Discover Kuusamo: Outdoor Adventures in Finland’s Wild East

A rushing river cuts through a canyon, mist rising from its rapids, while golden-tailed eagles soar above endless pine forests. This is Kuusamo, a town in north-eastern Finland where wild nature takes centre stage. Known as the gateway to Oulanka National Park and the home of the famous Karhunkierros Trail, Kuusamo is one of Finland’s most iconic outdoor destinations.

Located near the Russian border, Kuusamo is surrounded by fells, lakes, and deep forests that attract hikers, skiers, and wildlife enthusiasts year-round. The town itself is modest in size, but its landscapes are vast, dramatic, and rich in biodiversity. To visit Kuusamo is to step into a land where nature is raw and powerful, whether you are paddling a wild river, skiing down snowy slopes, or standing in awe beneath the northern lights.

Outdoor Activities in Kuusamo

Hiking and the Karhunkierros Trail

If you are wondering what to do in Kuusamo, hiking is at the top of the list. The Karhunkierros (Bear’s Trail) is Finland’s most famous long-distance hiking route, stretching about 80 kilometres through Oulanka National Park. Along the way, you’ll encounter hanging bridges, roaring waterfalls, and serene forest paths. For shorter hikes, day routes like the Pieni Karhunkierros (Little Bear’s Trail) offer equally stunning scenery.

Oulanka National Park

Oulanka is a treasure of Kuusamo. Its deep gorges, rapids, and sandy riverbanks are home to rare plants and animals, including orchids, Siberian jays, and even bears. Canoeing and rafting on the Kitkajoki River are thrilling ways to experience the park, with sections suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers.

Ruka Ski Resort

In winter, Kuusamo becomes a lively ski hub. The Ruka ski resort offers alpine skiing, snowboarding, and well-maintained cross-country trails that stretch far into the forests. Ruka’s long season, often starting in October and lasting into May, makes it one of Finland’s most reliable destinations for snow sports.

Wildlife Watching

Kuusamo is one of the best places in Finland to see wildlife. Brown bear watching hides are available in summer and autumn, offering safe opportunities to observe these magnificent animals. Birdwatchers flock to Kuusamo for species like the red-flanked bluetail, capercaillie, and owls.

Summer and Autumn Adventures

When the snow melts, Kuusamo offers endless summer activities. Fishing in the clear lakes, mountain biking along forest trails, and berry picking are popular local pastimes. Autumn, known as ruska season, paints the landscape in fiery colours and is considered the most beautiful time for hiking.

Northern Lights Experiences

From late August to April, Kuusamo’s dark skies often glow with the northern lights. Watching the aurora reflect in a frozen lake or dance above snowy forests is an unforgettable highlight of a winter visit.

Local Tips

• The weather can change quickly in Kuusamo’s fells—pack layers and waterproof clothing for hikes.
• In summer, mosquitoes can be active in forested areas near lakes and marshes, so insect repellent is useful.
• Always respect wildlife—observe from a distance and never feed animals.
• If visiting in winter, prepare for very cold temperatures, especially in January and February.

Best Time to Visit Kuusamo

• Summer (June to August): Midnight sun, hiking, rafting, fishing, and camping in Oulanka.
• Autumn (September to October): Ruska colours, fewer crowds, bear watching, and prime hiking conditions.
• Winter (November to April): Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, aurora hunting, and frozen landscapes.
• Spring (May): Melting rivers create dramatic rapids, and migratory birds return.

How to Get There

Kuusamo has its own airport with daily flights from Helsinki and seasonal connections from other European cities. By car, the town is about an 8-hour drive from Helsinki, though many travellers arrive by plane for convenience. Long-distance buses also connect Kuusamo with Rovaniemi, Oulu, and other towns in Lapland.

Once there, a car is useful for reaching trailheads and exploring remote areas, but shuttle services operate to Ruka and Oulanka during peak seasons.

To discover Kuusamo is to embrace Finland’s wild side, where rivers thunder through canyons, forests stretch for miles, and wildlife thrives. Whether you are hiking the legendary Karhunkierros, skiing on the slopes of Ruka, or gazing up at the northern lights, Kuusamo offers outdoor adventures that capture the essence of the north.