The park supports a diverse array of wildlife typical of Finland's boreal forests. Large mammals include moose, lynx, and occasional visits from brown bears. The old-growth forest provides crucial habitat for numerous woodpecker species, including the rare white-backed woodpecker. The park is also home to the Siberian flying squirrel, various owl species, and numerous forest grouse. The decaying wood supports a rich variety of insects, including several rare beetle species that depend on old-growth forest conditions.
Pyhä-Häkki's old-growth forest is dominated by towering Scots pines, some over 400 years old and reaching heights of 35 meters. The understory features a rich mix of Norway spruce, birch, and aspen. The forest floor is carpeted with bilberry and lingonberry shrubs, while numerous rare moss and lichen species thrive on dead wood. The park is particularly notable for its extensive populations of hanging tree lichens, indicators of pristine forest conditions. Several rare and endangered plant species find refuge here, including various orchids and ancient forest indicator species.
The park's landscape was shaped by the last ice age, which ended approximately 10,000 years ago. The terrain consists of gently rolling hills and rocky outcrops, with glacial erratics scattered throughout the landscape. The bedrock is primarily composed of ancient granite and gneiss, typical of the Fennoscandian Shield. Soil in the park is generally thin and nutrient-poor, which has contributed to the preservation of the old-growth forest by making the area less attractive for historical agricultural development.
Pyhä-Häkki National Park was established in 1956 to protect one of Finland's most pristine old-growth forest areas. The region has a rich cultural history dating back centuries, with local folklore suggesting the area held spiritual significance for ancient Finnish people. The name 'Pyhä' means sacred in Finnish, reflecting this heritage. The park's forests have remained largely untouched by commercial forestry, making it an invaluable reference point for understanding Finland's natural forest ecosystems. Traditional slash-and-burn agriculture was practiced in some areas until the early 20th century, leaving subtle traces still visible today.
The park's most remarkable feature is its old-growth forest, containing some of Finland's oldest and largest trees. The Mastopetäjä Trail leads to an impressive ancient pine known as the 'Master Pine,' estimated to be over 400 years old. The park's network of marked trails includes duckboard paths through wetlands and viewing platforms offering panoramic forest vistas. The Kotajärvi day-use area provides facilities for visitors, including a campfire site and shelter. During winter, the park's trails are excellent for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, offering visitors a chance to experience the pristine snow-covered forest landscape.
Pyhä-Häkki experiences a typical Finnish continental climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below -20°C, while summers are mild with average temperatures around 15-20°C. The park receives significant precipitation throughout the year, with late summer and autumn being particularly wet. Spring thaw typically occurs in April, and the first snowfall arrives in November. The park's dense old-growth forest creates a unique microclimate that helps moderate temperature extremes and maintains higher humidity levels compared to surrounding areas.
Finland
62.8330°, 25.4830°
1956
13
Pyhä-Häkki National Park preserves one of Finland's few remaining old-growth forests. The park features ancient pine trees, some over 400 years old, and pristine forest ecosystems. It offers visitors a glimpse into what Finnish forests looked like centuries ago.