North Ostrobothnia Kayaking Routes

Kodanovisen melontareitti is a multi-day lake tour in the Kodanovinen island maze on Etelä-Konnevesi, starting and finishing at Hanhitaipaleen kalasatama in Rautalampi, North Savo. Metsähallitus lists the outing on Luontoon.fi as part of the Southern Konnevesi paddling network; Etelä-Konnevesi.fi describes it as about 19 km over three days and two nights, rated medium difficulty, for independent paddlers who can read a map and camp on their own(1)(2). The route is not marked on land—navigation is by map and chart(2). Officials note the line was adjusted to run along the west side of Kodanovinen(2). Equipment hire is available at the harbour put-in(2); Visit Rautalampi’s KalajaRetkeily page covers self-service canoe and kayak rental from Hanhitaipale and Törmälä, guided paddling and hiking, and boat transport to a launch you choose(4). Rest stops with lean-tos and firewood service include Kaituri and Enonranta retkisatamat, where tent camping is possible(2)(3). Highlights along the way include the Kodanovinen archipelago, Saukkosaari tafoni formations, the Käpynänukko rock face, Varpusenlinna islet, and the Ristikivi boulder with a painted cross in Aittosalmi—described in detail with map links on Retkipaikka(3). The same article notes the first section overlaps the shorter Käpynän kierros paddling circuit before branching at Käpynänniemi, and that an optional side trip to Kalajanjärvi (Iso-Kalaja) leaves the official line through a narrow strait(3). Land only at designated landing places to protect fragile shores; landing on Taavetinsaari is banned during bird nesting from 15 April to 31 July(3). Melontakeskus.fi summarises Etelä-Konnevesi as one of Central Finland’s clearest paddling environments, with large open-water sections where wind and waves can build quickly(6)—plan weather windows and seek shelter early. For printable regional water maps, the Municipality of Rautalampi publishes outdoor PDFs alongside other trail layers(5). If you fish with rod and line from the kayak, check whether the state kalastonhoitomaksu and any regional association rules apply; Eräluvat sells the state fee online(7).

Hietasaaren kierros is about 7 km as a paddling loop around Hietasaari and the Nallikari–Toppila shoreline, mixing the Oulu River estuary with open sea off Nallikari beach. For the official route text, landing points, and the downloadable paddling map (updated March 2024), use the City of Oulu’s paddling routes page(1). The city describes a counter-clockwise loop as the recommended direction: from Nallikari beach through the narrow Mustasalmi channel to Hartaanselkä, then along Toppilansalmi past Pitkänmöljä back toward Nallikari(1). In Mustasalmi the channel runs through a lush shoreline setting; from Hartaanselkä you can see the bridges of the Oulujoki, and Toppilansalmi passes the developing Meri-Toppila waterfront(1). Off Nallikari you paddle on open sea where swell can be strong. If conditions are rough, you can start the trip from the Mustasalmi mouth landing instead—still on the same network of official landing spots(1). In Toppilansalmi the route partly follows a boat channel, so paddlers must give way to motor traffic(1). Designated landing places along the route include Nallikari, the Mustasalmi mouth, and Vaakunakylä marina(1). Allow about two hours in a kayak or roughly five hours on a SUP at an easy pace, as the city’s route list suggests(1). Visit Oulu’s Hietasaari area page summarises the island’s land‑uplift coast, old villa gardens, and bird‑rich shore meadows—useful context if you combine paddling with time on land(2). Along the water’s edge near the start, the route passes services and facilities tied to Nallikari and Hietasaari: the beach and sports shore at Nallikari, Loistokari bird platform, a campfire spot on Hietasaari, and later the Tukkisaaret grill area and Meri‑Toppila parks as you move through the estuary—see our map for exact stops. Shorter paddles that share the same water include Keskusta–Nallikari‑melontareitti 4 km, Oulu and Suiston kierros 4 km, Oulu; Hietasaaren ulkoilureitit is the main walking network on the island if you want to stretch your legs ashore. Nallikari Safaris rents stable kayaks and canoes from Nallikarinranta 10 (Aalto building) with paddles, spray decks, and life jackets; summer 2026 opening hours and tiered pricing (for example 2 hours from €32) are published on their rental page, and they can hand over boats at a Mustasalmi container if wind at the beach is too strong(3). For a guided alternative, Oulu Delta Kayaking Safari runs from the Nallikari experience centre through Mustasalmi into the Oulu River delta with instruction and safety briefing—suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike(4).

Pikisaaren kierros is a short, easy loop in the Oulujoki estuary that circles Pikisaari — an island of wooden houses, studios, and shoreline paths just below Oulu city centre in North Ostrobothnia. On the map the line is about 2.4 km; the City of Oulu describes the paddling circuit as roughly 2.5 km(1). For current descriptions, landing places, and the downloadable estuary paddling map, start from the City of Oulu’s paddling routes page(1). The usual put-in is described as Pikisaari’s north shore beside the swimming beach: from there you paddle around the island in sheltered channels, with views of the protected wooden-building zone, delta bridges, and the city — market square, theatre, library, and the Raatti sports area — as well as the renewed Kuusisaari side(1). Pikisaari itself is half open shoreline nature and half culture: artists’ workshops and restaurants ashore, and a sandy beach at the island tip that invites a swim on warm days(2). Between Pikisaari and Kuusisaari you pass close to event venues; in festival season you may hear music from shore(3). Toward the northern channel, Tukkisaaret Grillauspaikka offers a campfire spot if you land briefly on shore. Skill-wise this is a relaxed urban estuary loop suited to beginners and families; allow about 40 minutes in a kayak or around an hour on a SUP(1). Longer outings in the same area can be chained with other marked city routes such as Keskusta-Nallikari-melontareitti 4 km, Oulu, Hollihaan kierros 2,5 km, Oulu, or Suiston kierros 4 km, Oulu — all documented on the same official paddling pages(1). Kayaks and SUP boards are available from operators such as Nallikari Safaris (Finnaction) at Nallikari, with seasonal opening hours and optional handover at a Mustasalmi container site when the beach is windy(4). Visit Oulu also lists a beginner “Melonta tutuksi” introduction session on the estuary with instruction and equipment provided by the organiser(5). Wear a life jacket, watch for shallow spots and other traffic, and follow the safety notes on the official paddling material — including staying clear of power-station hazard zones called out on the city map(1). We drew colour from Lappis.fi’s write-up of estuary paddling in Oulu for the on-water atmosphere around Pikisaari and Kuusisaari(3).

