Nuuksio National Park

Nuuksio is one of Finland´s national park, located in Espoo, South Finland, approx. 20 km outside of Helsinki. A portion of it is part of the Kirkkonummi district and the total size of the park is 23,8 square km. Its Swedish name is Noux and was known already in the 1500:ds. The name is believed to be derived from the old Samish word njukča, which means swan.

The most common forest type in Nuuksio is fresh “kangasmetsä”, a type of forest of a cool climate zone, coniferous forest, or taiga. The unique landscape is characterised by steep-edged valleys with broken bedrock and at the bottom swamps and lakes as well as high rocks. Due to its southern location and variating surface shapes, the terrain is very mosaic-like.

The vegetation ranges from lush meadows and dark stream valleys to blueberry-dominated forests, and dry pine-growing lichen areas. It has a somewhat difficult terrain for walking and has therefore remained relatively untouched. Therefore, some rare species of plants and animals are found, including the flying squirrel. This species is also in the national parks symbol.

There are several lakes in the area. At the shores of Haukkalampi and Mustalampi lakes there are places for campfires. Where it is possible to grill food. Nuuksio offers a unique Finnish nature experience not far away from Helsinki.