Liesjärvi National Park
Kanta-Häme
Liesjärvi National Park, located in Finland's Kanta-Häme region, spans approximately 22 square kilometers and showcases a near-natural lake highland environment. Established in 1956 and expanded in later decades, the park features diverse forests including majestic spruce woods, bright bilberry heaths, mires, ridges, and lake views. It contains over 40 kilometers of shoreline and is renowned for its cultural heritage site, the Korteniemi traditional estate, where visitors can experience early 20th-century forestry life and traditional agricultural practices. The park's ancient forests harbor trees up to 180 years old, and its trails, part of the extensive Hämeen Ilvesreitistö network, offer about 30 kilometers of marked hiking paths. Camping is available at designated areas, including spots suitable for tents and travel trailers, with facilities such as campfire sites and rental huts. Notable natural attractions include Kyynäränharju ridge and the primeval forest of Ahonnokka. Liesjärvi Lake itself is protected, though the lakebed lies outside the park boundaries. The park balances conservation with visitor engagement, preserving disappearing landscapes and traditional lifestyles.
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Tip: The best time to visit Liesjärvi National Park is from late spring to early autumn when the Korteniemi heritage farm is open and trails are accessible. Visitors are encouraged to reserve rental huts in advance, especially during peak seasons. Camping is permitted only in marked areas, and the park offers accessible facilities like the Tittilammi cooking shelter. Hiking the Hämeen Ilvesreitistö trail network allows for extended exploration. No specific ticket is required, but checking the official website before visiting is recommended for updates and event schedules.
Interesting facts
- •The park contains forests with trees up to 180 years old, representing some of the oldest in the region.
- •Korteniemi traditional estate is the only preserved southern Finnish forest ranger's farm with its original courtyard.
- •The park's trails are part of the Hämeen Ilvesreitistö, a network exceeding 200 kilometers for hiking enthusiasts.
- •Ancient human settlement evidence from the Stone Age has been found within the park, including at Korteniemi.
- •The park includes protected islands of Liesjärvi Lake, although the lakebed itself is outside the park boundaries.
History
Liesjärvi National Park was officially established in 1956, making it one of Finland's oldest national parks.
Its origins trace back to protected areas designated as early as 1920, including preservation of primeval forests in 1929.
The Korteniemi forestry estate, now a heritage farm, was incorporated to safeguard cultural landscapes and vanishing nature types.
The land came under state control in 1878, with the first forest ranger appointed to oversee sustainable use and protection.
The park has expanded through the 1980s and 2000s to its current size, maintaining a balance between natural conservation and cultural heritage preservation.
Place Guide
Korteniemi Heritage FarmEarly 1900s
A traditional forestry estate restored to reflect early 20th-century rural life, offering visitors hands-on experiences with historical agricultural work and cultural events. It is the only preserved southern Finnish forest ranger's farm with its original courtyard.
Kyynäränharju Ridge
A scenic ridge offering panoramic views of the surrounding forests and lakes, ideal for hiking and nature observation.
Ahonnokka Primeval Forest1929 (protection established)
An ancient forest area protected since 1929, featuring old-growth trees and rich biodiversity, representing the park's commitment to preserving natural heritage.
Marked Hiking Trails
Approximately 30 kilometers of well-maintained trails that are part of the larger Hämeen Ilvesreitistö network, allowing for both short walks and extended hikes through diverse landscapes including forests, ridges, and lakeshores.
Camping Areas and Facilities
Designated camping spots for tents and travel trailers, including campfire sites, an accessible cooking shelter at Tittilammi, and rental huts providing shelter for visitors.
Contact
Phone: 020 6395270
