Finland is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes — dense forests, vast lakes, rugged fells, and the magical midnight sun illuminating the skies. June is an exceptional month to experience Finland’s wilderness hiking trails. With long daylight hours and mild temperatures, hikers can enjoy peaceful trails rich with flora and fauna in full bloom.
This guide highlights the 15 best hikes in Finland in June, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Each trail offers unique features—from tranquil lake views to challenging summit climbs—and showcases the breathtaking beauty of Finnish nature.
1. Karhunkierros Trail, Oulanka National Park
Finland’s Most Famous Long-Distance Trail
The Karhunkierros Trail, or Bear’s Trail, stretches 82 kilometers through Oulanka National Park in northeastern Finland. It is renowned for its rugged beauty, including river rapids, waterfalls, and dense boreal forests.
June Hiking Experience
While the full trail takes several days, many opt for shorter day hikes in June, enjoying blooming wildflowers and vibrant greenery. The trail is well-marked with wooden bridges and ladders over rocky terrain.
Highlights
- Stunning Kiutaköngäs waterfall
- Wild berry picking opportunities
- Chance to spot reindeer and elk
2. Ruka Nature Trail, Kuusamo
Easy and Scenic
The Ruka Nature Trail is a 5-kilometer loop that offers gentle terrain with views of lakes and forests, perfect for families and casual hikers.
June Highlights
In June, the trail bursts with blooming wildflowers and active birdlife. It’s also a great time for photography, with long days offering ample light.
3. Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park: Pyhäkeron Kierros
Hike the Fells
Located in Lapland, the Pyhäkeron Kierros is a moderate 16-kilometer circular route through fells with panoramic views.
June Conditions
In June, snow has usually melted, revealing lush vegetation and open vistas, perfect for spotting rare Arctic plants.
4. Sipoonkorpi National Park: Mäntysalo Trail
Close to Helsinki
The Mäntysalo Trail is a 12-kilometer route through dense pine forests and peaceful wetlands, only a short drive from Finland’s capital.
June Experience
Ideal for a half-day hike surrounded by blooming heather and the hum of insects.
5. Nuuksio National Park: Haukkalampi Trail
Popular Near Helsinki
The Haukkalampi Trail is a 7-kilometer loop offering serene lake views, rocky outcrops, and old-growth forest.
June Highlights
Campfires and swimming in the Haukkalampi lake are popular summer activities, with the trail buzzing with life in June.
6. Oulanka National Park: Kiutaköngäs Trail
Shorter Trail with Iconic Views
A 4-kilometer loop around the famous Kiutaköngäs waterfall, this trail is perfect for a scenic half-day hike.
June Conditions
Water levels are moderate, and wildflowers color the forest floor.
7. Lemmenjoki National Park: Lemmenjoki Trail
One of Europe’s Largest Wilderness Areas
The Lemmenjoki Trail offers vast landscapes of forests, rivers, and hills.
June Experience
June is ideal for trekking here, with the midnight sun and relatively bug-free weather early in the month.
8. Koli National Park: Herajärven Kierros
Iconic Finnish Landscapes
The Herajärven Kierros is a 12-kilometer trail offering stunning views of Lake Pielinen and the famous Koli fells.
June Highlights
The trail is vibrant with blooming shrubs and offers breathtaking sunrise views under the midnight sun.
9. Repovesi National Park: Lapinsalmi Suspension Bridge Trail
Adventure and Scenery
The Lapinsalmi Trail is a 10-kilometer hike featuring forests, lakes, and a famous suspension bridge over the Rapajoki River.
June Conditions
The trail is perfect for swimming and canoeing breaks with warm June weather.
10. Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park: Teerenpelin Polku
Wild and Remote
This 11-kilometer trail runs through vast fells with beautiful lakes and sparse vegetation.
June Experience
Wildflowers and bird song fill the air, with great chances to spot local wildlife like reindeer.
11. Sipoonkorpi National Park: Korpinkierros Trail
Peaceful Woodland Walk
A 6-kilometer circular trail through dense forests and wetlands, ideal for birdwatching.
June Highlights
The forest is lush and alive with insects and nesting birds, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
12. Urho Kekkonen National Park: Kiilopää Trails
Lapland’s Expansive Wilderness
The Kiilopää area offers several interconnected trails, including the 8-kilometer Kiilopää Nature Trail.
June Conditions
The area is snow-free, ideal for spotting early summer blooms and Arctic animals.
13. Liesjärvi National Park: Isosuo Trail
Diverse Wetland and Forest Landscape
The 7-kilometer Isosuo Trail offers peat bogs, forest trails, and open marshes.
June Experience
Perfect for photographers capturing the blooming marsh plants and birdlife.
14. Hossa National Park: Ukko-Koli Trail
Forest and Lake Views
A 9-kilometer route featuring ancient rock paintings and peaceful lake shores.
June Highlights
June’s mild weather enhances the natural beauty and allows for swimming in the park’s pristine lakes.
15. Helvetinjärvi National Park: Helvetinjärvi Trail
Dramatic Scenery
The 12-kilometer trail circles Helvetinjärvi Lake, famous for its deep gorges and rugged cliffs.
June Conditions
The weather is pleasant, and the trail offers refreshing shade and stunning views.
Planning Your Hiking Adventure in Finland in June
Weather and Daylight
June in Finland brings mild temperatures averaging 15–20°C (59–68°F) and nearly 24 hours of daylight in the north, perfect for extended hikes and exploring.
What to Pack
- Layered clothing for changing weather
- Waterproof boots and rain gear
- Insect repellent, especially for mosquitoes
- Water bottle and snacks
- Camera and binoculars for wildlife spotting
Transportation and Access
Many parks are accessible by public transport or car from major cities like Helsinki, Rovaniemi, and Kuopio. Booking accommodations in nearby villages or campsites is advisable.
Safety Tips
- Stick to marked trails to protect nature and avoid getting lost
- Inform someone about your route if hiking remote trails
- Beware of mosquitoes and ticks; wear insect repellent and check yourself after hikes
- Check weather forecasts and trail conditions before setting out
Conclusion
Finland in June is a hiker’s paradise, with its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and endless daylight. Whether you prefer leisurely nature walks or challenging mountain trails, these 15 hikes provide something for everyone. From the iconic Karhunkierros Trail to the serene paths near Helsinki, June offers the perfect window to experience Finland’s breathtaking wilderness at its best.
