Adventure Collective
Gold Panning & Scenic Hike at Wilderness Hotel Muotka in Lapland - Saariselkä

Gold Panning & Scenic Hike at Wilderness Hotel Muotka in Lapland

Sodankylä

Difficulty

Duration

Fitness Level

Overview

Discover Lapland's gold heritage with panning and hiking at Wilderness Hotel Muotka. Uncover local stories and find your own treasure amid Finnish wilderness.

Sodankylä, Lappi

Tankavaara Goldrush

Tankavaara culture and history daytrip

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Adventure Photos

Tankavaara Goldrush photo 1

About This Adventure

Discover the rich gold heritage of Lapland with a visit to the unique Gold Museum in Tankavaara, followed by a scenic hike in Urho Kekkonen National Park. Experience the thrill of gold panning, where you can keep your finds, making this an unforgettable adventure for all ages and fitness levels.

*Did you know that Finland is the largest primary gold producer in Europe?

Time to dive into the lesser known culture and history of gold in Lapland.*


Duration

5 Hours incl. transfers


Rates

Adults - €180 Children 4-14 years - €126


About

We will take a short drive from the hotel to the nearby Goldvillage of Tankavaara.

We will take a visit to the Gold Museum which is the only international museum in the world displaying past and present of gold panning and prospecting.

Afterwards we will catch some fresh air during a short hike that leads us into a part of the Urho Kekkonen National Park. The trails are easy and we might be able to spot some wildlife.

A tasty soup-lunch at the local restaurant will give us new energy for our last activity of the day - Gold panning!

Gold prospectors have been searching for gold in Lapland for 150 years and in Tankavaara Gold Village, they still continue this unique culture by teaching the secrets of gold panning to visitors every year. They even borrow you all the equipment needed and you can keep all the gold you find!

Easy and suitable experience for all ages and fitness levels.


Includes

Transfers Guiding in English Entrance to the gold museum Guided gold panning incl. equipment (winter time indoors) Warm soup-lunch & drinks

Adventure Tips

Use the right tools

Bring or borrow a gold pan and shovel for an authentic panning experience.

Dress for the outdoors

Wear sturdy shoes, layered clothing, and waterproof gear to stay comfortable in any weather.

Stay mindful of wildlife

Keep a safe distance from animals like reindeer and respect their habitat.

Check weather conditions

Ensure clear skies and dry ground for the best outdoor experience.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Reindeer
  • Ptarmigan

History

Tankavaara’s gold rush began in the late 19th century, drawing prospectors seeking Finland’s hidden mineral treasures.

Conservation

Efforts focus on preserving the pristine wilderness by promoting sustainable tourism and responsible activity in the national park.

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Adventure Hotspots in Saariselkä

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Waterproof hiking boots

Essential

Keeps your feet dry and provides good traction on rocky or wet terrain.

spring;fall;winter specific

Warm layered clothing

Essential

Adjust layers to stay comfortable in variable weather conditions, especially during outdoor pursuits.

fall;winter;spring specific

Headlamp or flashlight

Essential

Illuminates your pathway during shorter daylight hours or late-evening activities.

winter;spring;fall specific

Gold panning kit

Includes pan, shovel, and clasp to enhance your authentic gold prospecting experience.