KEVO STRICT NATURE RESERVE

Covering an area of 1,530 km², Kevo Park is well worth a visit, if only to discover part of its impressive "Grand Canyon", 40 km long and 80 m deep - Northern Lapland's greatest natural attraction. The rest of the park consists of a vast mountain plateau cut by deep gorges. This strict nature reserve was created to preserve the Kevo Canyon and the fragile ecosystems of the surrounding mountains. The area is also of major scientific importance: numerous studies on biodiversity and northern natural environments are carried out here, making the site a living laboratory for researchers.

Access to the reserve is strictly regulated. In summer, hiking is only permitted on marked trails. The northern entrance, near the narrow Kevojoki River, offers one of the park's finest panoramas. Don't miss the 26-metre-high Fiellu Falls, one of the highlights of the visit. In winter, ski touring is permitted in the reserve, but there are no ski trails. The activity is therefore reserved for experienced, well-equipped and self-sufficient hikers.
The Kevo Canyon and its numerous side gorges are one of the most remarkable hiking and scientific research sites in the Utsjoki region. During the thaw period, travel on foot is strictly limited to marked trails. The park is divided into two main zones - the mountain zone and the canyon zone - each with its own access rules. Cycling is strictly prohibited throughout the reserve.

Hiking trails. Kevo's spectacular scenery can be explored on two signposted trails. The Guivin trail (82 km) is accessible from May 1 to October 15, with the exception of the Rotkolaakso protected area, where hiking is only permitted between June 15 and October 15 (in a loop), and skiing from October 16 to April 30. The Kevo trail (58 km) is open from June 15 to October 15, with skiing permitted from October 16 to March 31. These two trails plunge hikers into the heart of an authentic, isolated wilderness. They are aimed at experienced hikers, capable of evolving in total autonomy in sometimes demanding conditions. Camping is only permitted at designated rest areas. Fishing, hunting and gathering are prohibited.