Oulanka National Park: The Complete Hiking and Snowshoeing Guide

TL;DR: Oulanka National Park, near Ruka-Kuusamo in north-eastern Finland, is one of the country's most rewarding places to walk. In the green season it offers boardwalked river trails and the famous Karhunkierros (Bear's Ring); in winter the same landscape becomes a hushed world of snow-laden spruce, best explored on snowshoes. With the right clothing and a little planning, it suits both first-time walkers and seasoned trekkers.

Why Oulanka is worth the trip

Oulanka protects a stretch of rushing rivers, sandy riverbanks, gorges and old-growth forest right up against the Russian border. It is best known for the Karhunkierros trail, one of Finland's signature long-distance routes, but you do not need days and a heavy pack to enjoy it. Shorter loops let you sample the suspension bridges, rapids and pine ridges in a few hours.

The park works in every season, and each has a very different character:

• Summer (roughly June–August): long daylight, wildflowers, and the Midnight Sun lighting the trails late into the evening.
• Autumn (September–October): the celebrated ruska colours, crisp air and quieter paths.
• Winter (roughly December–March): deep snow, frozen rapids and superb snowshoeing under skies that often carry the Northern Lights.

The main hiking trails

Oulanka's trails are well marked and maintained, with plenty of boardwalk over the boggy sections. A few routes stand out for most visitors:

• Karhunkierros (Bear's Ring): the long point-to-point classic, usually walked over several days with overnight stops in wilderness huts.
• Pieni Karhunkierros (Little Bear's Ring): a shorter circular trail near Juuma, taking in gorges, rapids and suspension bridges — a firm favourite for a half or full day.
• Riverside nature trails: gentle, family-friendly loops from the visitor centre area, ideal if you want scenery without a demanding walk.

Distances and difficulty vary, so match the route to your group's fitness and daylight. Always carry a map and let someone know your plan. If you would rather walk with a guide who knows the conditions, that can be arranged as part of a wider itinerary — take a look at our Lapland tours and packages.

Snowshoeing in winter

When the snow settles, the boardwalks disappear beneath a soft white blanket and snowshoes become the natural way to travel. They spread your weight so you float over powder rather than sinking to your knees, and the pace is slow, quiet and meditative.

A few things to keep in mind for a winter visit:

• Days are very short in midwinter, so plan routes that fit the limited daylight and carry a head torch.
• Frozen rivers and rapids look dramatic but should only be approached with care or with a guide.
• Marked summer trails may be under deep snow; guided snowshoe outings are the safest way to explore off the beaten path.
• Winter here also means a real chance of the aurora on clear nights, well away from town lights.

What to wear and pack

Comfort in Oulanka comes down to layering. In summer that means breathable base layers, sturdy waterproof footwear for muddy boardwalk sections, and protection against mosquitoes. In winter it means a proper cold-weather system: thermal base layers, insulating mid-layers, a windproof outer shell, warm boots, gloves and a hat.

Whatever the season, pack:

• Plenty of water and high-energy snacks.
• A map, compass or GPS, and a charged phone.
• A small first-aid kit and any personal medication.
• Extra layers — mountain and forest weather changes quickly.

Serious winter clothing is bulky and expensive to buy for one trip. Rather than fly it in, many of our guests hire a full set on arrival — see our winter clothing rental for warm boots, snowsuits and accessories sized for your group.

Getting there and planning your visit

Oulanka sits close to the Ruka-Kuusamo area, which makes it easy to combine with a wider Lapland holiday of Northern Lights hunts, husky and reindeer safaris and snowmobiling. Kuusamo is the usual gateway, reached by air and road from the south; onward transfers get you to the trailheads.

Finland uses the euro, and travellers from many countries will need a Schengen visa — apply well in advance, as processing times vary by season and location. Our visa guide walks through the essentials, and if you would like more inspiration for the region you will find plenty on our travel blog.

A realistic day plan

For most visitors, a satisfying Oulanka day looks like an early start, a half-day walk or snowshoe on a well-marked loop, a hot drink and packed lunch at a lean-to shelter, and time back in Ruka for the evening's activities. Build in a buffer for photos and weather, and never rush the last stretch in fading light.

Ready to add Oulanka to your Lapland trip? Tell us your travel dates and group size and we will put together the right mix of hiking, snowshoeing and winter adventures — message our team on WhatsApp for a quote and friendly, expert advice.