Kuusamojärven Melontareitti is a long lake paddling tour on Kuusamojärvi east of Kuusamo in North Ostrobothnia. The City of Kuusamo publishes stage distances, landing places, and optional detours on its Kuusamojärven Melontareitti page—start there for the latest local guidance(1). The same story in English appears on the City of Kuusamo’s English Kuusamojärvi canoeing route page(2). On our map the route follows about 45.3 km as one continuous line along the water; the city’s published ring is often described as four main legs totalling roughly 31 km (about 8.6 km + 7 km + 9.3 km + 6.1 km) between Lahdentaus, Raatesalmi, Lahtela, Tolpanniemi marina, and Kelaranta, with room to add shorter island loops or a longer optional Porosari circuit when you plan from the official map(1)(2). Paddling unfolds through Pikku-Vihtasalmi, Tolpansalmi, and Kirkkolahti-style sheltered channels, with longer open crossings such as Mustanselkä where island groups give shelter before you reach the next landing(1). Along the mapped line you pass Raatesalmen laavu, Lahtelan kota, Tolpanniemen uimapaikka, Lahdentauksen uimapaikka, Kelanrannan rantauimala, Vihtasalmen lintutorni, and Nilojoen lintutorni—useful waypoints for breaks and wildlife watching(1). Near Lahtela, the Salpalinja, Lahtela-Vanttajan polku route is highlighted as a worthwhile shore walk from the water(1)(2). By Ronkaisenniemi, Ronkaisenniemen pallokenttä sits early on the line for those orienting from the south shore(1). Shoreside walking options near the sports complex include Historiapolku, Kirkkosaaren ulkoilureitti, and Kirkkosaaren kierros; Taajaman ympäryslatu is the winter ski circuit that shares some shoreline context(1). Ruka.fi notes that beginners can also start a shorter Kuusamojärvi outing from near the sports field shore in the town area, and that the wider Ruka–Kuusamo destination lists many kilometres of classified paddling routes and programme providers(4). For calmer practice and SUP, the city points to Samostenperä and the Kelaranta side of the lake, including the pontoon-bridge boating channel that creates a more sheltered paddling space for newcomers(1)(2). Luontoon.fi carries the same route name as a national outdoor route listing so you can cross-check the feature against other Finnish paddling data(3).

The Iijärvi–Hossa route is a point-to-point paddle of about 23.1 km from the Iijärvi end of the chain toward Hossa’s main lake and river network in North Ostrobothnia and Kainuu. For the exact water trail, maps, and service updates, start from the Iijärvi–Hossa route page on Luontoon.fi(1). Visit Suomussalmi describes put-in options from Lake Iijärvi on the western shore of Iso Ahvenlahti or from the Sakkojoki bridge on the Kuusamo road; an opening lake section of about 3 km leads into quieter water toward Iikoski, where the rapids run about 350 m with a 3.5 m drop. In low water the rapids are not runnable; even at normal levels you should inspect the upper part from shore before committing(2). Hossa.fi classifies Hossa-area rapids broadly as class I–II+, and recommends that less experienced paddlers scout class II lines from the bank before running them(3). Along the mapped line you pass infrastructure that supports a full day or an overnight: roughly mid-route, the Iikoski shore cluster includes parking, campfire sites, a swimming beach with a cooking shelter, the Iikoski wilderness hut, and the Huosiusjärvi wilderness hut. The Huosivirta and Jatkonsalmi area adds more parking, campfire sites, and carry-friendly shorelines toward Pikku-Hossa, with rental cabins, an accessible kayak jetty at Jatkonsalmi, and a dry toilet at Pikku-Hossa. Toward the Hossaari end, Keihäslampi and Huosilampi offer more landings and parking; Hossaari has parking, Seipiniemi lean-to, a sauna, and a rental cabin by the shore. At Jatkonsalmi and Hossanjärvi, the Jatkonsalmen esteetön melontalaituri and Hossanjärven esteetön melontalaituri support accessible landings. The long-distance mountain bike route Sininen saavutus shares some of the same shoreline near Iikoski and Huosivirta if part of your group wants to cycle while others paddle. Spring snowmelt generally brings the easiest water levels across Hossa’s paddling network; as summer progresses, levels can drop and shallow, stony sections become more common—plan put-in, scouting, and daily distance with the season in mind(3). Equipment and local advice are available from operators listed for the Hossa area on Visit Suomussalmi(2). The Metsähallitus Hossa vesiretkeilyopas publication summarises regional route types from short outings to multi-day trips(4).

The Kitkajoki whitewater canoeing route is a long point-to-point paddle on one of Finland’s best-known wilderness rivers in Kuusamo, North Ostrobothnia. Metsähallitus lists the route on Luontoon.fi as the national Kitkajoki whitewater canoeing entry(1). The mapped line is about 32.5 km: it runs from the Käylä area downstream through the Juuma reach and Oulanka National Park scenery toward take-out options on the lower river. City of Kuusamo groups local paddling information with other summer water routes(2). Independent paddlers often split the trip mentally into an upper and a lower half. Kuusamon Koskimelojat describe the Käylä–Juuma reach as roughly 13.7 km with a modest total drop spread across several class I–III rapids, laavu stops, and optional portages when you want to walk around a rapid(3). The lower Kitkajoki from Juuma toward the Oulankajoki confluence adds much more vertical in a shorter bank-to-bank distance: the same guide quotes about 18 km with very serious rapids, including the mandatory portage at Jyrävä and long canyon scenery inside Oulanka(3). Retkipaikka’s Oulanka packrafting series treats Kitkajoki’s upper and lower sections as separate undertakings and stresses scouting, portaging, and group safety on the lower canyon run(4). Along the water, the route passes clusters of lean-tos, campfire sites, and day shelters that also appear on hiking trails. Near Pyöreälampi and Myllykoski you intersect Pieni karhunkierros: Myllykosken päivätupa, Siilastupa, and the Jyrävä rest shelters sit where hikers and paddlers share the same shoreline. Jyrävä is treated as unrunnable for normal canoe and kayak traffic; use Koskenlaskijoiden polku to move boats past the drop(3)(4). Below that, Harrisuvanto is a long, busy rest area on both water and Kalastajien polku Harrisuvantoon; further down, Pähkänän laavu, Vennäänmutkan laavu, and Ylikota mark another popular stop band before the river eases toward Kitkajokihaaran laavu and the Likokangas campfire area at the far end. Commercial rafting and instruction providers work the same river corridor with daily departures from Käylä and Juuma; those trips are a separate service from private paddling but illustrate how the river is commonly segmented (family upper section vs. longer lower trips)(6). Oulangan Taika advertises canoe, whitewater kayak, and packraft options on Kitkajoki with transport and equipment packages centred on the Käylä–Juuma corridor and longer packraft journeys with portage past Jyrävä when continuing downstream(5).

The Livojoki River paddling route is a long point-to-point river journey on one of the Iijoki system’s major free-flowing side rivers in North Ostrobothnia and Lapland, mapped at about 118 km as one continuous line. Livojoki rises from clear headwater lakes near Posio and joins the Iijoki main stem in the Pudasjärvi church area; the full river is on the order of 130 km and is largely undeveloped, with many rapids and long lake-like pools(2). For rapid-by-rapid guidance on the Pudasjärvi reach—including passages such as Kilsikoski, Karjalainenkosket, Viisioikea, Seitenoikea, and Louhikoski with class I–III lines and notes on lining or wading when water is low—the City of Pudasjärvi publishes a detailed Finnish-language description aimed at canoeists and kayakers(1). Livojoki ry offers printable PDF maps for key segments such as Livo–Posonoja–Rytinki–Sarajärvi and for rapid clusters including Vääräkoski–Korvakoski–Hillikoski, which helps with paper backup away from mobile coverage(3). If you fish from the boat on the state licence area that runs from Livojärvi to Ylimmäinen Lehmikoski and includes the Mäntyjoki branch, buy the correct Eräluvat permit and respect fly-only and seasonal rules on the upper perhokalastus stretch(4). Independent writing on Muurahaisten poluilla describes beach camps, Hirsiniemen hiking connections, and canoe hire options on Livojärvi that pair well with trips that start in the headwater lake area(5). Near Syöte, commercial outfitters advertise shorter Pärjänjoki canoe stages that can be extended toward the Livojoki mouth for a staged Koillismaa week(6). Along the route you pass landing beaches, lean-tos, and a wilderness hut cluster suited to multi-day pacing: about 20 km in, Kynkään landing and a fire ring; in the Livon village reach near 36–39 km, landings and lean-tos at Livon and Sammalmutka; around 62 km the Jokihaara and Kilsikoski area with lean-tos and the Karjalainen autiotupa and fire ring; near 94 km Haapalan landing and lean-to; and toward 109 km Hillinsuvanto landing and lean-to before the river opens toward Iijoki. Where the bank meets the Iijoki paddling corridor, you can link onward miles on the Iijoki River paddling route or compare planning with the parallel Pärjänjoki paddling route network from the Syöte side.

