Located in the northernmost part of Finland, Saana Fell is a captivating destination for those seeking a memorable hiking experience in Lapland. Situated near the border of Sweden and Norway, Saana rises to an elevation of 1,029 meters above sea level, offering panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. The trail to the summit is accessible, making it an ideal choice for hikers of various skill levels. For the best experience, consider hiking this trail during the summer nights when the sun never fully sets, creating an ethereal atmosphere at the top.
About the Saana Hiking Trail
- Distance: 4 km one way (8 km round trip)
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Duration: Approximately 4 hours (with plenty of time for photo stops)
The Saana trail is an easy-to-follow path that takes you through diverse landscapes, including picturesque forests, rocky terrain, and sweeping views of the surrounding area. The hike rewards you with beautiful vistas of Kilpisjärvi Lake, as well as the mountains of Finland, Sweden, and Norway.
Starting Point: Kilpisjärvi
The trailhead begins at Kilpisjärvi Retkeilykeskus (Kilpisjärvi Hiking Center), which is also a great place to stay during your visit. We opted to rent a cozy cottage from the center, and it was a perfect base for our adventure. The cottage had all the essentials, including two beds, a kitchen, and a bathroom with hot water. Keep in mind that bed linens and towels are not included, so make sure to arrange them ahead of time. Booking is easy through platforms like Booking.com.
Our Hike on the Saana Trail
The hike to Saana’s summit is straightforward and can be divided into four main sections.
First Section: The trail begins by weaving through an unusual forest with wooden planks to help guide you along. The path is clear, and it’s easy to enjoy the scenery as you make your way deeper into the forest.
Second Section: This part is a little steeper and more demanding, but it’s still manageable for most hikers. During our visit, there were ongoing construction projects to add stairs to this section, but they weren’t quite finished. While the path here is a bit eroded and sandy, it’s easy to step off the main trail onto the grass for better footing. This section can be tricky when descending, so it’s best to take extra caution.
Third Section: After the steeper part, the trail transitions into rocky terrain. This section is stable and easy to navigate, providing plenty of traction for hikers. Keep an eye out for reindeer grazing along the path, as they are common in the area. It’s a photographer’s dream here, so if you have a telephoto lens, bring it along—you’ll want to capture the spectacular mountain views that unfold before you.
As you climb higher, the trail opens up, and you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape, including Kilpisjärvi Lake and the distant peaks of Sweden and Norway.
Final Section: The last stretch of the hike is an easy, steady walk that leads you to the summit of Saana. The view from the top is well worth the effort, with the pristine waters of Saanajärvi (Saana Lake) below. Don’t forget to sign your name in the summit box—it’s a tradition for hikers who reach the top.
A Truly Unique Experience
Saana Fell is one of the most stunning hiking spots in Finland. From the summit, you can see all three countries—Finland, Norway, and Sweden—at once. If you hike during the summer months, the midnight sun adds an extra layer of magic to the experience, as the sun never sets completely. If you’re visiting Lapland in summer, I highly recommend adjusting your schedule to sleep during the day and hike at night. This way, you’ll get to enjoy the spectacular golden light over the mountains, making your hike even more memorable.
In conclusion, the Saana hiking trail is an accessible and rewarding adventure for nature lovers and hikers of all levels. Whether you’re chasing stunning views or simply soaking in the tranquility of Lapland, this trail offers a perfect escape into the wilderness.
