In Puolanka, hiking trails, winter activities and local history cater to a range of travel interests. A trail to a summit starts near the church village; nearby are a waterfall with a geological nature trail and a fishing spot on the river. The locations can help you choose the right focus for your trip.

Hiking Trails and Nature Nearby

The 3.4 km Mustikkavaara Trail starts very close to the church village, near the campsite, and leads to the summit of Mustikkavaara. From there, you can enjoy wide-ranging views. Another option is the 4 km Pyssykulju Trail. It features significant elevation changes and steep climbs, and is suitable for fit hikers as well as for a day trip for families with school-age children. There is a lean-to shelter and a swimming spot at the trailhead. Seasonal conditions may vary.

Hepoköngäs, one of Finland’s highest natural waterfalls, is located near Puolanka. It is the best-known attraction in the Hepoköngäs nature reserve, established in 1956. Accessible trails lead to the waterfall. Above it are a lean-to shelter, a dry toilet and a viewpoint; below it, another accessible trail runs past a viewpoint. The 1.5 km geological nature trail passes the waterfall and follows the riverbanks of the Heinijoki. Information boards provide information about the development of the Earth’s surface.

Also nearby is Puutiokoski, on the upper reaches of the Keskijoki, about 4 km from the church village. The stretch of rapids, surrounded by forest, is around 10 m wide. Light spinning tackle or a fly rod are suitable for fishing; target fish include grayling and trout. The two destinations offer different focal points: Hepoköngäs centers on the waterfall, views and geological information, while Puutiokoski is a fishing destination.

Winter Activities in Puolanka

The Honkavaara cross-country skiing center is in the church village. It offers FIS-standard trails, changing rooms, showers, a ski-waxing room, and café and timing facilities. Check local information about the facilities before your trip. Snowshoeing is also possible at the Honkavaara Ski Center in the church village; seasonal conditions may vary.

Church and Cultural History

Puolanka Church is in the municipality’s central settlement area. It belongs to the Diocese of Kuopio and the Kajaani deanery, was completed and opened in 1954, and was designed by Chief Architect Olavi Sortta. As a so-called Tiekirkko (Road Church), it offers travelers a place to rest from early June to mid-August. Specific arrangements may vary from year to year.

The old churchyard is located 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. The municipality’s cultural identity also includes the non-profit association Puolangan pessimistit ry. Its stated purpose is to promote, develop and preserve Puolanka’s cultural life and cultural production, as well as Puolanka pessimism, thereby increasing the municipality’s recognition and reputation.

Locations to Consider When Planning Your Trip

If you are looking for a hotel in Puolanka, it may help to first choose the focus of your stay: activities in the church village, hikes, or destinations nearby. The Mustikkavaara Trail starts near the church village, and Honkavaara is located there; Hepoköngäs and Puutiokoski are classified as nearby destinations. These distinctions can help with planning without combining the places into a fixed route.

The boat harbor in the church village has a boat ramp, a pier and berths for rent. It is located at Melatie 4; the municipal administration’s customer service provides information about the berths. The Paljakka Tourist Center is also within the municipality. It is located in the municipality of Puolanka and is about a half-hour drive from the municipal center; the time is approximate and depends on the route.

Discover More Destinations

Kajaani, Jormua, Sotkamo, Hossa, Ruhtinansalmi, Vaala, Suomussalmi and Paltamo.

For the overarching travel overview: Kainuu.