Hollihaan kierros is a short, easy loop in the Oulu river estuary in North Ostrobothnia: the mapped line on our page is about 2.3 km as one circuit, while the City of Oulu describes the same route at roughly 2.5 km on its kayaking routes page(1). For current safety wording, seasonal notes, and the downloadable estuary paddling map, start from the City of Oulu’s kayaking routes page and the updated PDF map(1)(2). You can begin from Kiikeli or Varsasaari and paddle among the small islands off Hollihaka with the market square waterfront in view; the leafy Sonnisaari island can be circled by boat, and the renewed Hollihaan park reads differently from the water than from land(1). Oulun matka’s paddling and SUP overview summarises the estuary network and points to the same official map for planning(3). Lappis.fi’s article on estuary paddling routes adds colour for visitors: it describes channels between the market and Kiikeli, a passage toward Hollihaka small-craft harbour, and a landing on Varsasaari intended for this kind of circuit, and notes that the route stays relatively sheltered on breezier days(4). Along the shore you pass a dense slice of city life: festival lawns and sports areas on Kuusisaari, the Raatti stadium shore, and—right next to Hollihaka—the Hollihaan outdoor cluster with skate park, parkour zone, and outdoor gym, all easy to spot from the water when you glide past. If you want a longer day on the water, the same neighbourhood connects naturally to other marked estuary circuits such as Pikisaaren kierros or the Keskusta–Nallikari route. Treat the estuary like shared traffic: off Kiikeli and Hollihaka the line runs partly along boat channels where paddlers must give way, and the city recommends a counterclockwise circuit so you can ride favourable current on sections that follow the main flow(1). Wear a buoyancy aid, watch shallows and rocks, carry a phone in a dry bag, and stay well away from the Merikoski power plant zone, which the city marks as extremely hazardous on its general paddling guidance(1)(3).

This is a classic downstream paddle on the Oulankajoki through Oulanka National Park in Kuusamo, North Ostrobothnia: about 25 km point-to-point from the Mataraniemi–Kiutaköngäs put-in to the take-out at Jäkälämutka. Metsähallitus describes the river corridor—candle-spruce forest, sandy banks, and botanical interest—and publishes route information on Luontoon.fi(1); a printable overview map is also available as a Metsähallitus PDF(2). Independent operators in Kuusamo market the same line as an easy family day trip, typically budgeting 6–7 hours on the water(3)(4). Retkipaikka’s round-up of strong paddling lines in the park gives extra context if you are comparing this lower section with other Oulanka water routes(5). The trip begins in the broad pool below Kiutaköngäs, at Oulankajoki, Kiutakönkään vesillelaskupaikka. From Mataraniemi you soon pass campfire spots such as Mataraniemen tulentekopaikka 1; a few kilometres in, Merenojan tulentekopaikka makes a natural early break. Around 8 km you reach Nurmisaarenniemi: Oulankajoki, Nurmisaarenrinteen vesillelaskupaikka, the Nurminiemi P-alue car park if you need road access, and Ansakämppä autiotupa—a wilderness hut with sleeping space that many paddlers use as an overnight option. Short canoe chutes (Nurmisaaren kanootinkuljetus ränni, Nurmirinne kanoottiränni) let you move past shallows or banks without lining long distances. Mid-route, Sirkkapuro laavu and the nearby fireplace cluster offer a sheltered half-way stop; Aitaniityn vuokratupa sits a little farther down. Toward the lower river, Alaniemi laavu is a late-day rest before the finish at Jäkälämutkan tulentekopaikka, Jäkälämutkan puolikota, and Oulankajoki, Jäkälämutkan vesillelaskupaikka—within the Finnish border zone near the Russian frontier, so treat permits and signage seriously and check current official guidance(1). On land, the Kiutaköngäs–Mataraniemi visitor hub ties into several short hiking loops: Könkään kuohu esteetön polku and Könkään keino pass the same riverbank infrastructure, while Hiiden Hurmos kesäretkeilyreitti and Hiiden hurmos explore the rapids–visitor-centre area on foot—handy if your group splits between paddling and walking.

kMelontareitti Kärsämäki is a point-to-point kayaking line on Lake Pyhäjärvi in the Pyhäjoki main catchment of North Ostrobothnia. On our map it is about 33.3 km as one continuous paddling path, not a loop. Järvi-meriwiki, using Finnish Environment Institute data, describes Pyhäjärvi as the largest lake lying entirely within the region, with an open-water area of about 121.8 km², roughly 245 km of shoreline, and more than a hundred islands—so crossings can feel wide and wind matters more than on a narrow river(1). The line is anchored in everyday recreation around Kärsämäki and the shared lake shore: early on you pass the Rannankylä sports-field area, then mid-route Nuttuperän laavu offers a sheltered forest lean-to stop, and toward the Venetpalo end of the line you reach paired swimming beaches and a lean-to that locals use for short hikes and ski-trail access in winter as well as summer lake days. Visit Kärsämäki notes that the municipality lends large open canoes for two paddlers from the library with a library card—useful if you are pairing a shorter outing with equipment you do not own(2). Haapajärvi and Kärsämäki both sit in the same broad lake-and-river outdoor network: Visit Haapajärvi publishes separate Kalajoki-basin paddling products such as the Ancient Päijänne route through village landings, which illustrates how landing places, lean-tos, and village services are documented in this area even when the water body differs from this mapped line(3). Where our geometry runs close to land trails, the Haapavesi–Pyhäjärvi village bike route and the Kärsämäki–Nivala cycling link share some shoreline facilities—handy if part of your group meets you by bike. Treat wide-lake weather seriously: plan crossings with forecast wind, carry signalling gear and spare warmth, and respect private shorelines when landing outside public beaches. If you fish from the kayak, buy permits through Eräluvat or another official channel for the water you are on(4).

