Putaanköngäs Waterfall, Karhunkierros Trail Travel Guide

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Discover Finland's only punchbowl waterfall, a hidden gem in Oulanka National Park, offering a unique and secluded natural experience.

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Putaanköngäs Waterfall

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
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Putaanköngäs Waterfall.

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.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Ristikallio Cliffs

Jyrävä Rapids

Kiutaköngäs

Aallokkokoski Rapids

Lilla Björnrundan

Explore Putaanköngäs Waterfall on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Putaanköngäs Waterfall, mapped for you.

Getting There

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.
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.
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

Putaanköngäs Waterfall, also known as Purkuputaanköngäs, is a captivating natural attraction located in the Oulanka National Park, near Kuusamo, Finland. This ten-meter-high waterfall is situated on the Putaanoja River, a mere half-kilometer before it merges with the Oulankajoki River.The waterfall is unique because the water flows through a narrow crack in a rocky cliff, plunging into a pond in two stages: first through a chute-like formation, then vertically. This makes Putaanköngäs a 'punchbowl' waterfall, believed to be the only one of its kind in Finland. The high-pressure water bursts out of the crack and falls into the pool below.Despite its relatively small water volume, Putaanköngäs murmurs beautifully, even in June. The element of surprise adds to its charm; as you approach along the river, the waterfall suddenly appears after a small rapid and a bend in the river. The gorge-like view, with water cascading through the cliff crack, evokes an alpine atmosphere, making it a hidden treasure among Kuusamo's waterfalls.While less known than other waterfalls in the area, such as Kiutaköngäs, Putaanköngäs offers a more secluded and intimate experience. The absence of marked trails contributes to its untouched feel, appealing to adventurous visitors.