink Scene of Riisitunturi National Park

Must-Try Dishes

Riisitunturi National Park is known for its unique culinary traditions, including dishes that feature local game and fish. Below are just a few of the dishes you won’t want to miss:

  • Rössypottu: A creamy, hearty dish made with reindeer meat, potatoes, and cured pork.
  • Kalakukko: A popular Finnish pastry that consists of a fish-filled rye dough that is first parboiled and then baked in an oven.
  • Sima: A traditional Finnish mead that is made with honey and accompanied with fresh lemons for added sweetness.

Local Beverages

Riisitunturi National Park is famous for its pure, refreshing water, which is often bottled and sold throughout the region. Additionally, the area is home to several local breweries which feature seasonal craft beers, such as Sled & Snooze, during winter.

Where to Stay in Riisitunturi National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several options for accommodations in and around Riisitunturi National Park, ranging from cozy guesthouses to luxurious hotels. Below are just a few of the most highly recommended options:

  • Wilderness Hotel and Suites Muotka: This upmarket hotel offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and an array of amenities, including a restaurant, sauna, and outdoor hot tub.
  • Metsähallitus guesthouses: Metsähallitus, the Finnish authority responsible for managing the park’s wilderness areas also rents out rustic cabins that can be rented, starting from just for 40€ a night for a maximum of four people. Beddings and kitchen equipment must be brought along or rented separately.
  • Camping: There are several camping areas in the park that offer a chance to immerse yourself in the wilderness during the summer months.

What to Buy in Riisitunturi National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Riisitunturi National Park is known for its unique handicrafts, which are made by local Sami artisans. Below are just a few souvenir ideas to consider:

  • Handmade knives: Local artisans make knives using traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations.
  • Sami jewelry: Riisitunturi National Park is home to several talented jewelry makers who produce stunning pieces from reindeer antlers and other local materials.
  • Hand-woven blankets: Riisitunturi National Park is known for its high-quality wool products, including cozy blankets made from locally-sourced sheep’s wool.

Local Culture and Customs of Riisitunturi National Park

The Sami culture is an integral part of life in Riisitunturi National Park, and visitors are encouraged to learn more about it during their stay. This includes gaining an understanding of traditional Sami cuisine, attending cultural events and learning about the traditional handicrafts that have been produced in the area for generations.

Best Time to Visit Riisitunturi National Park

The best time to visit Riisitunturi National Park depends on your interests. In summer (May-September), visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the park’s diverse ecosystem. In the fall (September-November), the landscape transforms into a stunning array of colors as the foliage changes. In winter (December-March), visitors can enjoy a range of winter activities, such as Northern Lights tours or snowmobiling.

Do’s and Don’ts of Riisitunturi National Park

Do:

  • Respect the park’s wilderness areas by staying on marked trails and camping only in designated areas.
  • Bring plenty of water and food, as there are no food services available inside the park.
  • Carry all trash out of the park with you.

Don’t:

  • Feed wild animals: This can cause them to become habituated to humans and put both human and animal safety at risk.
  • Pick any fauna: The park is protected and all natural elements should be left untouched.
  • Make loud noises, particularly during sensitive bird-nesting and flowering seasons.

Safety and Health

Safety in Riisitunturi National Park

During winter, visitors are advised to take specific precautions against the hazardous conditions, including dressing warmly and avoiding hiking and other strenuous activities that increase the risk of hypothermia and frostbite. Also, travelers should be aware of risks associated with wetlands such as deep mud, unstable ice patches, and swampy terrain. Visitors should always stick to marked trails, and be prepared with enough food, water and proper clothing in case of emergency.

Health in Riisitunturi National Park

During the summer months, visitors should be aware of the presence of ticks, which can transmit diseases. It is also important to take care when swimming in the park’s waterways as the waters can be very cold and strong current dangerous. Those with health risks should consult with a doctor before embarking on any strenuous outdoor activities.

Getting to Riisitunturi National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Riisitunturi National Park

The nearest airport to Riisitunturi National Park is Ivalo Airport (IVL), which is located approximately 40km southeast of the park. A shuttle service is available to and from the airport to the park.

Bus Stations Near Riisitunturi National Park

There are regional bus services that make stops in Sodankylä, Saariselkä and Ivalo, which are the closest townships to the park. The same companies that operate regional transport also offer bus transfer services to and from Riisitunturi National Park.

Other Options

Another option for getting to Riisitunturi National Park is to rent a car and drive there from the nearest town or airport. This is a popular choice, especially for those who want to explore the park at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Riisitunturi National Park

The best way to get around Riisitunturi National Park is on foot, by bike, or on cross-country skis during winter. Nearby towns Saariselka and Sodankyla also host rental services that offer car rental and the indigenous method of transport, the Lappish sleigh ride.

Where to Go Next from Riisitunturi National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are plenty of nearby towns and other destinations that are worth exploring after spending time in Riisitunturi National Park. Below are just a few of the best options:

  • Saariselka: A popular winter ski resort town just one hours drive from the park that is known for cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and dog-sledding.
  • Sodankylä: Located south of the park, this town offers several cultural attractions, including the Sodankyla Old Church and the Northern Lights Theater.
  • Lemmenjoki National Park: Located to the northwest of the park, Lemmenjoki is an ideal location for canoeing, fishing, and exploring historic Sámi settlements.

Conclusion

Riisitunturi National Park is a stunning destination that offers visitors the chance to experience the unique natural beauty and cultural heritage of Finnish Lapland. With its wide array of hiking trails, winter activities, and cultural attractions, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to hike to the top of the Riisitunturi fell or explore the park’s rich Sami culture, this national park is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.

Entrance of the Riisitunturi national park Entrance of the Riisitunturi national park Hiking during winter time Hiking during winter time Open Wilderness Hut Open Wilderness Hut