The purpose of this thesis was to examine how geographical information can be utilized in nature tourism planning. The research will assess the suitability of geographical information in respect to the ecological value and carrying capacity of hiking routes. In co-operation with OUTDOORS FINLAND SOUTH project a classification of routes, a product card and GPS-route track were accomplished during this study. The thesis explains how outdoor routes can be classified effectively with geographical information and how it can be used to identify ecologically valuable locations. The thesis also studies how geographical information is suitable for designing outdoor routes.

The theoretical background of this thesis is a socio-ecological classification developed in Vaaka-project by Forest Research Institute. It and other sources were used, where applicable, to classify ecological value of the outdoor routes. GPS-route track data was collected from outdoor routes and used as spatial analysis material. Further ecologic spatial data sets were collected from various public or other organizations.

Based on the research it can be stated that it is possible to use geographical information to determine the ecological value and the carrying capacity of outdoor routes. The research shows, based on ecological classification, that the example routes are suitable for light nature tourism. It is possible to recognize the ecologically valuable areas, durable areas and also locations which are unsuitable for nature tourism.

However, the method involves a number of challenges. Geographical information cannot completely replace the traditional nature surveys. The biggest challenges relate to restrictions on the ecological spatial data sets, as well as the fragmentation of knowledge. Looking ahead, geographical information data should be free for mass use. It should be possible to determine the minimum of information of the geographical information database to improve the reliability of the results.