Hammastunturi Wilderness Area (Finnish: Hammastunturin erämaa; translated "tooth fell") is one of the most remote and least visited wilderness areas in Western Europe. The core of the area is the upland of Kehäpää, Hammastunturi, and Appistunturi Fells, where the highest peaks rise up to 500 meters. The northern limit of spruce growth crosses the wilderness area with spruce forest in the southern part transitioning to pine forests in the north.
Hammastunturi Wilderness Area has had a colorful history over the last two centuries. The areas around Hammastunturi Fell and River Lemmenjoki form one of the largest roadless backwoods in Finland. In the past, the area was uses for reindeer herding. During the gold rush, hundreds of people lived in Kultala Village along the River Ivalojoki. The number of gold diggers was equal to the total population of Inari at the time.
Our hike begins at a roadside where we leave the car and start walking through pine forest, which gradually turns into a mountain birch forest and eventually an open plateau. The slopes are gentle on the plateau and the walking surface is soft moraine with rocks underneath. From the top of the fell, we can see the Ivalo River valley to the south and the vast pine forests to the west and north.
During our break on top of the fell, we might spot a rough-legged buzzard circling above, searching for its daily meal.
Our pace is slow, allowing us to fully experience the silence and openness around us.
Itinerary
Meeting at Xwander Nordic
We will meet up at Xwander headquarters at 10:00. We will gear you up for the wilderness hike if any extra equipment is needed.
Hammastunturi Hike
We begin our hike through the pine forest which gradually turns into a mountain birch forest and eventually an open plateau.
We may see signs of reindeer herding and if we're lucky, grazing reindeer in the valleys. We might also encounter various birds.
Our pace is slow, allowing us to fully experience the silence and openness around us.
After the hike we return to Xwander Nordic in Ivalo. Total duration of the activity is approximately six hours.
FAQ
What do I need to bring?
- Comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing
- Sunscreen, sunglasses and mosquito repellent depending on the weather
- Snacks and Water: While snacks are provided, you may want to bring your favorites
- Phone/camera, power bank if needed
What is the cancellation policy?
- Cancellation fee of 100% is charged if cancelled 7 days or less before the event.
- Cancellation fee of 50% is charged if cancelled 30 days or less before the event.
- Cancellation fee of 30% is charged if cancelled 45 days or less before the event.
Please note
- The trip is executed with a minimum of 2 participants
- Minimum age of the passengers is 4 years.
- Animals or pets are allowed.
Find Full FAQ from here
Book With Confidence
- Local family owned business
- Personalized service
- Flexible itineraries
- Small group sizes
Price Includes
- Guide Services
- Outdoor lunch
- Light snacks and beverages
Price Excludes
- Supplementary transfers from Inari, Nellim, Kakslauttanen, Kiilopää and Saariselkä