Karhunkierros (Bear's Trail) Trek in Oulanka

Hike about 80 km along the Oulankajoki and Kitkajoki rivers, crossing suspension bridges, canyons, and rapids to Ruka.

Finland's most famous long-distance trail, completed in four days of hiking, staying overnight in free wilderness huts or Juuma cabins. Along the way are suspension bridges, canyons, and rapids. The route is point-to-point, relying on a pre-booked bus to reach the starting point. Suitable for those with backpacking experience; if time is tight, you can hike only the Pieni Karhunkierros (Little Bear's Trail).

Mosquitoes are abundant in June–July; September offers beautiful autumn colors but huts are crowded. The trail is not maintained in winter.

Day by day

Day 1 · Arrive in Ruka and Prepare Gear

Ruka & Kuusamo（Ruka Ski Resort）

Take a shuttle bus or taxi from Kuusamo Airport to Ruka Village (approx. 30 mins). Rest after stocking up on supplies.

You can store extra luggage in Ruka and pre-book the bus for the next day.

Stay: Ruka Village

Day 2 · Oulanka Canyon to Suspension Bridges

Ruka & Kuusamo（Oulanka Canyon、Taivalköngäs）

Take the pre-booked bus to the Hautajärvi starting point, then hike about 19 km (approx. 6–7 hours).

Huts are first-come, first-served; bring a tent as backup during peak season.

Stay: Taivalköngäs Wilderness Hut

Day 3 · Kiutaköngäs Rapids Section

Ruka & Kuusamo（Kiutaköngäs Rapids、Oulanka National Park）

Hike via the Oulanka National Park Visitor Center to Ansakämppä Hut, about 17 km (approx. 5–6 hours).

You can eat and buy limited supplies at the visitor center; check opening hours in advance.

Stay: Ansakämppä Wilderness Hut

Day 4 · Over the Hills to Juuma

Ruka & Kuusamo（Pieni Karhunkierros & Myllykoski）

Hike via Jussinkämppä Hut and Jyrävä Rapids to Juuma, about 21 km (approx. 7 hours).

Stay: Juuma-Oulanka

Day 5 · Cross Valtavaara back to Ruka

Ruka & Kuusamo（Konttainen Hill、Valtavaara、Karhunkierros Trail）

Hike from Juuma via Porontimajoki to Ruka, about 22 km (approx. 7–8 hours), with lots of climbing in the final section.

Stay: Ruka Village

Day 6 · Resupply in Kuusamo and Depart

Ruka & Kuusamo（Kuusamo Town & Karhuntassu Visitor Centre）

Take a bus or taxi from Ruka to Kuusamo town (approx. 30 mins), then to the airport (approx. 10 mins).