Sipoonkorpi National Park
Only 24km from Helsinki, but feels like ancient wilderness.Ancient limestone mines and untouched spruce forests mark this Finnish national park, where hiking trails wind past ice age formations and the Byabäcken river attracts birds year-round.
Located 24 kilometers from Helsinki's center, Sipoonkorpi National Park contains some of southern Finland's most untouched spruce forests. You can walk through ancient limestone mines, spot eagle-owls in their natural habitat, or climb to the top of Högberget hill for panoramic views of Eastern Helsinki. The park's trails connect dense woodlands with ice age formations like giant's kettles, while the Byabäcken river attracts numerous bird species throughout the year.
Getting to Sipoonkorpi
You can reach the national park from Helsinki, Vantaa, or Sipoo. Drive to the main entrance at Kalkkiuunintie 8 in Vantaa, or use one of several other parking areas around the park. During summer weekends, take the Hop-On Hop-Off bus service from Helsinki to the park's main entrance points.
Trail Network and Hiking Options
Start with the 1.4-kilometer Byabäcken nature trail, which takes you through spruce forests and open fields. For longer hikes, follow the 4.8-kilometer Kalkinpolttajanpolku trail across rocky terrain to reach the Kalkkiruukki shelter and campfire site. The Fiskträsk Trail runs 4.7 kilometers through the forest, while the Knuters Trail spans 3.8 kilometers across hills and valleys.
Natural Landscapes
Walk through dense spruce forests that open into swamps and rocky outcrops. Small streams, including the Byabäcken river, flow through valleys between the hills. Climb to Högberget, the park's highest point at 70 meters above sea level, where on clear days you can see up to tens of kilometers across the capital region.
Wildlife and Seasonal Activities
Look for lynx tracks in the forest or spot capercaillies and eagle-owls among the trees. In late summer and autumn, you can pick mushrooms and berries from the forest floor. During winter, go cross-country skiing on the western section trails, but remember that snow can hide rocky areas and the trails don't receive winter maintenance.
Climbing and Adventure Activities
Head to the Nuotiokallio climbing area to find a 100-meter wide, 5-meter high rock wall. The wall includes both bouldering spots and bolted routes for rope climbing. Glacial activity has shaped the rock face, creating routes for different skill levels, with multiple anchor points installed for safety equipment.
Practical Information
Wear hiking shoes with good grip, particularly for rocky sections. Pack mosquito repellent for summer visits. You'll find a dry toilet and fireplace at the Kalkkiruukki shelter area - light fires only when there's no forest fire warning active. You can camp in the park, but there are no permanent buildings for overnight stays.