The City of Oulu publishes full route notes, safety reminders, and a downloadable paddling map PDF alongside its other Oulujoki estuary circuits(1). Visit Oulu highlights the same Keskusta–Nallikari line in its outdoor routes hub as a way to move from the city centre toward Nallikari’s sandy beach through green shoreline(2). Nallikari Lomakylä’s paddling pages point to that municipal map and describe kayak, canoe, and fishing kayak hire from Nallikari Safaris at the beach end of the line during the main summer season(3). As mapped, the route is about 4 km one way and is not a loop: it links the market area and Kiikeli with Nallikari along the southwestern side of Pikisaari, threads through the smaller islands of the estuary, passes the narrow Mustasalmi strait, and opens toward the sea at Nallikari. Along the way you pass the market front, Pikisaari’s protected wooden-house milieu, and the contrast between sheltered channels and more exposed water off the beach. About one kilometre along the line, Tukkisaaret Grillauspaikka offers a campfire spot on the wooded islands; farther on, Hietasaaren tulentekopaikka sits near the Hietasaari shore, and Loistokarin lintulava gives a quiet birdwatching stop before the beach hotels. Nallikarin uimaranta is the natural landing at the northern Riviera end, with spa and holiday-village services nearby including Oulun kylpylähotelli Eden. Nallikari Safaris runs guided estuary safaris that use Mustasalmi and the island maze toward the city-side waterfront, with briefings for beginners and alternative launch plans if wind picks up at the beach(4). The land alternative along the same shore is the Pyöräilyn pääreitti 12 Oulu–Nallikari cycling backbone, useful if part of your group stays ashore. Oulu lies on the Bothnian Bay coast in North Ostrobothnia; this line is one of the shortest ways to experience the delta by paddle without committing to a long coastal crossing.

Melontareitti Venekarin päivätuvalle is about 4.4 km on our map as a sheltered sea-kayak loop in the Rahja archipelago off Kalajoki in North Ostrobothnia, centred on Venekari island and its day-use shelter. Visit Kalajoki's paddling overview names Venekarin päivätupa as a typical break spot in these waters alongside Koivukari and other public lean-tos(1), and Visit Kalajoki's Rahja archipelago page explains land-uplift shores, traditional coastal landscapes, and where to hire kayaks at Konikarvo harbour(2). Mid-loop, roughly 2.4 km from the recorded start, the Venekari cluster brings together a wilderness hut, a campfire site, and dry toilets in one compact landing—ideal for lunch or a longer pause before you continue. Further along the trace, around 3.4 km, Kuusimällä laavu sits with its own facilities a short carry from the water, giving a second rest option on a different islet group before you close the loop. The water is brackish Bothnian Bay: rocky islets, inner sounds, and summer motorboat traffic—give way, wear a life jacket, and watch wind and swell. You can extend the day by linking to Melontareitti Hevoskariin toward the western archipelago, follow Rahjan epävirallinen melontareitti for a longer informal passage through inner channels, or align with Rahjan saariston veneilyreitit where you want to share the city-maintained fairway. The City of Kalajoki maintains Rahja's marked boating route, checks aids to navigation each June before Midsummer, quotes draught along the fairway at roughly 0.8–1.8 m, and reminds boaters and paddlers that travel is at your own risk(3). Between 15 April and 31 July, kayaking and boating are prohibited in some water areas, and landing or moving ashore is banned on certain islands to protect nesting birds—check the city's boating page each season before planning a shore visit(3). Rahjan saaristo is a large Natura 2000 complex; the Natura site description for Rahjan saaristo summarises land-uplift shores, bird-rich islets, and sensitive habitats worth treating lightly(5). The Luontoon.fi entry for Rahja boating routes lists the same Kalajoki circuit as a boating-route entry for map context and orientation(6).

The Kostonjoki River Paddling Route is roughly 34.8 km of river and lake paddling on Kostonjoki, a high-volume northern tributary of the Iijoki River that lies entirely within Taivalkoski in North Ostrobothnia. Visit Taivalkoski's River Kostonjoki page(1) describes the river from regulated Lake Kostonjärvi to its confluence with Iijoki near the parish village: plentiful rapids and calmer pools, with Lake Koitijärvi in the middle changing the feel between upper and lower sections. The Municipality of Taivalkoski notes that both Iijoki and Kostonjoki are paddled through the summer, with wilderness scenery and many small rapids supporting short outings and longer trips(2). Along the first few kilometres from the Taivalkoski side, the Taivalvaara outdoor area sits beside the water: Turvakonalustan laavu and Lintutorni (Taivalvaaran luontopolku) are within easy reach of the shore, and Keski-Väkevän laavu follows a little farther — practical stops before longer open-water and rapid sections. The same bank links to the walking route Nappaskenkäreitti and Taivalvaaran luontopolku, and the put-in for Melontareitti Taivalkoski-Jurmu on Iijoki sits in the same paddling hub for paddlers who want to combine rivers. Kostonjoki is a serious moving-water journey: expect continuous rapids and eddies named in local materials (including Ulmajankoski and the Korpua and Koitila areas upstream of Koitijärvi, and Koitikoski, Kutinkoski, Kypäräkoski, Rääpänkoski, Kaupinkoski and Pyörrekoski in various sectors). Visit Taivalkoski(1) notes foot access to several rapids from the banks and a boat ramp on the north shore of Koitijärvi. Plan skills, scouting, and portaging for your group; this is not a sheltered lake circuit. Fishing is a major use of the water: several local fishing associations sell permits for different reaches, and Metsähallitus rapids may need a separate state angling permit — see Eräluvat angling permit pages(3) for the right permit area and catch rules. Check current rules before you pack tackle. Equipment and coaching: Taivalkoski Canoeing Centre(4) rents whitewater and touring kayaks and SUP boards, runs courses and camps, and can advise on conditions.

The Rahja Archipelago boating routes are a long day or overnight paddling and small-boat line—about 26.6 km on our map—in the Bothnian Bay off Kalajoki, threading through roughly a hundred islets and skerries between sheltered inner basins and more exposed outer rocks. Visit Kalajoki describes the archipelago as a summer destination for fishing, kayaking, SUP, and winter ski or ice-fishing trips, and points to Metsähallitus for deeper nature guidance(1). The Rahjan saaristo destination page on Luontoon.fi is the place to check Metsähallitus landing areas, services, and responsible access on the water(2). The Natura 2000 site description for Rahjan saaristo explains why the mosaic matters: land uplift has left ancient shorelines, lagoons, and drumlin-like islands that host rare plants and rich birdlife in meadows, islets, and shallow bays(3). Metsähallitus Merellä’s EMMA feature highlights Rahja as an example of geodiversity on the land-uplift coast—worth reading if you like context for the rock shapes and basins you paddle past(7). On the water you move between calm inlets and more open fetches toward the outer skerries; wind and swell can change quickly, so plan crossings and breaks with weather in mind. About 13 km along the line you reach the Putkikari and Koivukari area: campfire spots, a lean-to, and a wilderness hut cluster make this a natural lunch or overnight zone, and the route links logically to the shorter Melontareitti Hevoskariin if you want a focused side trip toward Hevoskari. Further along, near the Venekari and Kuusimällä stops, you find another hut, day-shelter, and lean-to grouping—Visit Kalajoki’s paddling overview names Venekarin päivätupa and Koivukarin autiotupa as key shelters in the archipelago, and the same pages note Safaritalo’s guided trips into Rahja and Siiponjoki(1)(6). The unofficial Rahjan epävirallinen melontareitti and the short Melontareitti Venekarin päivätuvalle share many of the same landings if you want alternative lines in the same waters. Dry toilets sit with the main stop clusters, so you can plan longer legs without guessing where basic sanitation is. City of Kalajoki boating services pages list maintained channel depths (about 0.8–1.8 m on the marked boating route), annual buoy checks before midsummer, and seasonal restrictions that can prohibit boating and paddling in some zones from mid-April through late July to protect nesting birds—read the current rules before you launch(4). Fishing permits for the archipelago are sold locally; Visit Kalajoki mentions Tapion Tupa as a permit outlet with a phone contact(1). Kalajoki lies in North Ostrobothnia. North Ostrobothnia’s open coast toward the Bothnian Bay makes archipelago trips like this a natural fit. For equipment, Kalajoen Latu rents single and tandem kayaks from the Konikarvon paddling dock; the association’s activities page describes Rahja’s landings with laavut and wilderness huts and gives practical access notes(5).

