Hammastunturi Wilderness Hike

Head out into the Hammastunturi Wilderness Area, one of the most remote and least visited regions in Western Europe. This hike takes you through a landscape shaped by fells, forests, and long natural history, offering a true sense of northern backcountry.

The core of the area consists of the uplands of Kehäpää, Hammastunturi, and Appistunturi fells, with the highest peaks rising up to 500 metres. The northern limit of spruce growth crosses the wilderness area, and the spruce forests of the south gradually give way to pine forests further north.

The route moves through changing terrain, from pine forests to mountain birch zones and further up to open fell areas. As the landscape opens, you’ll reach gentle uplands with wide views across the surrounding valleys and forests.

Hammastunturi has a rich history. The area has long been used for reindeer herding, and during the gold rush, nearby river valleys were home to large numbers of gold prospectors. At one point, the number of gold diggers in the area matched the population of the entire Inari region.

Along the way, you may spot signs of reindeer herding and, with a bit of luck, see reindeer grazing in the distance. The area is also home to a variety of birdlife, such as willow grouse, Siberian jays, whimbrels, and golden plovers. From the fell tops, you can see the Ivalo River valley to the south and vast pine forests stretching to the west and north.

The hike is moderately active, with a steady pace and time to take breaks along the way. During the hike, we stop to enjoy a light lunch, snacks, and drinks.

This experience offers a chance to move through varied terrain and explore a part of Lapland that remains largely untouched.