Puolanka: Nature Trails, Winter Sports and Culture

The trails vary in length and terrain; the sights focus not only on nature but also on architectural and local history.

Hiking Trails and Nature Destinations

The 3.4 km Mustikkavaara Trail starts close to the church village of Puolanka, near the campsite, and leads to the summit of Mustikkavaara. From there, you can enjoy sweeping views. The 4 km Pyssykulju Trail has considerable elevation changes and steep climbs. It is suitable for fit hikers and as a day trip for families with school-age children. There is a lean-to shelter and a swimming spot at the trailhead. The trails are similar in length, at 3.4 and 4 km; the steep climbs and elevation changes on the Pyssykulju Trail are an important difference to consider when planning. Seasonal conditions may vary.

Near Puolanka is Hepoköngäs, one of Finland’s highest natural waterfalls and the best-known attraction in the Hepoköngäs Nature Reserve, established in 1956. Accessible trails lead to the waterfall. Above it, there is a lean-to shelter, a dry toilet and a lookout point; below it, another accessible trail leads to a lookout point. The 1.5 km geological nature trail runs by the waterfall and along the shoreline of the Heinijoki River. Information boards explain how the Earth’s surface developed. This makes it possible to combine a visit to the waterfall with a short, themed nature trail.

Fishing and Boating

Puutiokoski is on the upper reaches of the Keskijoki River, about 4 km from the church village of Puolanka. The rapid, surrounded by forest, is about 10 m wide. Light spinning tackle or a fly rod are suitable for fishing; target species include grayling and trout. Both the approximate distance from the church village and the fishing methods and fish species listed provide practical points of reference for planning.

The marina in the church village is at Melatie 4. Facilities include a boat ramp, a pier and boat berths for rent. For information about the berths, contact the municipal administration’s customer service. As availability may change, it is advisable to check the latest information before your trip.

Winter Sports in Puolanka

The Honkavaara cross-country skiing centre is in the church village. It has FIS-standard trails, changing rooms, showers, a ski-waxing room, a café and timing facilities. Check locally for details about the facilities before your trip. Snowshoeing is possible in the grounds of the Honkavaara ski centre; seasonal conditions may vary. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are two different winter activities available at the same ski centre.

Church and Local History

Puolanka Church is in the municipality’s central settlement area. It was completed and opened in 1954 and designed by Chief Architect Olavi Sortta. The old churchyard is near the church. It is one of the oldest visible historical monuments in Puolanka and has not been used for more than a hundred years. Together, the church and churchyard offer a reason to explore the area’s architectural and local history as well as its natural attractions.

The Paljakka Tourist Centre is also in the municipality of Puolanka, about a half-hour drive from the municipal centre. The driving time is approximate and depends on the route. For travel planning, it helps to understand this as a distance from the municipal centre, rather than as a location in the church village.

Discover more destinations: Hyrynsalmi, Vaala, Kajaani, Ruhtinansalmi, Sotkamo, Jormua, Ristijärvi, Suomussalmi.

For the broader travel overview: Kainuu.