Kuusamo offers access to two spectacular national parks: Oulanka National Park and Riisitunturi National Park. Both parks showcase Finland’s diverse wilderness landscapes, from rushing rivers and ancient forests to snow-crowned trees and vast wetlands. These protected areas provide year-round outdoor activities and include some of the most biodiverse regions in northern Finland.
Which national parks can you visit from Kuusamo?
From Kuusamo, you can easily visit Oulanka National Park and Riisitunturi National Park. Oulanka National Park, established in 1956, lies directly adjacent to Kuusamo and features the famous Karhunkierros Trail alongside pristine rivers. Riisitunturi National Park sits northeast of Kuusamo and becomes internationally recognised in winter for its iconic snow-laden trees.
Oulanka National Park spans 290 square kilometres and attracts approximately 200,000 visitors annually. The park showcases diverse landscapes where the Oulanka and Kitka rivers carve through canyon-like valleys, creating dramatic waterfalls and rapids. The limestone-rich bedrock supports exceptionally diverse vegetation, including rare orchids and ancient spruce forests.
Riisitunturi National Park encompasses the highest and most scenically impressive parts of the Kuusamo highland region. The park centres around rugged fell ridges surrounded by extensive wetland areas and crystal-clear lakes. During winter, heavy crown snow creates sculptural formations on spruce trees, producing quintessential Lapland postcard imagery.
Distances and accessibility
Both parks offer excellent accessibility from Kuusamo town centre. Oulanka’s main entrances lie within 30 kilometres of Kuusamo, while Riisitunturi sits approximately 25 kilometres northeast. Well-maintained forest roads provide year-round access to trailheads and visitor facilities.
What can you do in Oulanka National Park?
Oulanka National Park offers diverse activities centred around its world-famous Karhunkierros Trail, river adventures, and wildlife observation. The park features more than ten hiking trails, white-water rafting opportunities, and exceptional photography locations. Seasonal activities range from summer canoeing to winter snowshoeing through pristine wilderness landscapes.
The 82-kilometre Karhunkierros Trail ranks as Finland’s most popular hiking route, offering sections suitable for day walks or multi-day adventures. Key highlights include the Myllykoski rapids, the Kiutaköngäs waterfall, and suspension bridges spanning dramatic river gorges. The trail showcases the park’s geological diversity, from limestone-influenced vegetation to ancient forest ecosystems.
River activities are among the park’s cornerstone attractions. The Oulanka and Kitka rivers provide excellent white-water rafting from late May through October, with rapids suitable for various skill levels. Guided canoeing trips explore calmer river sections, allowing for wildlife observation and photography. The crystal-clear waters and free-flowing rapids are rare in modern Europe.
Wildlife and nature experiences
Oulanka supports diverse arctic wildlife, including brown bears, wolverines, lynx, and golden eagles. The park’s varied habitats—from ancient forests to wetlands—create exceptional biodiversity where southern and northern species meet. Spring and summer offer optimal wildlife viewing, while autumn transforms the landscape into the golden colours known as ruska.
You can explore summer activities in Ruka–Kuusamo that complement your national park adventures, including guided wilderness experiences and accommodation options.
Why should you visit Riisitunturi National Park?
Riisitunturi National Park offers unique crown snow phenomena and spectacular fell landscapes with panoramic views over Lake Kitkajärvi. The park combines easily accessible trails with authentic wilderness experiences, featuring extensive wetlands, ancient forests, and dramatic seasonal transformations. Winter visits reveal the iconic snow-sculpted spruces that define northern Finland’s visual identity.
Crown snow formations occur when moist air and freezing temperatures create thick snow accumulations on spruce trees, transforming them into natural sculptures. This phenomenon, typical of Kuusamo’s high ridges, creates otherworldly winter landscapes that attract photographers and nature enthusiasts worldwide. The formations typically develop from December through March.
Riisitunturi’s treeless fells provide expansive views across vast forest and wetland areas. The park’s summit areas alternate between harsh fell heaths, open wetlands, and small fertile meadows. Lower slopes feature ancient spruce forests and limestone-influenced depressions that support rich vegetation communities.
Seasonal highlights and activities
Summer hiking reveals the park’s botanical diversity and offers excellent opportunities to view the aurora from elevated positions. The extensive aapa wetlands remain pristine and support valuable bird populations. Winter activities include snowshoeing through crown snow forests and cross-country skiing across frozen wetlands.
The park’s well-maintained trail network provides options for various fitness levels while preserving its wilderness character. Accessible boardwalks cross sensitive wetland areas, allowing close observation of unique northern ecosystems without environmental impact.
Experience authentic Arctic wilderness with Tailored Adventures Rukapalvelu
We specialise in guided national park experiences that reveal the authentic Arctic spirit of the Ruka–Kuusamo region. Our family-owned company brings more than 35 years of local expertise to create tailored adventures combining accommodation, dining, and wilderness activities. Through our Farnorth concept, we offer genuine northern experiences that embody “Closer than you think, wilder than you imagined.”
Our national park services include:
- Guided canoeing expeditions in Oulanka National Park
- White-water river rafting with wilderness dining experiences
- Wilderness day adventures combining rapids, hiking, and traditional saunas
- Photography tours capturing crown snow formations and arctic wildlife
- Multi-day hiking packages with comfortable accommodation
- Seasonal berry and mushroom foraging experiences
We provide complete packages, from our modern Hotel Arctic Zone and wilderness lodges to restaurant services featuring locally inspired cuisine. Our programmes accommodate individual travellers, families, and corporate groups with customised itineraries that respect environmental values while delivering unforgettable wilderness moments.
The Farnorth philosophy guides our approach—connecting you with authentic northern life, where adventure meets tranquillity in one of the world’s most pristine wilderness areas. Our local knowledge ensures you experience the national parks’ hidden gems while supporting sustainable tourism practices.
Contact Tailored Adventures Rukapalvelu to plan your national park adventure and discover why the Ruka–Kuusamo region offers some of Finland’s most accessible yet authentic wilderness experiences.