Oulanka Canyon, Karhunkierros Trail Travel Guide

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Discover the breathtaking Oulanka Canyon, a natural wonder of steep cliffs and rushing rivers in Finland's Oulanka National Park.

Oulanka Canyon, carved by the Oulankajoki River, offers a dramatic landscape of steep cliffs and rushing waters in Oulanka National Park. Accessible via the Kanjonin kurkkaus Trail, it's a stunning display of Finland's natural beauty and geological history.

A brief summary to Oulanka Canyon

Salla, 98995, 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 Oulanka Canyon.

Visit during the snow-free season (June-October) to fully experience the Kanjonin kurkkaus Trail and canyon views.
Wear sturdy waterproof shoes for the varied terrain on the hiking trails.
Bring a picnic to enjoy at the Savilampi open wilderness hut along the Kanjonin kurkkaus Trail.

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Explore Oulanka Canyon on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Oulanka Canyon, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

To reach Oulanka Canyon by car, navigate to Savilampi parking area. From Kuusamo, take road E63 north, then turn onto road 950 towards Salla. Drive approximately 24 km and turn right onto Urriaavantie, following signs for Oulangan kanjoni/Oulanka Canyon. After 4 km, turn right onto Teeriahontie, drive 1 km, and turn left towards Kanjoni. Continue 5.5 km on the forest road to the Savilampi parking area. Note that this forest road is typically open only during the snow-free season. Parking is free.
Public Transport

To reach Oulanka Canyon via public transport, take a bus from Ruka or Kuusamo towards Salla. Get off at a stop along road 950 near the turnoff for Teeriahontie. From there, it's approximately a 6.5 km walk to the Savilampi parking area and the canyon. Check local bus schedules on the Matkahuolto website for the most up-to-date information. A single bus fare from Kuusamo to Salla ranges from €10-€20.
Taxi

To reach Oulanka Canyon by taxi, arrange a ride from Ruka or Kuusamo to the Savilampi parking area. A taxi from Ruka to Juuma (close to Oulanka Canyon) starts at €50 for 1-2 persons. Confirm the exact price and availability with the taxi service when booking. Taxi services in the area include Otaxi and Rukan Taksi- ja huoltopalvelu.

Discover more about Oulanka Canyon

Oulanka Canyon, a striking natural feature within Oulanka National Park, presents a dramatic gorge carved by the Oulankajoki River. The canyon's steep, rocky banks and the clear, powerful river flowing through it create a mesmerizing landscape that speaks to Finland's ancient geological past.The canyon is best viewed from the Kanjonin kurkkaus Trail (Canyon Peek Trail), a 6 km loop that offers several vantage points. This trail leads hikers through diverse forest types and around Kirkasvetinenlampi Pond before reaching the rugged canyon. A suspension bridge at Savilampi open wilderness hut provides access to the canyon's south side, offering more perspectives.Oulanka National Park, established in 1956, has long been celebrated for its exceptional scenery and biodiversity. The canyon itself is a prime example of the park's blend of northern, eastern, and southern natural elements. The Oulankajoki River, known for its frequent floods, has played a crucial role in shaping the canyon over millennia.Visitors can explore the canyon area primarily during the snow-free months, typically from June to October. The Savilampi parking area serves as the trailhead for the Kanjonin kurkkaus Trail, providing access to this remarkable natural attraction.