If you take a walk through a Finnish forest these days, you might hear the distinctive sound of a flying disc hitting chains. That’s because disc golf, once a niche hobby, has quickly become one of Finland’s fastest-growing sports — and arguably a new national pastime.
A Sport That Fits the Finnish Lifestyle
Finland is a country known for its deep connection with nature. From mushroom foraging to forest hikes and lake swims, outdoor life isn’t just recreation here — it’s a way of life. Disc golf slides seamlessly into this cultural pattern.
Unlike traditional golf, which requires manicured fairways and pricey club memberships, disc golf can be played almost anywhere. Most courses are located in public parks or forests, and nearly all of them are free to use. This makes the sport accessible, affordable, and environmentally friendly, which checks a lot of boxes for the average Finn.
It also aligns with the Finnish love of quiet, solo-friendly activities. While you can absolutely play disc golf with friends, it’s also perfectly suited to playing alone — something many people in Finland appreciate.
Why Is It So Popular in Finland?
- Accessibility & Low Cost: You only need a few discs to get started, and they’re relatively cheap. Combine that with free-to-use public courses, and you have a sport that almost anyone can try without spending much money.
- Courses Are Everywhere: Finland has the most disc golf courses per capita in the world. As of 2025, there are over 1,000 courses scattered across the country.
- Good for All Ages: Disc golf is a low-impact sport, making it accessible to children, older adults, and everyone in between. It’s also easy to learn.
- Community & Competitions: Many cities and towns have local clubs, and Finland even hosts international tournaments like the European Open in Nokia.
Professional Players & Global Recognition
Finland has produced some of the world’s top disc golf talent. Seppo Paju and Väinö Mäkelä are just two names that regularly appear in international leaderboards. Their success has helped fuel national pride and inspired a younger generation to take the sport seriously.
The Finnish media also covers disc golf more than you might expect. Major tournaments are sometimes shown on national TV or streamed online, and Finnish YouTubers dedicated to disc golf have gained large followings.
Disc Golf in Schools and Youth Programmes
Many schools now include disc golf as part of their physical education curriculum. It’s also promoted through municipal youth programs, giving kids exposure to the sport early on.
Some municipalities even have disc golf courses designed specifically for children and families, further encouraging active, outdoor lifestyles from a young age.
Environmental & Cultural Fit
Disc golf courses require little infrastructure, and most are designed to blend in with the natural landscape. This aligns well with Finland’s environmental values and strong emphasis on preserving natural spaces.
You’ll often find disc golf baskets placed among tall pines, lakeside clearings, or rugged hills — giving players a chance to enjoy the scenery while playing.
A Trend That’s Here to Stay
The rise of disc golf in Finland shows no sign of slowing down. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or someone just looking for a relaxing way to spend time outside, disc golf offers something for everyone.
If you’re visiting Finland or even thinking of moving there, don’t be surprised if someone hands you a disc and invites you to the local course. You might just fall in love with this surprisingly addictive and peaceful pastime.
Takeaway
Disc golf is more than a sport in Finland — it’s a reflection of national values: simplicity, nature, accessibility, and quiet joy. It may not yet have the status of ice hockey, but it’s well on its way to becoming a new national pastime.