Nuuksio National Park (Nuuksion kansallispuisto), established in 1994, spreads across a rugged lake upland in Espoo about 30 km northwest of Helsinki. Its patchwork of more than 80 lakes and ponds, spruce forest and glacier-carved rocky hills makes it the capital region's most accessible slice of wilderness, and it is a well-known refuge of the Siberian flying squirrel. In 2026 entry remains free, and the all-wood ecological visitor centre Haltia serves as the main gateway for a half- or full-day visit. Easily reached by public transport as a day trip from Helsinki, it is a favourite nature add-on to a city break.
Haukkalampi pond loop — the park's classic entrance, with mirror-still water, boardwalks and rocky lookouts
Finnish Nature Centre Haltia — an award-winning all-wood eco building with exhibitions, a viewpoint and a restaurant, gateway to all 40 national parks
Lake upland landscape — 80-plus lakes and ponds threaded through spruce forest and glacier-smoothed rock ridges
Siberian flying squirrel habitat — the park's emblematic species; watch for signs in the quiet forest at dawn
Four-season outdoors — summer hiking and canoeing, autumn 'ruska' foliage with berries and mushrooms, winter snowshoeing and cross-country skiing
Good to know
SeasonIn summer (Jun–Aug) mosquitoes are plentiful and ticks (which can carry TBE/Lyme) are present, so wear long clothing and repellent. Around midsummer the 'white nights' keep it bright after dark, so an eye mask helps you sleep; in Sep–Oct the ruska foliage peaks but daylight shortens fast.
SafetyWet granite and moss get very slippery, so wear grippy waterproof footwear. Phone signal is weak in the forest, so download an offline map, carry water and snacks, and head back before dusk.
RulesCampfires are allowed only at designated fire sites (e.g. Haukkalampi) and are completely banned during a wildfire warning (metsäpalovaroitus). Camp and cook only at marked spots and don't damage trees or moss — though picking berries and mushrooms is allowed under 'everyone's rights.'
MannersCarry out all your rubbish, as there are no bins in the park. Keep noise down so you don't disturb wildlife such as the flying squirrel, and keep dogs on a leash.
CautionPark entry is free, so be wary if anyone charges an 'entrance fee.' Nearby reindeer parks, husky rides and saunas are separate paid private operators unrelated to the park — check bookings and prices in advance, and pay for transport only via the official HSL app or card.
SeasonIn winter (roughly Nov–Mar) bus 245A does not run to Kattila and terminates at Nuuksionpää; the summer Kattila service runs only about mid-April to mid-October, so always check the current season and timetable.
Practical info
From Helsinki Central, take a commuter train to Espoo station (about 30 min), then bus 245/245A toward Haltia and Haukkalampi (about 25–30 min); an HSL ticket is required (check current zones and timetable). Entry to the park is free, but Haltia's exhibitions are ticketed and opening hours vary by season, so confirm the latest details on the official pages before you go.
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