Kalevalsky National Park: forests, lakes and traditional livelihoods
Western taiga and programmes about the landscape and the people who lived in it.
The park and the settlement
The park’s name can be confused with the settlement of Kalevala. They are different destinations, and access to a chosen trail must be planned separately from visiting the settlement. The park and Kostomukshsky reserve share an official website. Confirm where your programme starts and how to reach it before choosing accommodation.
The forest as a working landscape
The Bog Iron programme explores the extraction and smelting of bog ore. It reveals a history of work within today’s forest: where raw materials were found, what skills were needed and how production related to settlement. Natural and historical questions complement each other, extending the walk beyond identifying plants.
Walking in different seasons
The administration lists forest programmes including the Shamans’ Trail and snowshoe options on some routes. Winter changes pace, clothing, daylight and guiding needs. Stories and legends are part of the guide’s interpretation and should not automatically be treated as established archaeological conclusions.
Visiting and preparation
National park rules differ from reserve rules. The possibility of an independent visit does not remove permit requirements or restrictions. Check current conditions for the specific trail, and bring an offline map, spare clothing and enough food. Voknavolok and Kostomuksha offer complementary perspectives on western Karelia.
Location
Reference coordinates: 64.9917, 30.2125
Reference point on an overview map. It is not an approach track, landing site or confirmation of access. Check the actual entrance with the host organisation.
Show on map ↗Visitor impressions
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By interests
Explore further
Kostomuksha
A city in the north-west of the republic, close to natural areas.
NatureKostomukshsky Nature Reserve
Protected nature in western Karelia and guided encounters with the forest.
CultureVoknavolok
A western Karelian village where cultural heritage remains connected to everyday life.
Sources and verification
Sources checked: . Check the applicable conditions before travelling.