This point-to-point line follows Hirvasjoki in the Iijoki headwaters between Puolanka and Pudasjärvi in North Ostrobothnia, linking the Iinattijoki–Korentojärvi chain toward the main Iijoki and parallel paddling corridors. City of Pudasjärvi’s water-touring hub lists Iinattijoki among the municipality’s popular paddling rivers, links paddlers to the national LIPAS database for landing and rest coordinates, and frames how cultural landscapes line many of the area’s free-flowing water routes(1). Hirvaskoski farm, beside the river in Hirvaskoski village, describes Hirvasjoki as a practical kayaking and rowing corridor: you can continue toward the river Iijoki or visit lake Korentojärvi, and you may bring your own craft or hire a boat or touring kayaks when you book your stay(2). On our map the route is about 8.2 km as one continuous line, not a loop. Near the upstream end, the Antti Holmström landing on Puolangantie gives a straightforward put-in or take-out; within a few hundred metres the Hirvaskoski shore clusters a campfire site and two boat-landing spots—handy if you coordinate shuttles or mix paddling with a shore lunch. Further along, Malmiran ranta adds another landing off Puolangantie before the line reaches the Luvelahti landing toward the northern shore of the wider basin—useful for splitting the day or meeting a support vehicle on Tölväkkeentie. Land and water networks meet here: the long Syöte–Kurenalus hiking route (Kannonnousu) passes the same Hirvaskoski shore facilities as the paddling line, so canoe groups and hikers can share campfire logistics. The Iinattijoki water touring route and the Iijoki river touring route are natural extensions if you are planning multi-day links in the headwaters; Hirvaskosken latu and Hirvaskosken kuntorata run near the school and sports cluster for a short winter ski or running loop when you are off the water.

Pyhäjoki River kayaking route follows a continuous line of about 17.7 km along one of Northern Ostrobothnia’s main canoe rivers. The Pyhäjoki runs roughly 166 km from Lake Pyhäjärvi to the Gulf of Bothnia through six municipalities, and the lower valley mixes wide pools with famous rapids and long histories of timber floating and hydropower(4)(5). Visit Raahe describes the river as a place where anglers and paddlers seek out lively rapids and quieter reaches between open fields and forested banks(1). On our map this segment is a one-way river run from the Kielopuisto–Etelä-Houru put-in area in Pyhäjoki town toward the Pyhänkoski countryside on the Merijärvi side. Within the first kilometre you pass Hourunkosken kota beside Hourunkoski—one of the river’s major drops—then continue through Pirttikoski village, where Pirttikosken uimaranta offers a swimming beach break. Around the mid-route mark, both banks of Kupuliskoski host kota sites with fireplaces and dry toilets, useful for a longer pause before the final approach to Pyhänkosken kaukalo and Mustoslähteen kota at the mapped finish. Expect to plan portages around dams and power plants on the wider Pyhäjoki system: Finnish Wikipedia lists several plants along the river and notes legal protection for free-flowing rapids on the lower course, which shapes how water levels feel in the pocket below Merijärvi(4). The City of Pyhäjoki promotes large-scale river culture through Soiva joki and the returning Pyhäjoki-melonta event, where residents are invited onto the water with canoes, kayaks, or SUP boards along the full 166 km between municipalities(2). The Municipality of Merijärvi has co-hosted pop-up paddling days on the lower river with timed stops such as Kalaputaan and service at Pyhänkosken kioski—useful context for how local communities time river days, even when you paddle independently(3). Land trails such as Rajaniemen reitti, Tervon reitti, Saaren lenkki, and Pyhäjoen penkkatiet share the same river corridor for hikers and cyclists; the international Flatland Route cycling ring also touches the same beaches and kota when you want to combine modes.

The City of Oulu publishes the Suiston kierros circuit with timings, safety notes, and a downloadable paddling map PDF on its paddling routes hub, alongside the other Oulujoki estuary loops(1). Visit Oulu highlights the same route in its outdoor routes list as city channels, narrow passages, island sides, and passages under bridges(2). Lappis, which runs guided estuary safaris in the area, describes this loop as the one most often used on instructor-led trips and names extra shoreline stops and services in a longer route article worth scanning for trip ideas(3). As mapped, the circuit is about 4.5 km around the Oulujoki estuary. The municipal description treats it as a 4 km loop taking roughly an hour in a kayak or two hours on a SUP, starting from Kiikeli, Pikisaari, or Varsasaari(1). You pass the market front, paddle along the northeast side of Pikisaari toward Sorsasaari, where you can circle the island, then move between Hietasaari and the Kiramo and Tiirasaari islets toward the Hollihaa channels before threading back through small islands toward Kiikeli; you can also circle Sonnisaari(1). Along the city shore you pass Raatin stadion and the Raatti swimming hall frontage, then Kuusisaaren kuntoilupaikka and the wider Kuusisaari recreation shore where summer festival sound sometimes carries across the water(3). Around Korkeasaaren tenniskentät (8 kpl) and the Tukkisaaret Grillauspaikka cluster you are in the wooded island maze east of the centre; farther north the line reaches Hollihaan ulkokuntoilupaikka and the leafy Hollihaa park shore before closing the loop. Off Hollihaa the route partly follows a boat lane: you must give way to powered craft(1). The Pikisaaren kierros 2,5 km, Oulu and Keskusta-Nallikari-melontareitti 4 km, Oulu routes share many of the same channels for shorter outings, and the Pyöräilyn pääreitti 12 Oulu-Nallikari cycling spine follows the waterfront if part of your group stays on land. North Ostrobothnia meets the Bothnian Bay here; Oulu is the regional hub, and this loop is a compact way to read the suisto by paddle without a long open-sea crossing.

