understanding finnish nature

Elonkierto Park is a place where you can explore Finnish nature, agriculture, and food production in a safe and enjoyable way. Visiting the park is always free of charge. This page is designed especially for visitors who are new to Finland and its natural environment.

Everyone’s Right (Freedom to Roam)

In Finland, nature is open to everyone. This is called “Everyones Right” (jokaisenoikeudet). It means that you are allowed to:

Walk, hike, bike, ski and enjoy nature freely
Pick wild berries, mushrooms and non-protected plants where ever you find them
Swim in lakes, fish with rod (no reel fishing without permit)

However, there are also important rules:

Do not enter private yards or cultivated fields
Do not damage plants, trees, or crops, do not pick up moss
Do not disturb animals or people
Do not litter – always take your trash with you
Do not light an open fire (campfire or with camping stove) without landowner’s permission. During a forest fire warning, lighting a fire is always prohibited.

Respecting nature and others is an essential part of Finnish culture.

Safety in Finnish Nature

Finnish nature is generally very safe, but there are a few important things to remember:

Do not eat anything you cannot clearly identify. Some mushrooms and plants can be poisonous.
Stay on marked paths when possible
Dress according to the weather – conditions can change quickly
In summer, protect yourself from ticks and insects
In winter, be careful of ice and cold temperatures

Nature and Wellbeing

Spending time in nature is an important part of life in Finland. Research shows that being in nature can:

Reduce stress and improve mood
Help you relax and recover from daily life
Support physical health through walking and movement

Even a short visit to the forest or park can make you feel better. You do not need special skills – just being outside is enough.

Finnish Agriculture and Food Production

Elonkierto also introduces visitors to Finnish agriculture and how food is produced. In Elonkierto you can learn how food grows, how farms operate, and how nature and agriculture are connected. Each of the information boards in the park also have an summary in English.

Food production in Finland aims to be safe, high-quality, and environmentally responsible. In Finland:

Farms are often family-owned
The growing season is short due to the northern climate
Farmers focus on sustainability and animal welfare
Common products include grains (like oats and barley), potatoes, vegetables, milk, and meat