The Little Karhunkierros Trail
The Little Karhunkierros Trail is a popular day hiking trail at the southernmost point of Oulanka National Park. Its route partially connects with the Karhunkierros Trail. The Little Karhunkierros Trail can easily be completed in a few hours. You can start your hike of this magnificent circle trail directly from Basecamp Oulanka. The Little Karhunkierros Trail is marked with green markings and signage.
© Kerttu Määttä / kertuntaidepuoti.fi
Basecamp – Myllykoski – Pyöreälampi – Kallioportti – Harrisuvanto – Jyrävä – Myllykoski – Basecamp
The scenic route offers views of the magnificent nature of Oulanka: The raging rapids of the Kitkajoki river, the Jyrävä waterfall, steep gorges, sheltering forests and the spectacular views from the Kallioportti vantage point.
The length of the Little Karhunkierros Trail, from Basecamp, is approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles). The indicative travel time of the route is 4–6 hours. It includes both easily navigated and more challenging sections.
The path includes several campfire and resting sites, two suspension bridges, as well as the steep stairs of the Kallioportti vantage point, which are descended when hiking the circle trail in a clockwise direction or ascended when hiking in a counterclockwise direction.
- Myllykoski vantage point by the rapids
- Suspension bridge over the Kitkajoki river
- The Kallioportti vantage point, offering stunning views of the Kitkajoki valley
- The 100 metres long descent from Kallioportti to the valley is steep
- Lean-to shelter and suspension bridge at Harrisuvanto
- Siilastupa cabin and campfire site by the Jyrävä rapids
- Myllykoski has an old grain mill which today serves as a day-use hut
- The tour ends at Basecamp Oulanka
More information: https://www.nationalparks.fi/oulankanp/trails/hikingtrails#pienikarhunkierros
Guided Little Karhunkierros Trail
You can also hike the Little Karhunkierros Trail in the company of a professional guide. Our guide will provide interesting information and entertaining stories about the surrounding nature, animals and the history of the area, while admiring the magnificent nature and spectacular views along the route.
Departures from Basecamp in summer 2024 take place every Tue, Thu and Sat at 10.30am, other times by appointment. Book your departure on https://www.basecampoulanka.fi/en
The Little Karhunkierros in winter
The route has no winter maintenance, but can also be hiked during the winter on snowshoes available for rent at Basecamp, or alternatively with studded/non-slip shoes. In winter, it is recommended to hike the Little Karhunkierros Trail counterclockwise.
You can end your wintry hike with a warm soup lunch or a hot beverage and a freshly baked waffle at the Basecamp Oulanka’s café.