The Taivalkoski–Jurmu kayaking route is a roughly 23 km point-to-point paddle on the main stem of River Iijoki in North Ostrobothnia, running downstream from the Taivalkoski settlement area toward the Jurmu village reach. The mapped line follows a free-flowing boreal river corridor where Visit Taivalkoski promotes paddling as a signature summer activity and points visitors to route descriptions for Iijoki sectors including links between Jokijärvi and Jurmu(1). The upper part of this corridor sits in the same broad rapids-rich environment that Visit Taivalkoski’s Iijoki rapids page documents between Lake Jokijärvi and Taivalkoski town—about 20 km of river with 22 named rapids or swift-current sections, forest roads reaching the banks, and many lean-tos and campfire places shared by fishers and paddlers(2). Downstream toward Jurmu, Iijoen vesillä describes the Jurmu II waters: in Jurmu village the river runs for about 11 km as alternating rapids and wide current, with Pirinkoski, Koivukoski, and the long Jurmunkoski among the named reaches, boat launches near the road bridge, and a rest stop on the east bank for fishers—terrain that matches the shelter cluster at Pirinkoski toward the end of our mapped line(3). The large northern tributary Kostonjoki, entirely within Taivalkoski municipality and regulated from Lake Kostonjärvi, joins the Iijoki near the town—Visit Taivalkoski’s Kostonjoki page summarises its rapid names and access from route 20 for context when planning multi-day combinations(4). On the water you pass lean-tos and day-stop shelters spaced along the bank: early on, Keski-Väkevän laavu sits in riverside forest; closer to Taivalvaara outdoor hill you are near Turvakonalustan laavu and the bird tower on Taivalvaaran luontopolku for a possible short shore break; mid-route Ohtaojan laavu and later Atsingin laavu support longer breaks; toward Jurmu, Pirinkosken kota and the nearby service building offer a natural finish area before village access roads. Rapids on Iijoki in this region are often class I–II in normal summer flows on comparable published segments, but water level changes which lines are runnable—scout from shore, portage or line boats when in doubt, and paddle in a group with helmet and buoyancy aid on whitewater as standard practice(2). For equipment and instruction, City of Taivalkoski runs Taivalkosken melontakeskus at the sports area on Urheilutie, renting whitewater and touring kayaks and SUP boards and hosting courses and events(5). We drew colour from Kermankuorijat’s long Iijoki trip write-up for how variable wind, rapids, and shore infrastructure feel on this river system—worth reading for candid on-the-ground pacing and campsite choices(6). Nearby mapped routes include the Kostonjoen melontareitti where it overlaps the main-stem corridor, the Jokijärvi–Taivalkoski lake-to-town kayak line for a different one-way profile, and walking loops on Taivalvaara such as Taivalvaaran luontopolku and Nappaskenkäreitti if you want to stretch your legs before or after paddling.

This point-to-point line follows Iinattijärvi and Iinattijoki in the Iijoki watershed south of Iso-Syöte in Pudasjärvi, North Ostrobothnia, tying lake paddling on a fragmented, island-dotted sheet to a modest river run toward the Korentojärvi–Hirvasjoki link to the main Iijoki. City of Pudasjärvi’s water-touring hub lists Iinattijoki among the municipality’s popular paddling rivers and points paddlers to LIPAS for landing and rest sites along local water routes(1). The lake–river chain sits in the same broader permit and management framing as the Iinattijoki–Hirvasjoki–Naamankajoki fishing water when you plan to fish from the boat—check current licence rules before you cast(4). On our map the route is about 18.7 km as one continuous line, not a loop. It starts from the Iinattijärvi village end of the lake: near the old school you can use the grill shelter, a boat launch, and a landing along Pohjoispuolentie and Eteläpuolentie before the channel heads downstream. Further along, Saukkolampi offers both a landing and a laavu for a longer shore break; the same laavu sits on the long Syöte–Kurenalus hiking route (Kannonnousu), so land and water trips intersect here for groups splitting days between canoe and backpack. Downstream, the line approaches the Hirvasjoki water-touring route and the Naamankajoki paddling routes that thread Naamankajärvi and Taimenmutka—useful if you are stitching multi-day loops in the Iijoki headwaters. Järviwiki’s Syke-based lake sheet for Iinattijärvi records open-water character and scale in this sub-basin(3). For village services, road access, and how the Iinattijärvi settlement sits on highway 20 toward Syöte, the regional “Järjen äärellä” village page is a readable planning companion(2).

The Muinais-Päijänne route is a calm lake-and-river paddle through Haapajärvi’s main waterway network, following the outlet valley that once drained prehistoric Lake Päijänne toward the ancient Baltic. On the map the line is about 15,5 km point-to-point from Kumiseva to Oksava; municipal pages describe the same trip as roughly 14 km, so treat the mapped distance as the working figure for planning. For step-by-step put-in directions, landing points, and rock hazards, start from the City of Haapajärvi’s Muinais-Päijänteen melontareitti page(1). The Kylien yhteiset reitit pages explain how three villages—Kumiseva, Siiponkoski, and Autioranta-Oksava—co-developed the project and stress that the paddling line is not marked or signposted on land, so you navigate by water and local knowledge(2). Matkalla Suomessa highlights Siiponkosken Jokikeskus and other Haapajärvi sights for visitors combining paddling with an overnight stay(3). From Honkaniemi on Mustolanjärvi the water is sheltered and forest-fringed; Vonganjoki and Ylipäänjärvi open into rolling farmland before the river becomes Kalajoki through the town. About halfway by distance you pass central Haapajärvi, where the city names official landing options near Karjalahden kartano and Ronkaalan urheilukeskus. Downstream, Siiponkoski feels almost island-like—you can pass on either side of mid-channel shoals—before a quieter rural reach to Settijoen uimaranta at Oksava. There are no whitewater sections; the main caution is shallow rocks in the Ylipäänjärvi narrows near the former Lemmensilta bridge site, and more rocks approaching Siiponkosken Jokikeskus, especially after the old bridge was damaged in December 2020. At Siiponkoski you can break at Siiponkosken Jokikeskus (fire place, toilets, catering by arrangement) and at Myllynketo kota a short walk away; Settijoen uimaranta offers a landing, kota, and dry toilet. On shore, Kumpujen reitti luontopolku and the shorter Kumpujen reitti walking loop meet the same riverbank area, and the long Kylätalolta kylätalolle maastopyörä-/pyöräreitti crosses the Perälänkuja–Honkaniemi part of the valley—useful context if friends are exploring by bike while you paddle.

Rahjan epävirallinen melontareitti is an informal paddling line about 9.8 km long through sheltered inner channels of the Rahja archipelago off Kalajoki in North Ostrobothnia. It is not the same as the city-maintained, buoyed boating fairway: think of it as a suggested sea-kayak passage linking resting points that also appear on shorter, named trips in the same island maze. For archipelago-wide context, services, and rental contacts, Visit Kalajoki’s Rahja archipelago page is the clearest tourism entry point(1), and the paddling overview names Venekari day shelter, Koivukari wilderness hut, and several public lean-tos as typical break spots in the area(2). Along our mapped line, the first main cluster sits near Venekari about 2.3 km from the recorded start: a wilderness hut, campfire site, and dry toilets sit close together—handy for a first break before pushing toward the more open sounds. Around 4 km along, the route passes the Alajoenkari lean-to area on a wooded islet; a little farther, near Kuusimällä roughly 7 km from the start, another lean-to cluster with nearby dry toilets supports a longer pause or an overnight bivouac under everyman’s rights, respecting private shores and nesting restrictions. The water is brackish Bothnian Bay archipelago: rocky islets, reed-fringed bays, and occasional motorboat traffic—give way, keep a life jacket on, and watch the weather. You can stitch this passage into longer days using Melontareitti Venekarin päivätuvalle for a compact hop to Venekari’s day shelter, Rahjan saariston veneilyreitit for the full signposted boating circuit, Melontareitti Hevoskariin toward the western Hevoskari island, or Laajakallio–Kurkikarvonsalmi–Alajoenkarin laavu if you want a short variant centred on Alajoenkari. The City of Kalajoki maintains Rahja’s marked boating route, checks buoys each June before Midsummer, and reminds boaters and paddlers that draught along the fairway is roughly 0.8–1.8 m and that you travel at your own risk(3). Between 15 April and 31 July, kayaking and boating are prohibited in some water areas, and landing or moving ashore is banned on certain islands to protect nesting birds—check the city’s boating page each season before planning a shore day(3). Rahjan saaristo is a large Natura 2000 complex; the site description summarises land-uplift shores, bird-rich islets, and sensitive habitats worth treating with a light touch(5).

