HELVETINJÄRVI NATIONAL PARK INVITES YOU: EXPLORE A LANDSCAPE SHAPED OVER MILLIONS OF YEARS

Hidden deep in the ancient forests of Ruovesi, just over an hour’s drive from Tampere, lies one of Finland’s most striking natural destinations — Helvetinjärvi National Park. With dramatic gorges and sheer cliff walls that formed up to 200 million years ago through tectonic shifts, the park’s raw beauty continues to amaze modern-day hikers and nature lovers.

The crown jewel of the park is Helvetinkolu, a narrow, 40-meter-deep rock crevice offering a breathtaking view across the dark waters of Lake Iso Helvetinjärvi. This awe-inspiring scene once captivated the imaginations of Finnish cultural icons like painter Akseli Gallen-Kallela and poet J.L. Runeberg.

Yet the allure of Helvetinjärvi extends far beyond its rugged cliffs. Deep, untouched forests, peaceful woodland ponds, and a tranquil sandy beach called Haukanhieta await those looking for serenity. It’s the perfect place to end a hike with a swim or simply soak in the silence of nature.

🌿 NATURE EXPERIENCES IN MANY FORMS

With around 40 kilometers of marked trails, the park offers something for all levels of adventurers. One of the most popular routes is the “East of Helvetti” nature trail, leading from the Kankimäki parking area to Helvetinkolu. Hikers are advised to walk counter-clockwise for the most stunning vistas.

For the adventurous, the park provides opportunities to paddle through gorge lakes or scale designated climbing rocks near Sammakkolampi. Climbing is only allowed in marked areas, so safety guidelines should be followed closely.

🏕️ SERVICES IN THE HEART OF THE WILDERNESS

Despite its remote, untamed atmosphere, Helvetinjärvi offers several creature comforts. Ravintola Helvetin Portti, open in summer, serves local delicacies like wild boar, ostrich, freshwater fish, and forest mushrooms — all sourced from nearby farms and woods.

Accommodation options include the cozy Kaitajärvi farm stay, the Kankijärvi cabin with a wood-heated yurt sauna, and Hiedan Maja, a rental wilderness hut managed by Metsähallitus.

Several guide services are available to enrich your visit. Haukkamaa Adventures offers guided hikes, while LuontoLeena organizes forest-to-table experiences including herb walks, foraging, and outdoor cooking with a Green Care philosophy. For travelers with accessibility needs, Matrocks provides inclusive, barrier-free nature experiences. RetkiEvä handles equipment rentals and guided canoe trips.

🚗 HOW TO GET THERE

Helvetinjärvi is best accessed by car. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Tampere and roughly 2 hours from either Jyväskylä or Pori. While no direct public transport reaches the park, nearby towns are served by bus, and the final leg can be cycled.

Main starting points include the Kankimäki parking area (Helvetinkoluntie 775, Ruovesi) and Haukanhieta, both offering accessible restrooms and clearly marked trailheads.

🌍 A WINDOW INTO FINLAND’S ANCIENT PAST

Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a weekend wanderer, Helvetinjärvi National Park offers a chance to step into another era — one carved by glaciers, cracked by shifting continents, and polished by time. It’s a place where nature tells stories older than humankind, and where solitude and wonder walk hand in hand.

Written by: Finland Magazine / Finland App
Published by: Finland Magazine / Finland App