Paljakanvaara

Paljakanvaara is a fell located in Lapland, Finland. It is situated approximately 340 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle, near the municipality of Muonio. Paljakanvaara stands at an elevation of 449 meters above sea level above the surrounding terrain. The fell is covered in a diverse range of tree species, including Scots pine, black spruce, and willow, in addition to low-growing shrubs and moss.

Geologically, Paljakanvaara is part of the Scandinavian Caledonides mountain range, which was formed as a result of tectonic activity during the Caledonian orogeny around 480 million years ago. The fell is composed primarily of gneiss, a type of metamorphic rock that forms from the high-pressure transformation of granite.

The name Paljakanvaara is of Finnish origin, with "palja" referring to the fell turf or rocky areas, and "ka" being a place name suffix. It is situated in the Western Fennoscandian fell region, which represents the northernmost extension of the Scandinavian mountain range.

The terrain around Paljakanvaara is varied and includes areas of peat bogs and lake-filled valleys, as well as other subarctic landscapes. As part of the Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park, the area provides a habitat for various Finnish flora and fauna, including species such as reindeer, flying squirrels, and wolverines. The environment surrounding Paljakanvaara is sensitive and protected to preserve the local ecosystems and natural heritage.