The Pärjänjoki paddling route is a long point-to-point river journey of about 66 km on the map, following the Pärjänjoki through North Ostrobothnia from the Syöte fells area toward the Livojoki confluence. For a rapid-by-rapid list with Finnish Canoe Federation style class notes and practical river character, the City of Pudasjärvi’s Pärjänjoki page is the place to start planning and risk assessment(1). The Syöte destination site’s water-activities overview adds a well-known shorter segment inside Syöte National Park—about 22 km from Kuivakoski via Toraskoski and Annintupa to Harriranta—with class I–II water as classified by the Finnish Canoe Federation, put-in at Kuivakoski bridge with signage, and a map sold at Syöte Nature Centre(2). A Retkipaikka trip report from the Syöte section captures what paddling here feels like in practice: wildlife along the banks, occasional wading in very low summer water, and the rhythm of pools and rapids between bends(3). On the mapped line you move through forested river scenery typical of this part of the Iijoki basin. Early on you pass the Isoniemi cluster with a campfire site and a bookable kota. Kuivakosken rantautumispaikka is a classic access point—Pudasjärvi’s notes highlight Kuivakoski rapid and the nearby road bridge as a practical launch. Farther down, Toraskosken landing and campfire sit in the same reach as busy winter trails: the Syötteen ladut ski network and several hiking and biking circuits meet this valley, so land services are unusually strong for a wilderness-style river. Annintupa offers a wilderness hut stop in the Toras–Annin reach. Around the mid-route Lauttalampi cluster you find parking, a small dock, a lean-to, and dry toilets—useful if you combine paddling with the Syötteen Kierros Hiking Trail or the Syötteen kierros maastopyöräreitti that share this shore. Still farther downstream, Majovanojan taukopaikka is another marked rest before the line approaches the Livojoki system; the Livojoen vesiretkeilyreitti kayaking route lies near the far end of this geometry for paddlers who continue the journey on linked water trails. This is not flat lake touring: expect current, rocky channels, and passages where low water means lining or careful line choice—Pudasjärvi documents both easy class I sections and longer class II runs such as Vannekoski and Petäjäkoski, with wading or portage lines when conditions demand(1). Match your group’s skills to the season and flow; check the city’s notes and local operators before committing to the full distance(1)(2). Guided day trips on the river are offered by commercial outfits in the Syöte holiday area: Syötteen Eräpalvelut lists a guided Pärjänjoki canoe programme on its summer activities page(4), and Hotel Iso-Syöte sells a similar guided canoe safari with meals(5).

This is a one-way river journey on the free-flowing Iijoki in North Ostrobothnia, from Jokijärvi toward Taivalkoski town centre—about 27 km along our mapped line, a full-day paddle through Koillismaa-style river and lake shores. Visit Taivalkoski promotes the area as a versatile paddling destination on Iijoki and Kostonjoki, with calm lake basins and livelier current sections, and points to route descriptions and maps on Outdooractive for planning(1). The same tourism pages highlight Taivalkosken melontakeskus at Urheilutie 1 for whitewater and touring skills, river boogie, rentals, courses, and quiet scenic paddling on the river(2). The Taivalkoski municipality website repeats the centre’s address, phone, and rental focus for local residents and visitors(7). Upstream character matters: Iijoki here is known for long stretches of shallow, runnable rapids and pools rather than deep gorge whitewater—suitable for developing river skills when water levels are normal(3). The long-running Iijokisoutu event traditionally puts in at Jokijärvi (Saija holiday village) for a multi-day downstream journey, which underlines how this reach is embedded in Iijoki river culture(3). Elävä Iijoki ry and related paddling festivals continue that tradition on the same river system; check their sites for annual dates and programmes(4). Along the line, the mid-reach clusters rest stops at forest lean-tos: around 10.5 km from the start you pass Mustakosken laavu; farther downstream Kallioinen laavu offers a longer break, and Kirstinkari kota sits in a similar band before Saunakarin laavu toward the lower reach. Dry toilets and firewood shelters are grouped with several of these stops—plan breaks as part of each cluster rather than as isolated “facilities lists.” The route finishes near Taivalkoski’s sports campus: the paddling centre’s kayak storage rack, school playing fields, and the swimming beach at Tynnyrimutka lie within a short walk of each other for changing, food, or a swim after the trip. Land connections: Simosenpolku walking trail meets the river corridor near the put-in area. Closer to town, Nappaskenkäreitti circles from the paddling centre through partly riverside woods. Longer hiking links such as Kylmäluoma–Taivalkoski and the separate Melontareitti Taivalkoski–Jurmu branch off the same outdoor network if you are combining paddle and trek days.

Melontareitti Hevoskariin is about 8.1 km long on our map as a point-to-point sea-kayak line through the Rahja archipelago off Kalajoki in North Ostrobothnia, heading toward Hevoskari on the western side of the island group. Visit Kalajoki’s Rahja archipelago page is the clearest tourism entry for services, fishing licence sales contacts, and links to further outdoor information(1), and the paddling overview names Venekari day shelter, Koivukari wilderness hut, and several public lean-tos as typical break spots in the same waters(2). Along the mapped trace, the Koivukari cluster sits roughly 3.5 km from the recorded start: a wilderness hut, campfire site, and dry toilets form a compact rest area before you continue toward more open sounds. Near 4.5 km the line passes Putkikari, where a lean-to and campfire site offer another sheltered pause. The line then carries on toward Hevoskari itself. The Kraaselistakrunneille trip blog on Hevoskari describes the island as about a kilometre long and half a kilometre wide, with terrain ranging from open rock and boulder fields through pine forest to lush deciduous pockets, and striking cliffs on the northwest side worth saving time to explore(8). Traces of old fishing culture, including stone structures, appear in the wider Rahja area in the same writing(8). The water is brackish Bothnian Bay archipelago: rocky islets, reed-fringed bays, and summer motorboat traffic—give way, wear a life jacket, and watch the weather. You can combine this hop with Melontareitti Venekarin päivätuvalle for a short link toward Venekari, Rahjan epävirallinen melontareitti for a longer informal passage through inner channels, or Rahjan saariston veneilyreitit to align with the city-maintained, buoyed boating circuit. The City of Kalajoki maintains Rahja’s marked boating route, checks buoys each June before Midsummer, quotes draught along the fairway at roughly 0.8–1.8 m, and reminds everyone that travel is at your own risk(3). Between 15 April and 31 July, kayaking and boating are prohibited in some water areas, and landing or moving ashore is banned on certain islands to protect nesting birds—check the city’s boating page each season before planning a shore visit(3). Rahjan saaristo is a large Natura 2000 complex; the site description summarises land-uplift shores, bird-rich islets, and sensitive habitats worth treating lightly(5). Metsähallitus landing sites mentioned in programme copy are part of the same mosaic(2).

