Putaanköngäs Waterfall: A Hidden Gem of Oulanka National Park
Discover Finland's only punchbowl waterfall, a hidden gem in Oulanka National Park, offering a unique and secluded natural experience.
Putaanköngäs Waterfall, nestled within Oulanka National Park in Kuusamo, Finland, is a ten-meter high geological rarity. Known as Finland's only 'punchbowl' waterfall, its waters dramatically cascade through a narrow crack in a rocky cliff into a pool below, offering a unique and picturesque scene.
A brief summary to Putaanköngäs Waterfall
- Kuusamo, 93850, FI
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the terrain leading to the waterfall can be uneven and slippery.
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting conditions for photography.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions in the region can change rapidly.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy by the waterfall, taking in the serene natural surroundings.
Getting There
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Driving
From Kuusamo, drive north on Route 5 (E75) for approximately 25 kilometers. Look for signs directing you to the Karhunkierros Trail. Park at the designated parking area for the trail. From there, Putaanköngäs Waterfall is about a 1-kilometer walk. Follow the marked trail signs towards the waterfall. Parking is free.
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Public Transport
Take a bus from Rovaniemi to Kuusamo. Bus services like OnniBus and Matkahuolto operate on this route. Upon arrival in Kuusamo, take a local taxi or check for shuttle services to the Karhunkierros Trail parking area. The taxi ride is approximately 15 minutes and costs around €20. The waterfall is about a 1-kilometer walk from the parking area.
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Walking
From Liikasenvaarantie road, walk approximately three kilometers south along the river. Alternatively, use a forest road east of the river to get closer by car (road condition is poor). Then continue on foot to the Putaanoja River. Be prepared for a trek of several hours due to the challenging terrain.
Discover more about Putaanköngäs Waterfall
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Jussinkämppä open wilderness hut
7.9 km
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Siilastupa Open Wilderness Hut
11.8 km
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House of Northern Senses
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Konttainen Parking Lot
18.8 km
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Villa Vuosselinranta
22.9 km
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Monomesta
23.2 km
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Rukakaiku Cottages
23.3 km
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Aurinkopaikka
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Rosa & Rudolf Kids'Club
23.5 km
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Outdoor Passion Finland
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Pohjolan Pirtti
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Summer Sled Track
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Magical Pond
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Scandic Rukahovi
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SKI-INN Hotel RukaVillage
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Unmissable attractions to see
Kiutaköngäs
3.7 km
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Oulanka National Park
4.2 km
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Oulanka Visitor Center
4.3 km
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Karhunkierros - The Bear's Trail
4.7 km
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Camping Juuma
9.7 km
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Juuman Leirintäalue
9.7 km
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Pieni Karhunkierros Circle Trail
10.0 km
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Stella Polaris Adventures Rafting center Rafting Center
10.5 km
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Basecamp Oulanka
10.7 km
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Pieni Karhunkierros Trail
11.0 km
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Lilla Björnrundan
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Myllykoski Rapids
11.0 km
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Aallokkokoski Rapids
11.4 km
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Jyrävä Rapids
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Ristikallio Cliffs
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Essential places to dine
Ravintola Talonpöytä Oulanka (Kiutaköngäs)
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Retki-Etappi Oy
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CAMP Kitchen & Bar - RUKA
23.5 km
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Ski Bistro
23.6 km
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Ski Booster - Bar - Cafe - Grill
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Ristorante il GUFO
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Polar Bar Ruka
24.0 km
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RukaTonttu
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Arctic Boutique hotel & restaurant RUKAN KAARNA
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Hut Restaurant Kataja
24.2 km
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Bar IHKU Ruka
24.4 km
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Zone
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Kaltiokivi
24.5 km
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Restaurant Piste
24.5 km
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RUOK
24.5 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
ABC Sale Käylä
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Toiminimi Kirpputori Jaana Uutela
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SKI-INN Hotels & Apartments RukaValley
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K-Market RukaValley
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Pohjolan taiga
24.4 km
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Zipline Ruka
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Intersport Ruka
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Ruka BrandVillage
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RukaStore
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UNNA S living
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Life
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Head Ruka Ski Rent
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K-Market Ruka village
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Wolf Sport Oy
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Cafe-Bar Twin Peak
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Grill Ruka drive-in
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Burger Cafe & Bar Ruka
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Iisakki Village Ravintola
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Kuusamon Lopotti Ky
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TUNDRA Ceramics & Gastronomy
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O'Learys Holiday Club Kuusamon Tropiikki
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Ravintola Remu
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LÄMSÄN ERÄMIEHET R.Y.
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Kahvila-Ravintola Olavi Seppänen
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