Leivonmäki National Park
Keski-Suomi
Leivonmäki National Park, established in 2003 in Central Finland, spans 31 square kilometers of diverse natural landscapes including bogs, lakeshores, ridge forests, and rapids. The park features Rutajärvi, an 11 km² lake divided by the Joutsniemi esker, part of a 50 km ridge formation. Its clear waters and numerous islands formed in the 19th century enrich the scenery. Rutajoki river flows from Rutajärvi to Lake Päijänne, boasting several waterfalls and rapids that oxygenate the water, supporting a unique population of lake trout. The park offers mostly easy hiking trails such as the Kirveslampi Circuit and Luupää Loop, suitable for day hikes and including accessible routes to Harjujärvi Kota and a sandy beach. Nature restoration efforts have been ongoing since the late 1980s, focusing on restoring bogs and forests to their natural states. The park's close proximity to private conservation areas enhances its ecological value. Leivonmäki is a tranquil destination appealing to nature lovers, hikers, and birdwatchers seeking unspoiled Finnish wilderness.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Leivonmäki National Park is during late spring to early autumn when trails are most accessible and nature is vibrant. Visitors are advised to prepare for mostly easy hikes suitable for day trips. Some trails and the sandy beach at Harjujärvi Kota are accessible for those with limited mobility. Purchasing visitor information or maps in advance from the official website or visitor centers can enhance the experience. There are no specific ticket fees, but supporting conservation through donations or guided tours is encouraged. Early arrival at parking areas during weekends helps avoid crowds.
Faits intéressants
- •Leivonmäki National Park covers 31 square kilometers and was established in 2003.
- •Rutajärvi, the park's main lake, is about 11 square kilometers and shaped like the letter J.
- •The Joutsniemi esker divides Rutajärvi into two parts and is part of a 50 km long ridge formation.
- •Rutajoki river has a 45-meter drop over 6 kilometers, featuring multiple waterfalls and rapids.
- •The park supports a unique population of lake trout adapted to its high-oxygen waters.
- •Restoration of bogs started in 1989 by filling ditches and removing young trees to return the landscape to its natural state.
Histoire
Leivonmäki National Park was established in 2003 in the former municipality of Leivonmäki, now part of Joutsa, Central Finland.
In the 1970s, a conflict arose over land use when peat production interests clashed with conservationists, resulting in a compromise dividing the area between peat extraction and protected status.
Since 1989, active restoration of bogs has been underway, including filling ditches and removing young trees from open bogs.
In the 2000s, forest restoration began, particularly in the Syysniemi area, to promote natural deciduous growth by removing planted spruce plantations.
These efforts continue to preserve the park's natural landscapes and biodiversity.
Guide du lieu
Kirveslampi Circuit
A 1.7 km easy loop trail around bog ponds and Kirveslampi pond near Haapasuon bog, offering peaceful nature views though the open bog itself is not visible from the trail.
Luupää Loop
A 2.2 km loop trail starting from the same parking area as Kirveslampi Circuit, leading to Harjujärvi Kota, a traditional Finnish shelter by the lake, accessible also by car.
Harjunkierros Trail
A 4.5 km red-marked loop trail from Selänpohja parking area passing esker formations, kettle holes, ponds, and lakes in a pine forest landscape.
Mäyränkierros Trail
A 5.5 km blue-marked loop trail combining forest paths and forest roads, with optional side trip to Soimalampi lean-to shelter.
Koskikaran Kierros Nature Trail
A 2.8 km nature trail starting near Rutalahti village school, featuring Korvenkoski waterfall as a key attraction.
Contact
Téléphone: 020 6395270