Kuhmo: Culture, Trails and Landscapes

Kuhmo brings together cultural history and nature activities. The history of the Winter War and the Kalevala tradition come to life in museums and cultural venues; outdoor options range from a walking trail in the town centre to seasonal cross-country ski trails. You can plan your trip around the themes and activities that interest you most.

Cultural History and Folklore

The Kuhmo Winter War Museum covers the Finnish-Soviet Winter War in Kuhmo from November 30, 1939, to March 13, 1940. It depicts the daily lives of Finnish and Soviet soldiers, as well as the challenges faced by the civilian population. It therefore focuses on both military experiences and the impact of the war on people.

Kuhmo Church was built in 1816. Damage sustained during the Winter War bombings made it unusable; it was restored to its present form in 1985. It can accommodate up to 1,500 people and is used for services and concerts. In summer, it also serves as a road church. The uses may vary depending on the parish’s programme.

Juminkeko is located in central Kuhmo. It hosts year-round rotating exhibitions about the Kalevala, as well as Finnish and Karelian folklore. The permanent exhibition features statues of Karelian rune singers and Kalevala translators, created by Alpo and Nina Sailo. Rune singing also remains a living part of the local cultural heritage in the Viena Karelian village of Rimmi in Kuhmo.

Events and Cultural Venues

A cultural heritage event celebrating log driving takes place in Kuhmo every year. It includes traditional demonstrations and the Finnish Log Driving Championships. Dates and programme details vary; check the event schedule before your visit.

The Kuhmo Arts Centre was built as the main venue for Kuhmo Chamber Music. Its Lentua Hall can be adapted for rock, pop, ballet and many other types of events. During the Taste of Kuhmo campfire cooking experience, a guide prepares dinner by a large lake. You can join in the cooking if you wish. Confirm that this experience is available before booking.

Walks, Hiking Trails and Cross-Country Skiing

The Kuhmo coastal trail is an easy 4.8-kilometre walking route. It leads to the main cultural sites in the town centre and through the landscapes along Lake Lammasjärvi and Pajakkakoski. For longer hikes, Kuhmo has more than 250 kilometres of trails for beginners and experienced hikers. Route information is updated regularly.

Cross-country skiing options also depend on the season: depending on the time of year, there are 30 to 80 kilometres of well-maintained ski trails connected to the town. The extent and maintenance of the trails vary by season. Hiking trails and ski trails therefore differ both in length and in the seasons when each activity is the main focus.

Landscapes and Trails Nearby

By water volume, Pajakkakoski is the largest free-flowing river in Kainuu and stretches for approximately 450 metres. The rapid is also part of Kuhmo’s river system. About 20 kilometres from the centre of Kuhmo, Jämäsvaara features old-growth forests, rocky slopes, small bodies of water and mires.

The Elimyssalo area has several relatively easy, well-marked hiking trails of varying lengths, totalling 24 kilometres. Most of Elimyssalo lies within the municipal boundaries of Kuhmo. Check trail conditions before setting out.

The wider region also includes Friendship Park. It offers opportunities for information, adventure and hiking; its Finnish area covers about 29,000 hectares across five sections in the city of Kuhmo and the municipality of Suomussalmi. The park is therefore a larger landscape area than the trails and cultural sites in central Kuhmo.

Getting to Kuhmo

The nearest airport to Kuhmo is in Kajaani; the nearest railway stations are in Kajaani and Nurmes. Several buses run daily between Kajaani and Kuhmo. Check timetables and connections before travelling.

Discover more destinations: Ruokolahti, Anttola, Kosula, Oravikoski, Leppävirta, Heinävesi.

Return to the main travel overview: Lake Saimaa.