Kemihaara

Kemihaara is primarily known as a vast wilderness reserve located in Finnish Lapland, within the municipality of Savukoski. While historical references to a village or cadastral area named Kemihaara exist, it is not a conventional populated settlement. It serves as a gateway to the Kemihaara Wilderness Area and Urho Kekkonen National Park, with no permanent settlements or services within the reserve itself.

No, the Kemihaara Wilderness Area is characterized by its remote and pathless nature. There are no marked summer or winter trails. Visitors must possess strong navigation skills and be prepared for coping in the wild, as the terrain is demanding and unmarked.

The terrain in Kemihaara is diverse and challenging, featuring fells, rocky hills, large aapa mires (bogs), dense pine forests, and shady gorges. Hikers should expect varied conditions and be prepared for off-trail navigation. The central and southern parts include steep fells rising over 400 meters above sea level.

Kemihaara is renowned for its diverse and untamed wilderness. Notable features include the confluence of three rivers (Naltiohaara, Keskihaara, and Kemihaara) forming the Kemijoki, ancient old-growth forests (some over 200 years old), vast aapa mires, and numerous fells. The meandering tributaries create unique ecosystems with lush groves.

Access to Kemihaara is remote, with the main public road from Savukoski village ending at a parking area on the boundary with Urho Kekkonen National Park. Generally, no specific permits are required for hiking in the Kemihaara Wilderness Area, but visitors should always check for any updated regulations from Metsähallitus (Parks & Wildlife Finland) before their trip.

Kemihaara transforms into a snowy wonderland in winter, offering opportunities for experienced adventurers. However, due to the lack of marked trails and services, winter visits require advanced wilderness skills, self-sufficiency, and thorough preparation for extreme cold and deep snow conditions. Mobile network coverage is limited, adding to the challenge.

Kemihaara is generally not recommended for families with young children or those seeking easy, marked trails. Its remote, pathless, and challenging terrain is best suited for experienced and self-sufficient adventurers. There are no facilities or services, and navigation skills are crucial.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed in the Kemihaara Wilderness Area, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. This is crucial for protecting wildlife, especially during nesting seasons, and for respecting reindeer herding activities which are vital in the area.

There are no permanent settlements, services, cafes, or pubs within the Kemihaara Wilderness Reserve itself. The nearest services and accommodation would be in Savukoski village, approximately 107 km away. Within the reserve, there is one open wilderness hut and a reservable hut available in the southwest, requiring advance planning.

Mobile network coverage is limited or non-existent in many parts of the Kemihaara Wilderness Area. Visitors should not rely on their mobile phones for communication or navigation and should carry alternative means of communication and navigation tools, such as a satellite phone or GPS device.

Kemihaara's untamed wilderness is home to diverse wildlife. The area is important for reindeer herding, so you are likely to encounter reindeer. Other potential sightings include various bird species, small mammals, and possibly larger predators like bears or wolves, though these are rare and elusive. The ancient forests and mires provide rich habitats.

While Kemihaara offers numerous rivers and mires, specific regulations apply to activities like fishing. A fishing permit is generally required for angling and ice fishing, and specific rules may govern certain areas or species. Wild swimming is permitted, but visitors should be aware of the remote nature and potential hazards of cold, fast-flowing water. Always check current regulations from Metsähallitus.