Pyhä-Luosto National Park
Lappi
Pyhä-Luosto National Park, located in the Lapland region of Finland, spans the municipalities of Sodankylä, Pelkosenniemi, and the city of Kemijärvi. Established originally in 1938 around the Pyhätunturi fell and expanded in 2005 to include the Luosto area, it is one of Finland's oldest and newest national parks. Covering 144 square kilometers, the park features a rugged landscape dominated by twelve quartzite fells, remnants of ancient mountains formed about two billion years ago. The highest peaks, Noitatunturi and Ukko-Luosto, rise above 500 meters, and the dramatic Isokuru canyon, carved by glacial meltwaters, plunges 220 meters deep with the Pyhäkasteenlampi pond and a 17-meter waterfall. The park's terrain includes old coniferous forests, mires, and unique rock fields shaped by frost weathering. Vegetation ranges from pine and spruce forests to rich aapa mires and tundra species, supporting diverse wildlife including reindeer, moose, bears, and nearly 130 bird species such as Siberian jay and whooper swan. Visitors can explore numerous hiking trails, mountain biking routes, and in winter, skiing and snowshoeing paths. The park also hosts the Lampivaara amethyst mine, one of the few gem mines open to tourists. Facilities include the Nature Centre Naava with exhibitions, a restaurant, and shops, as well as wilderness huts and campfire sites.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Pyhä-Luosto is during summer for hiking and nature watching or winter for skiing and snowshoeing. Purchase tickets in advance for visiting the Lampivaara amethyst mine, especially in peak seasons. The Nature Centre Naava offers helpful information, guided tours, and amenities. Discounts may be available for groups or with regional travel cards. Prepare for variable weather and bring suitable gear for hiking and outdoor activities.
Faits intéressants
- •Pyhä-Luosto is located on Finland's southernmost large fell area, with fells formed from quartzite that resisted erosion over two billion years.
- •The Isokuru canyon is 220 meters deep and features a 17-meter waterfall named Pyhäkasteenputous.
- •Lampivaara amethyst mine within the park is one of the few gem mines open to visitors, allowing tourists to experience mining.
- •The park hosts nearly 130 bird species, including rare Lapland birds such as the Siberian jay and the whooper swan.
- •Ancient forests in the park include trees up to 200 years old, with diverse vegetation ranging from pine forests to lush riparian woodlands.
Histoire
Pyhä-Luosto National Park was originally established in 1938, focusing on the Pyhätunturi fell area.
In 2005, the park was expanded to include the Luosto fell region, combining the old and new protected areas into one park.
The fells themselves are ancient geological formations, remnants of a mountain range similar to the Alps that existed approximately two billion years ago.
Over millennia, glacial meltwaters shaped the dramatic valleys and canyons seen today.
The area has a history of Sami culture and early Christian influences, including a baptism event in 1648 at Pyhäkasteenlampi pond.
The Lampivaara amethyst mine has been a notable site for rare gemstone extraction and tourist visits.
Guide du lieu
Isokuru Canyon
A dramatic 220-meter deep canyon carved by glacial meltwaters, featuring the Pyhäkasteenlampi pond and a 17-meter waterfall named Pyhäkasteenputous. It is a highlight of the park's rugged terrain and geological history.
Lampivaara Amethyst Mine
A rare gemstone mine open to tourists where visitors can learn about amethyst mining and even try their luck at finding gems. Located in the Luosto area of the park.
Nature Centre Naava
Located in the Pyhä fell village, this centre offers nature exhibitions, a restaurant, a shop, and conference facilities, serving as a gateway to the park's natural wonders.
Contact
Téléphone: 020 6397302