Oulanka

Oulanka is a national park in Finland, named after the Oulanka River. It lies in the Kuusamo municipality in eastern Finland, near the town of Kuusamo and close to the Russian border. Established in 1956, the park protects a section of the Oulanka River valley and the surrounding boreal forest.

The park features rugged river valleys, deep gorges and rapids, and extensive stands of pine, spruce and birch. Wetlands and mires are common, and the landscape is threaded with wooden boardwalks and footbridges that provide access to viewpoints and nature trails. The Oulanka River and its tributaries create dramatic scenery, with seasonal changes from spring floods to snowy winters.

Oulanka is a popular destination for hiking, canoeing and winter activities such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The Karhunkierros, also known as the Bear’s Trail, is a long-distance route that runs through the park along river canyons for roughly 80–90 kilometers and is commonly completed in 4–5 days. Shorter circuits and cabin huts along the route support multi-day treks, while camping and lodging are arranged in accordance with park regulations.

Flora and fauna reflect boreal forest biodiversity. Forests are dominated by pine, spruce and birch, with wetlands hosting mosses and lichens. Notable fauna includes large mammals such as brown bear, moose and lynx, along with beaver and a variety of bird species that utilize riverine and wetland habitats.

Conservation and administration: Oulanka is managed by Metsähallitus. The park aims to preserve natural values while providing opportunities for recreation and nature-based education. Visitors are encouraged to stay on marked trails, use designated camping areas and follow local guidelines to minimize environmental impact.