Ruunaa Recreation AreaThings to do

Things to do in Ruunaa Recreation Area

  1. Ruunaan Koskikierros

    Around the river system, and over two beautiful suspension bridges, runs Ruunaan Koskikierros, a marked 29km loop along good pitkospuu paths. If you have more time, there are another 20km of side trips you can take. If you start at the Naarajoki bridge, you will have to walk 5km along the Bear's Trail to reach the Ruunaan koskikierros trail. Another 3.3km brings you to the Neitikoski, where you'll find commercial services. Neitikoski also has road access and a parking area.

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  2. Ruunaa

    Ruunaa, just 30km northeast of Lieksa, is an outdoorsy mecca east of Lake Pielinen. It boasts 38km of waterways with six whitewater rapids, plus unpolluted wilderness, excellent trekking paths and good fishing. Designated camp sites (with fire rings) are also provided and maintained. Keep your eyes peeled as the area is home to otters, deer and, sometimes, bears.

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  3. Ruunaa Nature Centre

    Ruunaa Nature Centre is near the bridge over the Naarajoki, where most boat trips start. There are exhibitions, maps, a library and a free English slideshow. It’s a good place to research rafting operators and hiking trails.

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  4. Karhunpolku

    The Karhunpolku, a longer trekking route, passes through Ruunaa. You can find it just 50m north of the Naarajoki bridge. The path is marked with round orange symbols on trees.

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  5. Karelia Expert

    Karelia Expert in Lieksa can line you up with an operator for a boat trip through the rapids. Transport can also be arranged from Lieksa if you book a tour.

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  6. Erästely

    Erästely organizes canoeing expeditions from the Nature Centre, and has several other self-guided routes available. You will need to book in advance.

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  7. Lieksan Koskikierros

    Boat trips. Departs 11:00, noon and 15:30; wooden boat or electric-powered boat.

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  8. Lieksan Matkakaverit

    Boat trips. Departures at 11:00, 11:30, noon and 12:30, wooden and rubber boats.

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  9. Lieksan Retkiaitta

    Lieksan Retkiaitta is a place to hire fishing equipment.

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  10. Koski-Jaako

    Boat trips. Noon departure; wooden boat. Rubber boat also available.

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