Puolanka: Trails, Waterfall and Culture

Puolanka combines trails to viewpoints with winter activities, fishing opportunities and cultural discoveries. The outings vary considerably: the Mustikkavaara Trail leads to a summit with expansive views, while the Pyssykulju Trail is characterised by steep climbs. Nearby, a waterfall and rapids add to the range of things to see and do. You can plan your trip around whether you want to hike, cross-country ski, fish or explore the area's history.

Hiking trails and nature experiences

The 3.4 km Mustikkavaara Trail starts close to Puolanka's church village, near the campsite, and leads to the summit of Mustikkavaara. There are expansive views from the top. If you would like to add a second route to your plans, the 4 km Pyssykulju Trail is a more challenging option, with significant elevation changes and steep climbs. The route 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 area at the starting point.

Nearby 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 viewpoint; below it, another accessible trail passes a viewpoint. The 1.5 km geological nature trail leads past the waterfall and along the Heinijoki riverbank landscape. Information boards provide insights into the development of the Earth's surface. The nature trail therefore has a different focus from the summit route to Mustikkavaara.

Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and fishing

The Honkavaara Cross-Country Skiing Centre is in the church village. It offers FIS-standard ski trails as well as changing rooms, showers and a ski waxing room. There are also café and timing facilities. Snowshoeing is also possible on the grounds of the Honkavaara Ski Centre. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are two different ways to explore the area on foot or on skis.

Those interested in fishing will find Puutiokoski on the upper reaches of the Keskijoki nearby, about 4 km from the church village. The rapids section, around 10 m wide, is surrounded by forest. Recommended fishing methods include light spinning tackle or a fly rod; target fish include grayling and trout.

There is also a connection to the water in the church village: the harbour is at Melatie 4 and has a boat ramp, a jetty and berths for hire, among other facilities. The municipal administration's customer service can provide information about the berths. If you include this option in your travel plans, the harbour is a useful point of reference in the church village.

Church and local history

Puolanka Church is in the municipality's central settlement area. It was completed and opened in 1954, and was designed by chief architect Olavi Sortta. Ecclesiastically, it belongs to the Diocese of Kuopio and the Kajaani Deanery. As a so-called Tiekirkko, or Roadside Church, it offers travellers a place to rest from early June to mid-August. The old churchyard, one of Puolanka's oldest visible historical monuments, is near the church and has not been used for over a hundred years.

Puolangan pessimistit ry is also part of local cultural life. According to its articles of association, the non-profit cultural association aims to promote, develop and preserve the cultural life and cultural production of Puolanka, as well as Puolanka pessimism. It also aims to raise Puolanka's profile and reputation.

Puolanka as a base

The municipality includes the Paljakka Tourist Centre, about a half-hour drive from the municipal centre.

More places at the same destination level: Vaala, Suomussalmi, Sotkamo, Paltamo, Vuokatti, Jormua, Ruhtinansalmi, Ristijärvi.

For the overview of the wider region: Kainuu.