Three-Country Cairn Guide
Three-Country Cairn: Stand at the Crossroads of Scandinavia Guide
Imagine standing in three countries at once! The Three-Country Cairn (Treriksröset in Swedish, Treriksrøysa in Norwegian, and Kolmen valtakunnan rajapyykki in Finnish) marks the point where Finland, Sweden, and Norway meet. This unique monument, a bright yellow concrete cairn, offers a fascinating glimpse into the shared history and geography of Scandinavia. It's a must-see for anyone visiting Kilpisjärvi and a truly memorable photo opportunity. The original cairn was built in 1897 by Norway and Russia (then ruling Finland). Sweden joined the agreement in 1901. The current concrete cairn was erected in 1926. Because the exact point is in a lake, the cairn is built on an artificial island. The area surrounding the cairn is a protected nature reserve, emphasizing the importance of preserving this unique geographical landmark. The primary activity is, of course, visiting the cairn itself! You can reach it by hiking, boat, or even snowmobile in winter. The most common route is a boat trip from Kilpisjärvi followed by a short hike (approximately 3 km each way). Several tour operators in Kilpisjärvi offer boat trips to the cairn. Alternatively, you can hike the entire distance (approximately 11 km each way) through challenging but rewarding terrain. There are no specific culinary traditions associated with the cairn itself, but pack a picnic to enjoy the stunning scenery.
Transportation
The most common way to reach the Three-Country Cairn is by boat from Kilpisjärvi. Several tour operators offer boat trips during the summer months. Alternatively, you can hike the entire distance (approximately 11 km each way) from Kilpisjärvi. In winter, snowmobile tours are also available. Check with local tour operators for schedules and pricing.