Naruska: River, Karhutunturi and Fell Landscape

The villages of Naruska and Pulkkaviita lie in a landscape of sparse hills and fells, setting them apart from the rest of the Salla region. The river, trail and cultural heritage each add their own character: the Naruskajoki is a place for fishing, the UKK Trail crosses Karhutunturi, and Suoltijoen pirtti tells the story of forestry work. When looking for holiday accommodation in Naruska, it helps to first consider which of these will shape your stay.

River, Lakes and Swimming Beach

The Naruskajoki flows for around 50 kilometres from Naruskajärvi to its confluence with the Tenniöjoki at the southern edge of Naruska village. Both summer and winter fishing are possible on the river. Three bridges make it easier to cross the river when fishing from the banks; check their condition before your trip.

The lakes north of Naruska offer another fishing option, with opportunities for both fishing and ice fishing. Before setting out for these lakes, check the fishing regulations in force and any permits required. This lets you include the river and lakes as different focal points in your plans without overlooking the seasonal option of ice fishing. In Haltinmutka, there is a swimming beach next to the Naruska Village Association hut. Check the current conditions before swimming.

The UKK Trail and Karhutunturi

The UKK Trail runs through Naruska from north to south and crosses Karhutunturi. The trail is shown on current outdoor maps, including a 1:100,000-scale map of Salla–Savukoski; the markings on the ground are clear. If you plan to rely on a particular edition of the map, check that it is available beforehand.

A large wooden hut with a fireplace stands on the slope of Karhutunturi, where you can warm provisions and make coffee. If the condition of the facilities is important to your plans, check it on site. From the summit, views open up across the Lapland landscape in every direction. In snow-free conditions, the summit consists of boulder fields, which can be difficult to cross, especially when wet. Karhutunturi is also often windy in every season. For the summit section, the season, wet conditions and wind are all practical factors to consider when planning your day.

Kullaoja Falls and Rest Stops

Kullaoja Falls are near Naruska, in a forest beside a pond with clear water. From a signpost on Värriönpirtintie, a footpath of about 0.5 kilometres leads to the falls. Steps and a bench were built at the falls in spring 2018. If their condition is important to your visit, check it on site.

A rest stop with a fireplace is located at Naruskan Tammi, just after turning off Naruskantie in the direction of the falls. If you plan to stop there, check the condition of the fireplace on site. The waterfalls thus combine a forest and pond landscape with a clearly described footpath; the rest stop is a separate landmark to factor into your plans.

The History of Forestry Work in Naruska

Suoltijoen pirtti represents the final phase of the large forestry camps, before mechanised logging camps began operating with smaller crews. The building is part of Lapin uitto- ja savottatukikohdat, a nationally significant built cultural heritage site. Alongside fishing and the landscape, Naruska also offers a historical focal point: the history of forestry work complements the natural attractions with a glimpse into the region’s cultural history.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Enontekiö, Tornio, Patokoski, Sinettä, Kaamanen, Salla, Keminmaa, Utsjoki.

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