Hossa National Park: A Finnish Wilderness Escape
Adventure Destination

Hossa National Park: A Finnish Wilderness Escape

Explore Hossa National Park's serene trails and canoe on Julma-Ölkky Canyon Lake, a Finnish wilderness 2 hours from Kuusamo. Ideal for adventure seekers, enjoy hiking, canoeing, and fishing in this remote, peaceful setting. Best visited in summer.

Hiking8.5/10Moderate
Photo Gallery

Category

Hiking

Typical Duration

2-4 hours

Difficulty

Moderate

About This Adventure Destination

Discover the tranquil beauty of Hossa National Park located in Jatkonsalmentie, Ruhtinansalmi, Finland. Known for its pristine waters and verdant forests, this natural haven offers visitors a serene retreat into Finland’s wilderness. Established as a national park in 2017, Hossa boasts a landscape shaped by its crystal-clear lakes, winding rivers, and lush pine forests.

One of the standout features of Hossa is the Julma-Ölkky Canyon Lake, a magnificent gorge with towering cliffs and reflective waters, providing a stunning backdrop for hikes and canoeing. The park is home to numerous ancient rock paintings, offering a peek into Finland’s ancient history, and is known for its rich biodiversity, including unique bird species and vibrant plant life.

Experience the distinct charm of Hossa as you wander through its serene trails and soak in its tranquil ambiance—a must-see for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Editorial Assessment

Hossa National Park receives an 85 for its stunning natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and unique ancient rock art. While it may not have global recognition akin to world-famous sites, its serene landscapes and adventure opportunities make it a hidden treasure for nature enthusiasts.

Hossa National Park: A Finnish Wilderness Escape

Adventure Guide to Hossa National Park: A Finnish Wilderness Escape

1

Hiking the Värikallio Trails

  • Overview:

    Location: Värikallio Cliffs Highlights: Enjoy a series of trails winding through dense forests and along picturesque lakes that lead to Finland's largest collection of ancient rock paintings. Tips:

  • Details:

    Best visited during the summer months.

  • Details:

    Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring a camera for capturing the stunning scenery.

  • Details:

    Directions: A 2-hour drive from Kuusamo airport.

2

Canoeing on Julma-Ölkky Canyon Lake

  • Overview:

    Location: Julma-Ölkky Lake Highlights: Paddle through this dramatic gorge, immersing yourself in the peacefulness of nature and the awe of towering rock formations. Tips:

  • Details:

    Kayaks and canoes are available for rental in the park.

  • Details:

    Ideal from May to September.

  • Details:

    Bring waterproof gear and a packed lunch.

3

Fishing in Lake Somerjärvi

  • Overview:

    Location: Lake Somerjärvi Highlights: Known for its clear waters and plentiful fish, it's perfect for an afternoon of quiet fishing. Tips:

  • Details:

    A valid fishing license is required.

  • Details:

    Equip yourself with fishing rods and tackle.

  • Details:

    Accessible via a 3-hour drive from Kajaani.

Reviews

U
Urpo Virtain the last week

The summer, autumn or spring was really great

E
Elli A-Pa week ago

Desolation of neat and unnecessary clutter had not accumulated in the corners. There was enough wood to heat the house and for cooking. Winter vacation at its best.

T
Tuomas4 months ago

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

K
Keijo Mallikainena month ago

Peaceful and easy to navigate.

J
James Cooka week ago

Hossa National Park, opened in 2017 to commemorate the centenary of Finnish independence, is a destination notable for its pristine nature and historical relevance. Located in the Kainuu region in the east of the country, the park encompasses vast pine forests and a network of crystal-clear lakes, ideal for year-round outdoor activities. One of the main attractions of the park is Julma-Ölkky, the largest canyon-shaped lake in Finland, formed more than 2 billion years ago. This stunning lake lies in a rift trench and is home to ancient cave paintings that offer a fascinating insight into shamanic practices of bygone eras. The park offers a variety of activities for visitors. The well-marked trails are perfect for hiking and mountain biking, while the lakes and rivers are ideal for canoeing and fishing. In addition, Hossa is accessible for people with reduced mobility, with adapted routes and services that facilitate visits for all audiences. Hossa's human history dates back to the first settlements in Scandinavia, and the rock paintings at Värikallio bear witness to the beliefs and rituals of the region's ancient inhabitants. Dating back thousands of years, these artistic representations offer a unique connection to the past and enrich the cultural experience of the park. To get to Hossa National Park, the most convenient option is to rent a car, as public transportation in the area is limited. The park is located approximately 80 kilometers south of Kuusamo, where the nearest airport is located. In short, Hossa National Park combines stunning natural landscapes with a rich cultural heritage, offering visitors a complete experience of adventure and discovery in the heart of Finnish nature.

Nearby Adventures

Bookable Experiences

Bucket‑List Arctic Winter: 3 Days in Kuusamo’s Frozen Wilderness35.6 mi
Kuusamo, North Ostrobothnia

Bucket‑List Arctic Winter: 3 Days in Kuusamo’s Frozen Wilderness

A curated 3-day, 2-night Kuusamo package that pairs frozen waterfalls, ice‑fishing and a reindeer‑farm visit with small‑group, authentic winter experiences — this guide explains the day‑by‑day flow and practical details.

35.6 miView Trips & Details →
Snow-Sculpted Trails and a Lapphund Guide: A Day in Riisitunturi National Park35.6 mi
Kuusamo, North Ostrobothnia

Snow-Sculpted Trails and a Lapphund Guide: A Day in Riisitunturi National Park

A 7-hour guided outing from Kuusamo with a 4-hour hike through snowy Riisitunturi, offering close-up winter landscapes and local natural history.

35.6 miView Trips & Details →
Three Arctic Days from Kuusamo: Frozen Waterfalls, Ice Fishing and Reindeer Encounters35.6 mi
Kuusamo, North Ostrobothnia

Three Arctic Days from Kuusamo: Frozen Waterfalls, Ice Fishing and Reindeer Encounters

A small-group, 3-day winter package that pairs Korouoma’s frozen cliffs, hands-on ice‑fishing and a visit to a northern reindeer farm with high‑quality photos included.

35.6 miView Trips & Details →
Traditional Finnish smoke sauna experience (Pyhäpiilo)35.7 mi
Kuusamo, Pohjois-Pohjanmaa

Traditional Finnish smoke sauna experience (Pyhäpiilo)

Step into the warmth of a traditional Finnish smoke sauna near Kuusamo, guided by an expert as you master the perfect löyly and refresh with a swim in a serene lake. Discover this unique blend of culture, nature, and wellness with Salonki Travels.

35.7 miView Trips & Details →
Finnish sauna experience (Tähtisauna open turn)36.5 mi
Kuusamo, Pohjois-Pohjanmaa

Finnish sauna experience (Tähtisauna open turn)

Discover the authentic Finnish sauna tradition with Salonki Travels in Kuusamo. From steam to ice-hole plunges, this experience blends cultural heritage with Arctic wilderness rejuvenation.

36.5 miView Trips & Details →
Taivalkoski Snowmobile Safari: Forest Trails and a Fire‑Cooked Lunch37.3 mi
Taivalkoski, Pohjois-Pohjanmaa

Taivalkoski Snowmobile Safari: Forest Trails and a Fire‑Cooked Lunch

A 3‑hour guided snowmobile tour in Taivalkoski that includes roughly 1.5 hours of riding on prepared trails and a wilderness campfire lunch.

37.3 miView Trips & Details →