Seitseminen National Park
Pirkanmaa
Seitseminen National Park, located in the Pirkanmaa region of Finland within the municipalities of Ikaalinen and Ylöjärvi, is a protected area established in 1982 and expanded in 1989, covering 45.5 square kilometers. The park features a diverse landscape of upland and lowland coniferous boreal forests, including Norway spruce and Scots pine, interspersed with extensive mires, swamps, and bogs. Some forest areas are among the oldest publicly accessible in Finland, with trees nearly 400 years old. The park is home to a variety of bird species such as black grouse, common cranes, whooper swans, and wood sandpipers, as well as rare mammals like the Siberian flying squirrel and the emblematic pine marten. Cultural heritage is represented by the Kovero tenant farm dating back to 1859, showcasing traditional Finnish farming life. Visitors can explore several nature trails and enjoy facilities including a nature center, rental cabins, and camping sites. The park's natural and cultural richness, combined with its well-maintained infrastructure, makes it a unique destination for hiking, birdwatching, and experiencing Finland's boreal wilderness.
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Tip: The best time to visit Seitseminen National Park is during late spring to early autumn for optimal trail conditions and wildlife observation. It is advisable to purchase tickets or book accommodations in advance during peak seasons. The park offers accessible trails, including a 500-meter barrier-free route at Saari-Soljanen. Visitors can benefit from guided tours and educational programs available at the nature center. Discounts may be available for groups, students, and seniors. Public transport connections exist via regional bus routes, but having a car facilitates access to various park entrances and sites.
Interesting facts
- •Seitseminen National Park contains some of the oldest forests accessible to the public in Finland, with trees nearly 400 years old.
- •The park received the European Diploma of Protected Areas in 1996, recognizing its conservation value.
- •More than half of the park's area consists of mires, including swamps and bogs, which are critical habitats for northern bird species.
- •The emblem species of the park is the pine marten, a common inhabitant of its old-growth forests.
- •The Kovero tenant farm within the park dates back to 1859 and represents traditional Finnish rural culture.
History
Seitseminen National Park was established in 1982 to protect the unique boreal forest ecosystems and mires of the Suomenselkä watershed region.
In 1989, the park was expanded to its current size of 45.5 square kilometers.
The area includes some of Finland's oldest forests, with conservation efforts dating back to the protection of Multiharju old-growth forest in 1910.
Historically, parts of the park were used for forestry and agriculture, exemplified by the Kovero tenant farm established in 1859.
Restoration efforts in the late 20th century have aimed to return drained mires to their natural state, enhancing biodiversity and habitat quality.
Place Guide
Nature Center1989
Located in the northwest part of the park, the nature center serves as the main visitor hub since 1989, offering exhibitions, educational programs, and guidance about the park's ecosystems and cultural heritage.
Multiharju Old-Growth Forest Trail (Aarnipolku)1910 (protection established)
A 1.8 km trail through some of the park's oldest forests on the Multiharju ridge, showcasing nearly 400-year-old pines and diverse boreal flora.
Saari-Soljanen Mire Trail
A 2.0 km trail encircling the Saari-Soljanen mire, featuring a 500-meter accessible path suitable for visitors with mobility challenges.
Kovero Tenant Farm1859
A historic farm established in 1859, preserved as a cultural heritage site within the park. It offers guided tours, demonstrations, and seasonal events illustrating traditional Finnish farming life.
Contact
Phone: 020 6395270
