The hiking trails of Oulanka National Park take you to stunning natural attractions.
In the rugged landscapes of Oulanka, visitors can witness the timeless power of water. Many trails and numerous suspension bridges lead hikers to the greatest rapids in Finland. Karhunkierros hiking trail, which is as old as the National Park, runs through the park. The flowing waters of the meandering Oulankajoki River offer paddlers plenty to see.
- Perhaps the highest biodiversity in the Finnish National Parks
- The natural and cultural landscapes of the Oulankajoki River are one of Finland’s heritage landscapes
- River valleys and canyons add variety to the landscape
- Exciting rapids and waterfalls
- Plenty of hiking trails and campsites
- Visitor Centre and hiking advice
Activities and trails
Experience the beautiful River Oulankajoki by canoeing.
Feel the thrill of snowshoeing in the pine forests and on the riversides covered by snow.
What else is there to see
Bird watching, trail running, cross-country skiing, photography, fishing, mountain biking, winter biking, packraft, whitewater paddling, berry and mushroom picking, geocaching
Nature of Oulanka National Park
Hikers will be surprised by the natural diversity in Oulanka National Park. High cliffs give way to mires and soft sandy beaches to lush forests.
Nature at the siteVisitor's checklist
The National Park is a nature reserveEveryman’s Right are not valid as such in national parks.
Camp only at permitted camping sitesCamping is only permitted in the immediate vicinity of designated rest and campfire sites, and huts.
You are allowed to camp freely in the aapa mire area in the northern part of the national park.
In the area of Kitkanniemi, locals are also allowed to camp temporarily – when fishing – in other places than at the marked camping sites.
Make campfires only in designated sitesDuring a wildfire warning, making fires is prohibited.
In the aapa mire part of the national park, making a campfire is allowed – in addition to at the maintained campfire sites – on shores, using branches or twigs that lie on the ground, or other low-value wood.
Remember to bring a trash bagThere is no recycling point in the area. Bring a trash bag and take the trash with you.
Always keep pets on a leashDog waste should be cleaned away from the paths.
Be prepared for areas with limited or no mobile network coverageRemember to take a paper map and compass.
There are movement restrictions in the areaGet to know the park's restricted areas on the Instructions and Rules page.