Retkelijät

Retkelijät is a Finnish term referring to people who undertake long-distance hiking or trekking, usually spreading over several days. They travel by foot with a backpack, carrying shelter, food, and navigational gear, and they frequently move between huts, shelters, or camping sites along established routes or self-planned itineraries. The activity emphasizes self-sufficiency, route planning, and immersion in varied landscapes, from forests to fells and lakes.

In Finland, retkelijät practice is part of a broader outdoor recreation tradition. Citizens benefit from jokamiehenoikeudet, the Everyman’s Rights, which allow access to most land for recreation, subject to obligations to protect nature and property. Hikers typically prepare for rapidly changing weather, use topographic maps or digital tools, and adhere to safety guidelines to minimize risks in remote terrain.

Communities and organizations support the activity. Outdoor associations such as Suomen Latu provide training, safety recommendations, and guided treks, while volunteer networks maintain trail shelters and mark routes. Environmental responsibility is central: practitioners follow Leave No Trace principles, avoid disturbing wildlife, and pack out waste.

Retkelijät contribute to nature appreciation, rural economies near popular routes, and the preservation of wilderness skills. The practice reflects Nordic outdoor traditions emphasizing resilience, preparedness, and respect for natural environments.