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Lilla Björnrundan: A Hiking Gem in Oulanka National Park

Explore Finland's natural beauty on this 12km trail in Oulanka National Park, featuring diverse landscapes and stunning views.

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Lilla Björnrundan, or the Small Bear Trail, is a stunning 12-kilometer hiking route in Kuusamo, Finland, within the Oulanka National Park. Known for its diverse landscapes, including rapids, cliffs, and forests, it offers a taste of the larger Karhunkierros Trail.

A brief summary to Lilla Björnrundan

  • 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

  • Visit early in the morning for a peaceful hike and better chances of spotting wildlife.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic rest stops along the trail.
  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water, as some sections of the trail can be uneven.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the Finnish wilderness.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are already within Oulanka National Park and near the Visitor Centre, you can reach Lilla Björnrundan by walking. Follow the marked trails from the Visitor Centre towards the main park routes. The distance is approximately 3 km and should take about 30-40 minutes on foot. Look for signs directing you to Myllykoskentie, where you can then connect to Lilla Björnrundan. No costs are associated with this guidance.

  • Car

    If you are driving to Lilla Björnrundan, start from Kuusamo. Take Route 5 (E63) heading towards Oulu. After approximately 25 km, take the exit onto Myllykoskentie (Road 868) towards Oulanka National Park. Follow Myllykoskentie for about 10 km until you reach Lilla Björnrundan, which is well-signposted. Parking is available at the trailhead. Parking is free.

  • Public Transportation

    To reach Lilla Björnrundan using public transportation, take a bus from Kuusamo to Oulanka National Park. Buses run several times a day, and you can check schedules at the Kuusamo bus station. From the Oulanka National Park bus stop, follow the signs to Lilla Björnrundan, which is approximately a 3 km walk. A single bus fare from Kuusamo to Oulanka National Park costs approximately 5-10 EUR.

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Discover more about Lilla Björnrundan

Lilla Björnrundan (Pieni Karhunkierros in Finnish) is a celebrated 12-kilometer hiking trail located within Oulanka National Park in Kuusamo, Finland. As part of the larger Karhunkierros (Bear's Trail), it provides a condensed yet captivating experience of the region's natural beauty. The trail is renowned for its varied terrain and breathtaking scenery. Hikers can expect to traverse lush forests, cross sparkling rivers, and witness diverse wildlife. The well-marked paths guide visitors through a range of landscapes, offering views of vibrant flora and fauna unique to the area. Keep an eye out for playful squirrels, various bird species, and perhaps even a glimpse of a shy deer. Lilla Björnrundan is more than just a hiking trail; it's an invitation to connect with nature and enjoy the tranquility of the Finnish wilderness. Numerous resting spots along the route allow hikers to pause, take in the stunning vistas, and enjoy a picnic amidst the sounds of nature. The trail is particularly enchanting during autumn when the foliage transforms into a vibrant tapestry of red, orange, and yellow. The trail includes some challenging sections, such as steeper areas that may test your legs and lungs, as well as a few suspension bridges that add excitement to the hike. These bridges and the well-maintained paths are testaments to the trail's popularity and the efforts to make it accessible.

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