A full-day hike from Rovaniemi to Lampivaara brings you across old forests and bogs to a working amethyst mine on a felltop—learn geology, search for your own gem, and finish with an open-fire snack.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You climb out of the bus and the air changes—clean, cold and sharp even in midsummer, carrying the scent of pine and wet peat. Ahead, a rounded fell rolls away: low, wind-smitten hills that have been weathered into smooth shoulders. The trail threads through old spruce and over boardwalks across sphagnum bogs, then steepens. By the time you crest the ridge, the forest pulls back and the horizon opens, a pale Arctic plain that makes a day feel longer. At the top is Lampivaara, the only amethyst mine in Finland where visitors still scratch the soil for a lucky purple stone.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6–8 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness; able to hike 10–12 km over uneven terrain with some elevation gain
Wildlife
History
Lampivaara’s amethyst site has been mined intermittently through the 20th century and now operates mainly as an educational tourist mine explaining local geology and mining traditions.
Conservation
The fell and bog habitats are fragile; stay on trails, avoid disturbing reindeer, and carry out all waste to protect slow-recovering vegetation.
Reserve your spot on the Hiking Trip to the Amethyst Mine today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Wear grippy, broken-in boots
Trail sections include roots, rocks and bog-board crossings—sturdy footwear reduces slips and foot fatigue.
Bring rain layers
Weather on the fells can change rapidly; a light waterproof shell and pack cover keep you comfortable.
Hydrate and bring snacks
Although a snack is provided, carry water and your preferred energy food for the hike segments.
Respect vegetation
Stay on marked trails—alpine and peatland plants recover slowly; trampling causes long-term damage.
Waterproof hiking boots
Provide ankle support and traction on rocky, wet and boggy sections.
Waterproof shell jacket
Protects against sudden rain and wind on exposed felltops.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Daypack (20–30L)
Carry layers, water, lunch, and any found amethyst safely.
Insulating midlayer
Keeps you warm on cool summits and during early/late-season tours.
spring|fall|winter