What's Currently Happening in Ruunaa Hiking Area
Check for Warnings
When forest and grass fire warnings (en.ilmatieteenlaitos.fi) are in effect, fire is only allowed at covered campfire sites that have a flue. A fire can be also lit in fireplaces at wilderness and other huts. Always use extreme caution when handling fire. The one who lights a fire is always responsible for its safe use. Please note, that making fire at these campfire sites can be banned locally.
Gathering at the campfire sites increases the risk of coronavirus infection. Guidelines concerning coronavirus COVID-19.
Ruunaa Outdoor -event on 26th August
(Updated on 22nd August 2023)
The National Youth Fishing Day will be celebrated at Ruunaa on Saturday, August 26th, from 10 AM to 4 PM at the Ruunaa Hiking Centre. The Ruunaa Outdoor event invites everyone from active hobbyists to families with children to enjoy various experiences offered by nature. The program includes activities such as fishing, canoeing, and hiking. The theme of the event is migratory fish in the Ruunaa waterways. For more detailed information in finnish about the event program and transportation, you can visit the Lieksa Town Center Association's event page.
Tetripuro Bridge is completed.
(Updated on June 19, 2023)
The bridge built over Tetripuro in Ruuna's Onkisuo is completed. It is now possible to cross the bridge again.
A fallen tree by the shore of Siikakoski blocks part of the passage at the moment.
(Updated 12.6.2023)
The tree has been cleared from the path, but removing it from the water will have to wait for the water level to decrease. Until then, we kindly ask for caution when navigating the waters of Siikakoski.
Neitikoski boardwalk bridge repair works will start next week.
(Updated 6th of June 2023)
At Neitikoski boardwalk bridge, repairs will be carried out on the most deteriorated sections. The repair work will begin next week and last for about a week. During the work, the boardwalk bridge will not be accessible in its full length, so customers are kindly asked to follow the on-site instructions.
Spring is progressing in Ruunaa
(Updated 17th of May 2023)
Most of the snow from the trails have melted and you can walk on the hiking trails again. It is still snowy and wet in places. Some of the trials are under water.
The Ruuna crossing boats will be moved into place today
(Updated 17th of May 2023)
Starting tomorrow, the Ruunaa crossing boats will be used by hikers again. The crossing boats at Airovirta, Naukuniemi and Vastuuniemi will be in use.
The crossing boats are usable at the demanding route of Koskikierros Circle Trail (31 km, northern and southern parts, crossing the river using simple suspension bridges). The crossing boats make shortcuts possible in the Koskikierros Circle Trail, by halving the trail in two shorter routes: Neitijärven kierros Trail (22 km, only the northern part, a boat crossing at Airovirta) and Vastuuniemen kierros Trail (11 km, only the southern part, a boat crossing at Murroojärvi, Vastuuniemi).
Check out Ruunaa's maps and trails when planning your hiking trip.
The Neitijoki bridge renovation is finished
(Updated 12th of June 2023)
The construction works on the Ruunaan Neitijoki Bridge are finished. The deck planks, railings with posts, and the "walking bridges" leading to the bridge have been renewed. It is now possible to travel along the bridge as usual.
Tips for the spring season excursions
(Updated 17th of May 2023)
- Familiarize yourself with The Outdoor Guide to Finland’s National Parks. You can find basic information, gear lists, safety tips, and destination suggestions for winter hikes. Read Outdoor Etiquette and Instructions and rules in the Ruunaa Hiking Area before heading out on your hike.
- For spring hikers, the most important thing is to stay warm and have enough energy. Layered clothing in sufficiently loose garments is a good start. Warm food and drinks help hikers stay warm. Be prepared for the hike with enough drinking water and energy-rich snacks.
- Ensure the safety of your hike. Always check the warnings in advance (en.ilmatieteenlaitos.fi). The Hiking Area may have some areas where the phone connection can be bad. Download the 112 Finland application (112.fi) to your phone. When an emergency call is made through the 112 Finland application, the emergency center attendant is automatically informed of the caller's location.
- There is almost 30 campfire sites in Ruunaa Hiking Area. You can also camp there.
- You can fish year round in Ruunaa. Ruunaa Rapids and the lakes between them are part of Metsähallitus recreational fishing area no. 7525, where a fisheries management fee (eräluvat.fi) is required along with an area-specific recreational fishing permit (no. 7525) (eräluvat.fi). Permits may also be purchased on the Metsähallitus Eräluvat web shop (verkkokauppa.eraluvat.fi).
- General wading ban is in effect at 1.9.-31.5.