Metsähallitus Outdoor Etiquette
- Respect nature – leave it as you found it. Keep pets on a leash.
- Stick to marked trails and follow the rules for different modes of movement. Check any restrictions or timing rules for your destination.
- Camp only in designated areas. Avoid washing dishes or bathing directly in water bodies. Follow the rules for wilderness huts.
- Light fires only in designated areas; prefer using a portable camping stove. Do not light fires during forest or grass fire warnings.
- Do not litter.
Hiking in Geopark Destinations
In nature conservation areas, such as national parks, everyman’s rights (now referred to as universal access rights) do not apply in their entirety. Specific guidelines and rules for each destination are provided on the Nationalparks.fi website under the descriptions of the respective hiking locations.
Nature is truly wonderful.
-Storm
Ninka Reittu: Storm and Saana in the forest – Outdoor Etiquette Stories
Preserving Geological Values
- Visitor sites feature information boards that provide insights into the locations and their geological history.
- Details about each trail’s signage can be found in the trail descriptions on the Lhgeopark.fi website.
- Visitor sites are equipped with protective structures such as stairs, boardwalks, and fences. These guide visitors safely and help prevent damage to the sites.
Movement Restrictions
In the Geopark’s national parks and peatland conservation areas, there are restricted zones where access is prohibited during certain periods to protect birds during nesting and migration. You can use marked trails year-round. Access to restricted zones is prohibited during the following times:
- Lauhanvuori National Park: April 15 – July 31
- Kauhaneva-Pohjankangas National Park: April 1 – September 15
- Haapakeidas Mire Resrerve: April 1 – July
Hämeenkangas is a training area for the Finnish Defence Forces, and occasional movement restrictions may apply due to military activities. You can find specific guidance for Hämeenkangas on the Luontoon.fi website. Pohjankangas is a designated military firing range, and access is strictly prohibited.
A responsible hiker ensures the preservation of natural values.
Practical Hiking Tips
- Minimize waste before your hike. Choose reusable containers instead of disposable ones. Organic waste can be composted in dry toilets, and small amounts of clean cardboard and paper can be burned in a campfire. Take all other waste with you from nature and dispose of it properly.
- Campfires are only permitted at designated fire pits. In other areas, you must obtain the landowner’s permission to make a fire. Campfires are prohibited during grass and forest fire warnings. Some fire pits in the Geopark area are supplied with firewood by Metsähallitus or local municipalities.
- Camping is allowed only in designated areas within protected areas. In other locations, temporary camping is allowed under everyman’s rights, provided you respect landowners and other people.
- Carry a water bottle, which you can refill with tap water at local service businesses. Drinking water is also available from natural springs and wells maintained by Metsähallitus. Information on the drinkability of water is provided at rest stops and on Metsähallitus’ website.
- Dry toilets are available at Geopark rest stops, but they do not have toilet paper, so bring your own roll.
Leave no trace of your visit.
Explore the Area Safely
- The general emergency number is 112. If you call through the 112 Suomi app, the emergency dispatcher will automatically receive your location information.
- To avoid getting lost, bring a sufficiently detailed paper map and a compass. Do not rely solely on digital navigation tools.
- Ensure you have enough food and water with you.
- Dress appropriately for the season and bring extra clothing for unexpected weather changes.
- Carrying a small first aid kit is always a good idea.
- Before Your Hike: Inform someone about your planned route and estimated return time before heading out.
- Take care of traffic safety. Use reflectors and lights in the dark, and always wear a helmet when cycling. In protected areas, cars may only be parked in designated parking areas.
- Be especially cautious when on the water and always wear a life jacket.
- In winter, note that the weather can be very cold, heavy snowfall is possible, and it gets dark early in the afternoon.
- Never go onto ice in winter unless its thickness has been reliably measured. Be aware that ice can be thin in some areas due to water currents. If you travel on ice, carry proper safety equipment with you.
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<p style=”text-align: center;”><span class=”wave-center”>Prepare thoroughly for your hike in advance.</span></p>
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Respect Others and Experience Local Culture
In addition to its geology and natural beauty, the Geopark showcases the unique culture, history, and traditions of the region. During your visit, explore the Geopark’s cultural sites, attend events, and engage with local people and customs.
When traveling in the Geopark area, be mindful of both local residents and other hikers and travelers. Keep noise levels low during your hikes and at accommodations to avoid disturbing others or the surrounding nature.
When taking photos, respect the privacy of others.
Support Local Businesses
By using the services and products of local businesses during your visit, you contribute to the vitality of the Geopark region.
- Businesses marked with the Geopark logo can provide information about the Geopark, its attractions, trails, and services.
- Indulge in local cuisine during your visit.
- Take home locally produced food, handicrafts, or other unique regional products.
Include the hashtag #lhgeopark in your social media posts.
Choose Low-Emission Modes of Transportation
The majority of tourism’s carbon footprint comes from traveling to destinations. By choosing low-emission transportation options, you can significantly reduce the climate emissions associated with tourism and help combat climate change.
- You can travel to Parkano railway station by train or take a bus to various locations in the region.
- Within the area, use your own bicycle or rent one from local service providers.
- Cars are available for rent in the Geopark’s towns of Kankaanpää, Kauhajoki, and Parkano.
Your choices can make a positive impact.
