Tucked away in Eastern Lapland, Salla is a remote summer and autumn destination where vast wilderness and raw beauty set the rhythm of life. Aptly known as “in the middle of nowhere,” it lies between two national parks, deep in the forests and fells, with the Arctic Circle marking its southern edge as a true gateway to the north. Scattered across this vast landscape are around 30 villages, each with its own quiet connection to nature and history.
From ancient woodlands to peaceful settlements, every corner of Salla breathes in harmony with its wild surroundings—old-growth forests stretch across gorges and highlands, while Ice Age-carved ridges and ravines lead to crystal-clear ponds. Well-marked hiking routes, complete with lean-tos and wilderness huts, invite peaceful pauses along the way.
Summer in Salla is defined by the magical midnight sun, lighting the landscape from early June to early July. As the days shorten, the forests turn golden, and berry and mushroom season begins, leading into the return of the Northern Lights. In September, crisp air and golden vistas make Salla’s trails ideal for all levels of hikers. Salla proudly carries the Sustainable Travel Finland label, a testament to the region’s commitment to preserving its unspoiled beauty.
Whether you seek silence or adventure, Salla offers unforgettable moments. Here are seven top experiences that capture the heart of Salla in summer and autumn.
1. Picnic Adventures in Finland’s Newest National Park
Established in 2022, Salla National Park is Finland’s newest national park and a true treasure of untouched wilderness. Its centuries-old forests stretch from deep gorge valleys to upland mires and highland ridges shaped by the Ice Age. Trails lead through mossy spruce forests, across eskers and ravines, and past crystal-clear ponds, ideal for quiet breaks or scenic picnic stops.
One of the most spectacular hikes is the Taivaantavoittelijan taival Trail which winds through beautiful spruce-dominated woods and up the slopes of Iso Pyhätunturi. From the viewing tower at the summit, panoramic views open out across the entire park.
For a more immersive day, the Pahanojankuru Trail showcases nearly all of Salla National Park’s most iconic features, from ancient pine woods to fell views and tranquil waters. The route includes upgraded resting spots such as wilderness huts, campfire shelters, and a designated Arctic phenomena observation site, perfect for a long day in the wild.
The Kolmiloukkonen trail is a scenic loop around a lake framed by steep eskers, pine woods and Ice Age formations. It includes two lean-to shelters and even a viewing platform that is accessible for many. Along the trail, you’ll also find the remains of an early 1900s logging cabin, a quiet reminder of Lapland’s forest heritage.
2. Witness Arctic Wonders from Nature Observation Points
Salla is one of the best places in Lapland to admire the magical midnight sun, vibrant autumn foliage, and dazzling northern lights. The region’s spectacular natural phenomena create unforgettable, atmospheric moments – especially when viewed from the specially designed, scenic arctic Nature Observation Points.
There are designated spots around Salla, each offering a different atmosphere and view. All of them feature the iconic “Salla – in the middle of nowhere” sign, making them great locations for a photo and a pause to soak in the surroundings.
Salla’s Nature Observation Points each offer a unique window into the northern sky. Just 4 km from Sallatunturi, Kaunisharju provides a peaceful roadside spot for daytime fell views or stargazing. At the summit of Sallatunturi, you can admire the midnight sun or autumn colours, with hammocks and a hut to rest in. Lake Keselmäjärvi is an accessible option, even with a pram, for viewing the northern lights from mid-August, while Tupien Jänkä, near Sallatunturin Tuvat, features a tranquil boardwalk through the marsh and a lean-to for enjoying a small fire as day turns to night.
These observation points are more than scenic spots. They’re places to slow down, breathe, and connect with the Arctic landscape in all its seasonal drama.
3. Hike Across the Arctic Circle
In Salla, the Arctic Circle passes through the remote village of Hautajärvi, marking the boundary between the Arctic and the Northern Temperate Zone. This symbolic latitude defines the edge of the midnight sun and polar night, and it quite literally cuts across the yard of the cozy Napapiiri Café, located at the Karhunkierros Visitor Centre.
Hautajärvi is more than just a geographical curiosity, it’s a true gateway to adventure. From here begins the Topsakantaival Trail, a 45-kilometre wilderness route leading to Sallatunturi. The varied trail winds through ancient forests, protected marshlands, and rolling fells shaped by Arctic weather. With numerous rest stops and campfire sites, it’s ideal for multi-day hikes. A highlight? Crossing the Arctic Circle on foot is an unforgettable moment.
The trail links Oulanka National Park, known for its dramatic canyons and Finland’s most iconic rapids, and Salla National Park, with its serene forests and crystal-clear ponds. Whether you’re hiking the full trail or just visiting Napapiiri Café for a taste of wilderness life, this part of Salla embodies Lapland at its most raw and remote.
