Helvetinjärvi National Park

Helvetinjärvi National Park

Pirkanmaa

75/100120 min

Helvetinjärvi National Park, located in the Pirkanmaa region of Finland within the municipality of Ruovesi, spans nearly 50 square kilometers of diverse wilderness. Established in 1982 and managed by Metsähallitus, the park showcases the wild forests characteristic of the Tavastia region. Its landscape is marked by deep gorges and rugged terrain formed by ancient geological faults, with the most famous gorge being Helvetinkolu at the southeastern end of Lake Helvetinjärvi. The park features old-growth forests and offers popular spots such as Haukanhieta beach for swimming and camping. It also provides two official climbing areas: Sammakkolampi for rock climbing and the northern shore of Iso Helvetinjärvi for ice climbing. The natural diversity is enhanced by storm damage from 2010, which left fallen trees that support insect life dependent on decaying wood. Facilities at Helvetin Portti include a restaurant, showers, water points, campervan area, cabin rentals, and an information point offering local delicacies and souvenirs. The park's combination of geological wonders, rich biodiversity, and visitor amenities makes it a captivating destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

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Astuce: The best time to visit Helvetinjärvi National Park is during the warmer months for swimming and camping at Haukanhieta beach. Visitors interested in climbing should check seasonal conditions for rock and ice climbing areas. It is advisable to plan ahead and consider purchasing tickets or booking accommodations at Helvetin Portti in advance during peak seasons. The park offers free access to a nearby local farm featuring wild boar and ostriches. Public transport connections are available from Tampere and Helsinki to Ruovesi, with local bus lines passing near the park's western side.

Faits intéressants

  • Helvetinkolu gorge has been a known tourist attraction since the 1800s.
  • The park's name translates literally to "Hell's Lake National Park" in Finnish.
  • Storms in 2010 caused extensive tree damage, which has enhanced biodiversity by creating habitats for wood-dependent insects.
  • Helvetin Portti serves as a gateway with facilities including a restaurant offering local wild boar and ostrich dishes.
  • The park includes official climbing sites for both rock climbing and ice climbing.

Histoire

1982

Helvetinjärvi National Park was established in 1982 to preserve the wild forests and unique geological formations of the Tavastia region.

The area’s deep gorges, including Helvetinkolu, have been known as tourist attractions since the 19th century.

In the 1920s, a lodge was built on the shore of Helvetinjärvi by the Visuvesi Youth Association, which was later donated to the municipality and then to the state for the national park.

2010

In 2010, severe storms caused significant tree falls, which have since contributed to the park’s ecological diversity by providing habitats for insects dependent on decaying wood.

Guide du lieu

1
Helvetinkolu Gorge19th century

The most famous gorge in the park, Helvetinkolu is a deep, narrow chasm formed by ancient geological faults. It has been a popular natural attraction since the 19th century and features a day hut with campfire facilities nearby.

2
Haukanhieta Beach and Camping Area

A favored spot for swimming and camping within the park, offering visitors a chance to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.

3
Climbing Areas: Sammakkolampi and Iso Helvetinjärvi

Two official climbing sites in the park: Sammakkolampi caters to rock climbers while the northern shore of Iso Helvetinjärvi is designated for ice climbing, offering year-round adventure opportunities.

4
Helvetin Portti Visitor Area1920s (lodge origin)
Visuveden Youth Association

The main entrance area providing visitor services such as a restaurant, showers, water points, campervan parking, cabin rentals, and an information point with local product sales including wild boar and ostrich dishes.

Contact

Téléphone: 020 6395270