Pallas-Yllastunturi is one of Finland's best-known national parks, a long chain of rounded fells running north to south. A day trip from Levi takes you into this wilderness by vehicle and on foot, with a guide who knows the terrain. The park is known for clean air, huge views and a sense of space. The fells rise above the tree line, so from the top you see rolling hills, forests and lakes stretching to the horizon.Winter trips may include snowshoeing or a short hike, with stops at viewpoints and a break for a hot drink. The tour is aimed at people who want a deeper experience of nature than a village-based outing can provide. It suits fit travellers who enjoy quiet landscapes and are comfortable with a full day on the move.
The park protects fell, old-growth forest and wetlands, and is a favourite of walkers who follow the long Hetta-Pallas trail in summer. In winter, snow transforms the fells, with wind-sculpted drifts on the summits and frost-laden trees below. The air is exceptionally clear, which makes the stars and the aurora spectacular on cold nights.
There is an information centre in the park, and the area is known for its dark skies and silence.A day trip involves a long drive from Levi, so the day is divided between travel and walking. Conditions matter: the fells can be windy and cold, so dress for exposure.
Guides watch the weather and adapt the route, and will turn back if conditions are unsafe. It is not a technical outing, but the exposure and distance require reasonable fitness and good equipment.Wildlife is part of the appeal. Reindeer wander through the area, and with luck you might see tracks of fox, hare or even elk.
Birds such as ptarmigan and ravens are common. A guide can help you spot signs. Bring a camera, binoculars if you have them, a thermos and snacks. Consider combining the trip with an aurora night, since the dark skies of the region are among the best.
If you enjoy it, the park can be explored further on a longer stay.Treat the day as a proper outdoor outing. Wear layers that you can adjust, with a windproof shell and warm boots, and pack a thermos, lunch and extra snacks. The park's weather can change quickly, so listen to your guide and be ready to turn back.
Bring sunglasses for the bright snow, sun cream for exposed skin and a spare pair of gloves. If you have a camera, take a wide lens for the landscapes and a longer one for distant animals. Respect park rules, stay on marked routes and carry out your rubbish.
The visitor centre can provide information about trails and wildlife, and it is worth a brief visit. For those who return in summer, the same fells offer long hiking trails and berry-picking, a very different but equally memorable side of the landscape.If you wish to stay longer, the park has accommodation and small restaurants nearby, and guided activities such as snowshoeing and skiing.
A night in the area also improves the aurora chances, since the sky is dark and the horizon is open. For many visitors who include Pallas in a Levi stay, it becomes the quietest and most memorable part of the trip.
What to expect
The experience
A guided full-day excursion from Levi to Pallas-Yllastunturi National Park, combining a scenic drive with a short snowshoe or hike and viewpoint stops.
Best time
Winter for snow-covered fells, or late summer and autumn for colourful hiking.
How long
A full day, including a long drive.
Tips
Dress for wind and cold, bring snacks and water, and respect the guide's route decisions.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Nature lovers who want open fell landscapes and quiet.
- Families
- Better for older children who can handle a long day.
- Couples
- Atmospheric and peaceful, with big views.
- Pair with
- An aurora hunt for the dark skies.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
How far is Pallas from Levi?+
It is a drive of a couple of hours each way, depending on conditions.
Is the park open in winter?+
Yes, the park is accessible in winter, though some facilities are seasonal.
Do I need to be fit?+
Moderate fitness is needed for a full day with some walking.
What will I see?+
Treeless fells, old forest, frozen lakes and possibly animal tracks.
Is it good for the aurora?+
The area has dark skies and is a good place for aurora watching on clear nights.
