Karhunkierros - The Bear's Trail, Lapland Travel Guide

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Hike Finland's legendary Karhunkierros trail: an 82km adventure through Oulanka National Park's stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems.

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Karhunkierros - The Bear's Trail

Karhunkierros, or the Bear's Trail, is Finland's most popular hiking route, offering an 82km trek through the diverse landscapes of Oulanka National Park. This legendary trail immerses hikers in the beauty of Finnish nature, with options for various starting points and shorter day trips.

A brief summary to Karhunkierros - The Bear's Trail

Liikasenvaarantie 137, Kuusamo, 93850, FI
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Karhunkierros - The Bear's Trail.

Plan your hike between late May and October to avoid snow and ice.
Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season (June-August), as the huts can fill up quickly.
Pack appropriate clothing and gear, including sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, and a sleeping bag.
Bring a map and compass, and familiarize yourself with the trail markings.
Carry enough food and water, or a water filter, as facilities are limited along the trail.

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Explore Karhunkierros - The Bear's Trail on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Karhunkierros - The Bear's Trail, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

If driving, several parking areas provide access to the trail. Paid parking is available at the Karhunkierros Visitor Centre in Hautajärvi (Hautajärventie 414, 98995 Hautajärvi) for €10/day. From Kuusamo, follow Route 5 towards Salla, then Route 950 to Hautajärvi. From Ruka, take Route 950 towards Salla. Parking is also available at Ristikallio (Sallantie 174, 93900 Kuusamo) and other access points.
Public Transport

The Karhunkierros Trail bus connects Kuusamo, Ruka, and Hautajärvi. From Kuusamo Airport, take the airport bus to Ruka, then transfer to the Karhunkierros bus towards Hautajärvi. Tickets can be booked via the Matkahuolto website or app. A one-way ticket from Ruka to Hautajärvi costs approximately €10. Be sure to check the bus schedule in advance, as departures may be limited, especially on weekends.

Discover more about Karhunkierros - The Bear's Trail

Karhunkierros, meaning the Bear's Trail in Finnish, is an 82-kilometer hiking trail that winds through the stunning Oulanka National Park in Northern Finland. Renowned as Finland's most popular hiking route, it offers an unforgettable journey through diverse terrains, including lush forests, vast wetlands, and rugged canyons. The trail presents a moderate to challenging experience, typically taking 4 to 7 days to complete, making it suitable for both novice and experienced hikers.The trail is well-marked with orange signs, ensuring hikers stay on course. Along the way, hikers can find seven open wilderness huts and three-day use huts, as well as multiple lean-to shelters and Lapp huts, providing shelter and rest. Camping is permitted near marked rest areas, campfire sites, and huts. The Karhunkierros trail showcases some of Finland's most breathtaking scenery, including the roaring rapids and falls of the Kitka River, the serene Oulanka River, and the panoramic views from the tops of Konttainen and Valtavaara fells.Karhunkierros gets its name from the history of the area, where bears were once commonly seen. While bear sightings are now rare, the trail offers opportunities to spot other wildlife, such as reindeer and moose. The trail's highlights include Oulanka Canyon, the sculptured Rupakivi rock, and numerous hanging bridges. The smaller, 12-kilometer Pieni Karhunkierros trail offers a condensed version of the Oulanka experience, perfect for a day hike.