Auttiköngäs — Attraction in Rovaniemi sub-region

Auttikongas is a combination of several things that makes it a unique place to visit. There's a scenic waterfall, a looping 3.5 km hiking nature trail that runs around that waterfall, a cafe that opens in the summer and a logging dam with information boards about its history.

We visited the place in September. We did not try the hiking trail, but had some tea at the cafe and spent some time admiring the waterfall and the immediate surrounding area. The place looks serene and beautiful, with one side of the waterfall overlooking the calm river, while on the other side you can see the rushing rapids.

The history of this place is that loggers in the past build a wooden flume as part of log floating, which part of it still remains today.

To reach this place, you'll need to drive about 5 minutes along the gravel road from the main road. There are signboards informing you on where to turn. The parking space is open air and free for all.

Really loved the scenery here and if you're feeling up for it, the place is ideal for half a day out excursion from Rovaniemi. The drive out here takes about an hour, and you can pair it together with Ranua Zoo further down south. You can also hike here, the trail is dog friendly as well. It was quite an experience to listen to the sound of rushing water as you take in the...

Well maintained route, difficulty level was between easy and intermediate. There is only one lean-to shelter on the trail, which can get quickly overcrowded. Observe for 'kuukkeli', which almost fed on my hands. The route has only a few steep elevations, approximately 100m. The 'vaara' is merely a 196m above sea level.

The road leading to the base camp was in good condition, parking lot can accommodate ~30 motorised vehicles. On the parking lots there are toilets, another sheltered fireplace, museum and a cafe.

Remember not to leave any trash...

We've been there in early February. Everything was covered in snow and looked stunningly beautiful. The path was still easy accessible. Even our two kids (age 7) had no trouble at all. It took us a good two hours for the loop track but we took some breaks inbetween.

The cafe was closed though. So bring enough supplies...