Top 15 Lakes in Pallas-Yllästunturin Kansallispuisto

Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park features several beautiful lakes. Kemiöjärvi Lake offers a wilderness feel and is suitable for swimming, with an open cabin nearby. Pallasjärvi Lake, the largest in the park, is known for its clear waters, the red sand beach Punainenhiekka, and is ideal for paddling. Lake Kesänkijärvi in the Ylläs area is popular for its scenic circuit trail and stunning views of Yllästunturi Kellostapuli.

Yes, several areas are great for families. Lake Kesänkijärvi features the easy 3.5-mile (5.6 km) Kesänkijärvi Circle Trail, which is suitable for leisurely hikes. Varkaankuru Waterfall also includes a small lake and a popular resting area, making it a pleasant spot for families. The trail around Lake Kesänkijärvi, known as Hillapolku, is even suitable for individuals with disabilities when accompanied by an assistant.

The lakes provide excellent opportunities for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy paddling on Pallasjärvi Lake, especially on calm days, or canoeing on Lake Kesänkijärvi for an unforgettable experience. Hiking is very popular, with trails like the Kesänkijärvi Circle Trail and routes leading to viewpoints such as the View of a fell reflected in a lake. For more structured routes, explore the easy hikes guide or the cycling guide for the region.

Yes, some lakes are suitable for swimming. Kemiöjärvi Lake is noted as suitable for a refreshing dip. Pallasjärvi Lake has crystal clear, though cold, water and a beautiful red sand beach called Punainenhiekka where you can walk far into the shallow water.

There are camping opportunities available, such as the Camping opportunity right by the lake, which offers a large green area, toilet house, fireplace, and firewood. Additionally, the Pyhäjärvi Wilderness Hut provides an open wilderness hut setting next to a lake, though it can be busy, so bringing a tent is advisable if planning to stay overnight.

The lakes are set amidst diverse natural landscapes. You'll encounter fells, forests, and exceptionally clean air. Distinctive features include the red sand beach Punainenhiekka at Pallasjärvi Lake, and the picturesque Varkaankuru Waterfall. Many lakes offer stunning reflections of the surrounding fells, providing excellent photographic opportunities.

The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Summer and early autumn offer pleasant conditions for hiking, paddling, and enjoying the clear waters. Autumn, in particular, can be magical with mist veiling the landscape, as described for canoeing on Lake Kesänkijärvi. Be aware that Pallasjärvi Lake can be susceptible to strong winds, which can affect paddling conditions.

Yes, there are several easy trails. The Kesänkijärvi Circle Trail around Lake Kesänkijärvi is an easy 3.5-mile (5.6 km) path. Another option is the easy hikes guide which includes routes like the Vatikurun Nature Trail and the Varkaankuru Kota (Grill Hut) loop.

Visitors frequently appreciate the wilderness feel, clear waters, and scenic beauty. Many enjoy the opportunity for refreshing dips in lakes like Kemiöjärvi Lake and the stunning reflections of fells in calm waters, as seen from viewpoints like the View of a fell reflected in a lake. The peaceful atmosphere and well-maintained trails also contribute to a positive experience.

Absolutely. The national park is renowned for its reflective lake views. A popular spot is the View of a fell reflected in a lake, where the trail opens up to a clear view of a fell mirrored in a calm lake. Lake Kesänkijärvi also offers stunning views, particularly of Yllästunturi Kellostapuli.

Pallasjärvi Lake is notable for being the largest in the park, featuring the distinctive red sand beach Punainenhiekka. Lake Kesänkijärvi is highlighted for its accessibility and the scenic circuit trail around it. Kemiöjärvi Lake stands out for its wilderness feel despite being less than an hour's walk from parking, and it includes an open cabin on its shore.