For those starting a longer hike, Napapiiri Café offers more than just coffee. You can stay overnight in wilderness cabins, explore the Karhunkierros trail network, or simply pause and take a photo under the Arctic Circle sign before heading into the wild.
4. Experience the Wilderness With All Five Senses
Salla invites you to go beyond sightseeing and connect with nature on a deeper, sensory level. Its trails feature Sense Points, special spots that awaken sight, sound, taste, smell, and touch, encouraging you to slow down and feel the landscape. These are more than hiking routes—they’re immersive experiences that engage both body and mind.
Pause to listen to the Sound of Salla – the hush of the forest, the bubbling of a stream, or the whisper of wind on a fell. At places like Kylmähete, Pahakuru, and Pirttivaara, nature’s sounds take centre stage, inviting stillness.
Taste and smell the wilderness by sipping icy water from Sotka Spring or picking Arctic berries along the Ruuhitunturi route. Feel the chill of a mountain stream during an Arctic foot bath, or sink your feet into soft peat at a forest lean-to.
For deeper relaxation, try wilderness yoga at Hangasharju, breathe in some of the world’s cleanest air on the slopes of Sallatunturi, or simply rest in a hammock or rocking chair. These peaceful spots are scattered throughout the landscape- from the summit of the ski resort to lakes like Tammakkolampi and Keselmäjärvi.
5. Explore Nature – Guided Tours and Outdoor Adventures
Salla’s wild and beautiful landscapes offer endless ways to experience nature up close. During summer and autumn, you can join a range of guided and self-guided activities that bring you into the heart of Lapland’s wilderness.
Rent a bike and explore peaceful forest trails that wind through ridges, mires, and open fell views. With routes suitable for both mountain biking and leisurely rides, cycling is a great way to discover Salla’s diverse terrain at your own pace.
Or join a local guide for a hike to Pirttivaara, where you’ll learn about the local lifestyle, Lapland nature, and wildlife along the way. The slow pace lets you relax and absorb the silence of the wilderness. Once at the top, enjoy breathtaking views and share a snack while your guide brews traditional black pot coffee.
For something more adventurous, try a midnight canoe trip on Hangasjärvi lake. Paddle under the glow of the nightless night, learn fire-making skills, and grill sausages by the shore. Your guide will share stories of Lapland life and nature while you experience the pure calm of being truly in the middle of nowhere.
Animal lovers can take part in daily reindeer feeding trips in the vast Reindeer Park, where semi-wild reindeer roam freely across 200 hectares. Guided programs like the Kössi reindeer experience include storytelling, traditional snacks in a wilderness hut, and plenty of time to meet and photograph the animals.
6. Say “I Do” in the Middle of Nowhere
If you’ve ever dreamed of a truly unforgettable wedding, Salla might be the place. In Salla, couples can exchange vows at the top of a fell under the midnight sun, beside a tranquil lake framed by autumn colours, or beneath the northern lights in total Arctic silence. You can even arrive by reindeer sleigh or husky sled. Adding to the charm, Salla’s own mayor, also a lawyer, performs civil ceremonies as part of his mission to help couples celebrate love in the wilderness.
Romantic accommodations like Salla Wilderness Lodges, with panoramic windows and private hot tubs, or the peaceful Kuuru Lakeside Suites overlooking Lake Keselmäjärvi, offer ideal settings for a wedding night or honeymoon. There are also cottages for larger groups, cozy restaurants, and a full range of local services from photography to Arctic excursions to make your celebration truly one of a kind.
In Salla, your wedding isn’t just a ceremony—it’s an experience shared with nature, far from the rush of the world.
7. Give Back to Nature
Salla is committed to sustainable tourism and invites visitors to take part in a unique conservation initiative. Through a partnership with the Finnish Natural Heritage Foundation, you can help protect over 30 hectares of valuable forest by donating to a local nature compensation project.
Whether you’re supporting rewilding efforts or visiting the protected area yourself, this is a way to give back to the very landscape that makes Salla so unforgettable. Your green footprints help preserve these wild places for generations to come.
Getting to Salla – Closer Than You Think
Most accommodation and services are found around Sallatunturi Fell Area, just 10 km from the village of Salla. This is the base for guided tours, bike rentals, reindeer experiences, and easy access to marked hiking trails.
Despite its remote feel, Salla is easy to reach. The closest railway station is in Kemijärvi, around 75 km away, and you can get there by train and continue by bus. The nearest airports are in Kuusamo (110 km) and Rovaniemi (150 km), both with bus connections to Salla.
In Salla, nature isn’t just scenery, it’s the heart of every experience. Come for the silence, stay for the light, and leave with memories from the middle of nowhere.
