Kevo Strict Nature Reserve

In Kevo Strict Nature Reserve, you can experience the Lapland landscape at its most wondrous. The heart of the nature reserve consists of a canyon spanning 40 km in length and in places 80 m in depth, at the bottom of which flows the Kevojoki River. The rest of the nature reserve is fell highland crossed by gentle slopes of ravines. There are also large tundra-like open mires. The unique area is also a prime habitat for rare birds, which is why access is restricted to signposted trails.

The Kevo Nature Reserve with its magnificent canyons is among the most rugged hiking attractions in Finland. There are two longer marked trails, 63 and 86.5km, along which hikers may explore the area. Both trails are demanding. 

The quickest way to have a glimpse of the corner of the nature reserve is via a 2-kilometre nature trail starting at Sulaoja along the Karigasniementie road.

Established in 1956, the reserve’s footprint covers some 712km². The aim of establishing the nature reserve has been to protect the Kevo Canyon and the sensitive fell landscape which surrounds it. The Kevo area is scientifically valuable. The subarctic research station of the University of Turku (www.utu.fi) carries out varied research at Kevo.

Inside the strict nature reserve, visitors are allowed to move only on marked trails.