Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Oulankajoki
Shadowing the Karhunkierros much of the way, the Oulankajoki gives you a chance to see
mighty canyons from a canoe or kayak. The first leg, a 20km trip, starts from Rd 950,
north of Ristikallio. The first 7km or so is relatively calm paddling, until you reach the im-
pressive Oulanka Canyon. The safe section extends for about 1km, after which pull aside
and carry your canoe twice past dangerous rapids. You can overnight at Savilampi hut,
also a popular starting point.
Some 3km after Savilampi are Taivalköngäs rapids (carry), where there's a hut. The
next 9km are quiet, passing a couple of campgrounds before reaching Oulanka Visitor
Centre, which rents canoes for this trip. Not far downstream are Kiutaköngäs rapids
(carry). Below them the Lower Oulankajoki stretch is 25km of easy paddling, suitable for
beginners, ending at Jäkälämutka parking area just short of the Russian border.
Kitkajoki
The spectacular Kitkajoki offers some of Finland's best canoeing and rafting. There are
two main sections: the family-friendly section from Käylä, on the Kuusamo-Salla road, to
Juuma, and the challenging 'wild' section beyond Juuma, which includes plenty of tricky
rapids.
Käylä to Juuma
The first 14km leg is suitable for families, involving no carrying. Start at the Käylänkoski,
continue 3km to the easy Kiehtäjänniva, and a further kilometre to the Vähä-Käylänkoski:
also class I. Next come three class II rapids spaced every 400m. A kilometre further is the
trickiest: 300m class III Harjakoski. The remaining 7km is mostly lakes.
Juuma to the Russian Border
This 20km journey is one of Finland's most challenging river routes: you should be an ex-
pert paddler, and must carry your canoe at least once - around the 12m, class VI Jyrävä
waterfall. Ask for local advice and inspect the tricky rapids before you let go. There's a
minimum age of 18.
 
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