What to do
Immerse yourself in the remote Scandinavian wilderness
What to see
Oulangan kanjoni is a steep-faced gorge. Splendid views open up from the edge of the canyon over wooded slopes, rock faces and the River Oulanka foaming below in the canyon. The scenery of the canyon is ranked among the finest sights of the national park. Oulanka canyon is also of interest because of its flora. The cliff faces are home to many rare plants such as mountain avens (Dryas octopetala) and arnica (Arnica). There is a suspension bridge crossing it.
Ristikallio cliffs are a rugged rock formation in the River Aventojoki. Ristikallio is one of the most famous viewpoints along the Karhunkierros Trail. The Ristikallio River Aventojoki, which flows between the cracks of the bedrock, switches from one crack to another. Ristikallio cliffs are in the shape of a cross.
There are many rapids, such as Jyrävä Rapids, part of the River Kitkajoki, which are unharnessed and have a drop of 9 metres. Taivalköngäs Rapids is a rocky set of rapids in the River Oulanka. Kiutaköngäs Rapids are 325 metres long. Aallokkokoski Rapids are swift rapids located in the River Kitka.
Rupakivi Rock is a 5 meter high rock rising from the middle of River Savinajoki. The peculiar shape of Rupakivi Rock has been formed by ice and water that have gouged out the rock over millenia.
The old watermill at Myllykoski used to grind barley and rye until the late 1940s. Today it serves as a rest hut for hikers with an open fireplace and scenic views of the Myllykoski Rapids.
What to do
Watch the flight of the golden eagle! There are several bird watching towers in the park. With more than 100 species breeding in the park, excitement is guaranteed!
Brave the wild Jyräva Rapids or float with your family along calmer waters and take photos of the breathtaking scenery. Canoes, kayaks, rowing boats and rafting guides can be hired at different locations in the park.
Scramble up the ice wall on Mount Karhu climbing tower and get prepared for your first real climb.
Mount a horse or rent a bike and explore the surroundings of Oulanka national park. There are no riding or cycling trails in the park itself but there are many opportunities in the surroundings.
Go ice-fishing on Oulanka’s frozen lakes or learn the traditional method of fly-fishing. Fishing permits are sold at Oulanka’s visitor centres.
Get the dogs up and running, release the brakes and watch the winter scenery fly by. A husky sled can reach a speed of 20 kilometres per hour. Husky tours are only offered outside the national park.
Enjoy the midnight sun at Oulanka’s lakes and rivers or search the sky for the awe-inspiring Northern Lights. The best time to spot these wonders is from November to March.
Follow the trail of the Arctic hare, elk, lynx or wolverine. The best chance to see them is in the evening or in the early morning.
Lace up your hiking boots and immerse yourself into the remote Scandinavian wilderness. There are hikes for all levels, ranging from one hour strolls to the famous “bear trek” lasting several days.Tent and campfire sites can be found en route.
Some hiking trails are also used as cross country and snow shoe trails in winter and are maintained on a weekly basis.
Cross country skiing is allowed in the park. Skiing on the slopes and snowboarding are only possible outside the national park. The towns of Kuusamo and Ruka, south of Oulanka, are well developed ski destinations. Salla, north of the park, on a smaller scale, attracts mainly families with young children.
Shake off winter’s chill in a traditional wood burning Finnish sauna.
Adventure tips
Oulanka National Park offers a wide variety of wilderness experiences. We collected those adventures that help you best experience PAN Parks wilderness.
Walking the Karhunkierros trail in Oulanka leads you through the wilderness area of the national park: a really special open mire area and also fabulous old growth-forests.
Local partner offering an activity related to this adventure:
North Trek
You have the chance to cross the stunning wilderness area of the national park when rafting on River Oulanka.
Local partner offering an activity related to this adventure:
Basecamp Oulanka
One of the most easily accessible but truly breathtaking highlights of the park: the 325-metre long rapids are near Oulanka Visitor Centre.
Husky safaris in Oulanka winter
Using this nature-friendly way of transport you can experience the sounds of nature and overnight in wilderness on several-day trips.
Local partner offering an activity related to this adventure:
Wilderness Wolf
Oulanka’s wilderness, its old-growth forests give home to many bird species: spot the majestic golden eagle or white-tailed eagle. The shores of its rivers also provide home for several bird species such as the grey wagtail or the white-throated dipper.
Local partner offering an activity related to this adventure:
Kuusamo Bird Touring
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