One of the harder average hiking trails. Really splendid scenery and views, lots of variety in landscape.
You can drink the water straight out of rivers and streams, but the water from lakes need to be boiled or purified. Many good camping places.
One negative factor are the mosquitoes who are there mid June and the whole of July. Best is to go there before or after because you get stung relentlessly and without pause. They sting you trough your socks and clothing and its impossible to have a comfortable rest or even to take your boots of for just a minute.
It's a hard trail, they mark it as average but it's not a beginner trail by all means. It's a 4 or 5 days hike 82 km and the last 8 km are the roughest because of 5 hills and a ski piste you have to climb which takes a whole day for average people. With a full pack of 20 or more kilos its definitely challenging but worth it. We did it in 3,5 days but really walked 12 hours straight for at least 2 days to make it that fast. If you want to enjoy the trip I advice you to start easy about 15 km a day is enough. Any more will only cause discomfort, blisters, pain and suffering. We paid a price for our fast hike that's all I...
   Read moreOulanka National Park is an easy-to-reach park with lots of structures supporting both shorter treks and longer hikes. Most visitors follow the well-marked paths, which really is encouraged for the sake of vulnerable terrain, endangered species and personal safety. The paths are reasonably easy. One has to walk lots of small to moderate ascents and descents, though. The rivers Kitka and Oulanka are best crossed along bridges built for the hiking routes. Even a shortish period of rain may dangerously raise the river and increase the likelihood of severe accidents if wading or swimming is attempted. Trek safely! When staying in the open wilderness huts, please appreciate the wilderness code: the last and most tired has the right of bed. Those having already been resting are supposed to yield. Always clean and leave chopped firewood behind. Look around and listen carefully, fascinating avifauna such as red-flanked bluetail, little bunting, rustic bunting, three-toed woodpecker, capercaillie, hazel grouse, great grey owl, ural owl, hawk owl, and many other species may be in...
   Read moređČ Oulanka National Park â A Hidden Gem in Finland's Wilderness If you think youâve seen everything Finland has to offerâthink again. Oulanka National Park feels like stepping into another world, unlike anywhere else in the country. At its heart are the breathtaking Oulankajoki and Kitkajoki rivers, whose winding paths and foaming rapids create a natural symphony for the senses.
We hiked along dramatic river cliffs and peaceful meadows, each turn offering views more magical than the last. There are well-maintained campfire spots perfect for a scenic barbecue break or just soaking in the serene surroundings.
đ Travel Tip: Donât rely entirely on Google Mapsâ the official parking area and visitor center are located a few kilometers further than indicated. Keep going, itâs...
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