Oulanka National Park

Introducing Oulanka National Park

This is one of the most visited national parks in Finland, thanks mainly to the 80km Karhunkierros Trail (Bear’s Ring), a spectacular three- or four-day trek through rugged cliffs, gorges and suspension bridges, starting from either the Hautajärvi Visitor Centre or the Ristikallio parking area and ending at the resort village of Ruka, 25km north of Kuusamo.

There are shelters and free overnight huts on the trail. The Rukatunturi-Oulanka map (1:40,000) has trail and hut information.

Juuma is another gateway to the region, with accommodation and accessibility to some of the main sights, such as the Myllykoski and Jyrävä waterfalls. If you don’t have the time or resources for the longer walk, you can do the 12km Little Bear’s Ring from Juuma in around four hours. The trail starts at Lomakylä Retkietappi (863 218), where there are camp sites and cabins.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009