The Julma-Ölkky–Somer–Hossa route is a point-to-point paddle of about 24.2 km through Hossa National Park, linking the Somer lake chain, Julma-Ölkky canyon water, and the lower park lakes toward Hossanjärvi and Hossaari. Kuusamo is often used as the regional gateway for the northern shore, while land services, nature centre rentals, and many parking areas sit on the Suomussalmi side—check the Hossa canoeing hub on Luontoon.fi for maps, rules, and season notes before you launch(1). Visit Suomussalmi describes this line as mostly easy, maze-like lake paddling after the early river section, with small rapids and narrows between basins; from Laukkujärvi onward you can usually keep moving even when water is low, and the elevation drop from Lower Ölkky to Lihapyörre is 6.5 m across 2.3 km(2). Early on, Iso-Someron laavu sits minutes from the line for a sheltered break. Near kilometre 4, the Värikallio shore cluster pairs lean-tos and campfire spots with the famous rock-art viewpoint—hikers on Värikallion kaarros share the same headland. Julma-Ölkky itself is Finland’s large canyon-lake pocket: the route threads past Ala-Ölkyn laavu, an accessible paddling jetty, bus and overflow parking, and the Ala-Ölkky carry before Somerjoki picks up toward Lihapyörre. At Lihapyörre, river-mouth scenery, a lean-to, boat docks, and several parking areas make this the main road-supported hub in the middle of the day. Beyond Laukkujärvi autiotupa, the chain opens into UmpiValkeinen and Hossalaislampi, then Puukkojärvi autiotupa and Suottajärvi, before Jatkonsalmi’s rental cabins, Pikku-Hossa jetty, and the Hossanjärvi accessible launch. The Hossaari shore adds sauna, cottage stays, and a final parking option for pickups. Retkipaikka’s Somerjoki article (produced with Suomussalmi) walks the river mouth on foot and stresses how Somerjoki ties Lower Ölkky and Lake Somer to Laukkujärvi—useful context for what you see from the cockpit(3). Plan a full day for fit groups, or two easier days using Laukkujärvi, Puukkojärvi, or Jatkonsalmi stops. Kainuun Luontoretket and other renters publish gear lists and pricing on Visit Suomussalmi-backed pages(4). Carry straps and footwear for the Ölkky portage; pack wind layers for open bays.

Laajakallio–Kurkikarvonsalmi–Alajoenkarin laavu is a short sea-kayak line about 4.4 km long in the Rahja archipelago off Kalajoki in North Ostrobothnia. On our map it runs as a point-to-point passage through inner archipelago water: past Laajakallio’s open rock, through Kurkikarvonsalmi, and in to the wooded Alajoenkari islet where the route’s main stopping place sits. For archipelago-wide context, services, and rental contacts, Visit Kalajoki’s Rahja archipelago page is the clearest tourism entry point(1), and the paddling overview lists public lean-tos and day shelters elsewhere in Rahja for longer days(2). The natural goal of this segment is Alajoenkari: a lean-to and dry toilets sit together near the shore roughly at the mapped end of the line—convenient for lunch, a campfire under everyman’s rights where permitted, or a pause before paddling back or linking into a longer tour. The water is brackish Bothnian Bay: rocky islets, reed-fringed bays, and occasional motorboat traffic on nearby fairways—give way, wear a life jacket, and watch wind and swell if you continue toward more open sounds. This line sits inside the same island maze as Rahjan epävirallinen melontareitti and overlaps the broader Rahjan saariston veneilyreitit boating circuit; many paddlers use it as a compact hop toward Alajoenkari or stitch it into those longer routes. The City of Kalajoki maintains Rahja’s marked boating route, checks buoys each June before Midsummer, and reminds boaters and paddlers that draught along the fairway is roughly 0.8–1.8 m and that you travel at your own risk(3). Between 15 April and 31 July, kayaking and boating are prohibited in some water areas, and landing or moving ashore is banned on certain islands to protect nesting birds—check the city’s boating page each season before planning a shore day(3). Rahjan saaristo is a large Natura 2000 complex; the site description summarises land-uplift shores, bird-rich islets, and sensitive habitats worth treating with a light touch(5).

Naamankajoen vesiretkeilyreitti is a long point-to-point paddle in the Syöte area of Pudasjärvi, North Ostrobothnia. On our map the line is about 28.8 km as one continuous track from open water on Naamankajärvi through the Naamankajoki channel toward its confluence with the Näljänkäjoki—use that distance for planning. Visit Syöte’s water pages highlight canoeing on Naamankajärvi and other Syöte waters alongside longer river trips elsewhere in the destination(1). The lake section is a practical place to stage a day or to join a guided outing: Naamankajärven uimaranta sits a few kilometres into the mapped line, with a sandy beach and road access off Syötekyläntie. Hilltop Hotel Iso-Syöte advertises guided canoe trips on Naamankajärvi with meeting at Naamankajärvi, Syötekyläntie 382—roughly the same shoreline cluster as the beach—while Syötteen Eräpalvelut lists a separate guided Naamankajärvi canoe programme with snacks and traditional canoes(3)(4). Those services focus on the lake; independent groups continuing downriver need solid moving-water skills. Below Naamankajärvi, Kalalla Kainuussa describes Naamankajoki (also called Kokkokoski) as a forest river where fast currents and small pools lead into named rapid reaches: Ylä-Kokkokoski, the calmer Harrivirta, and Ala-Kokkokoski before the river joins the Näljänkäjoki. The channel is on the order of ten metres wide in many places; there are no official shore paths or rest areas along the fishing description, which underlines how remote the banks feel(2). The same material notes that only fly fishing is permitted on Naamankajoki within the wider Korvua–Näljänkäjoki licence system—anglers must buy the correct permit and follow gear rules even when the boat is primarily for travel(2). Along our mapped line you pass picnic and landing infrastructure tied to the Syöte outdoor network: Pintamo-ojan nuotiopaikka, laavu, and landing; Petäjäkosken, Taimenmutkan, and Sulakosken landings; Taimenmutkan autiotupa for an overnight stop; then Sulaniemen and Punkinkosken landings toward the run-out. On land, the route meets several Syöte cycling and hiking loops at Naamankajärven uimaranta—Maisemareitti, Pärjän kierros, and Syötteen ladot share that shore—so you can combine paddling with bike or ski-trail access in other seasons. Taigavire in Syöte rents open canoes and kayaks for lake or river use, with helmets included for river trips according to their Visit Finland listing(5).

JulmanÖlkyn vesiretkeilyreitti is a short point-to-point paddle on Finland’s largest canyon lake, Julma-Ölkky, inside Hossa National Park in the Kuusamo area of North Ostrobothnia. On our map the line is about 2.8 km as one continuous track along the main canyon water from the Ölkynärjä head toward the south-end services—use that distance for planning; longer round-lake outings are often described separately elsewhere(1). For how this lake fits the wider Somer–Hossa canoeing network and rules, see the Luontoon.fi JulmaÖlkky–Somer–Hossa canoeing route page(1). Visit Suomussalmi summarises the canyon as roughly three kilometres long and only about ten metres wide at the pinch, with walls on the order of fifty metres high and cold, deep water below—useful context for why the paddle feels dramatic even on a short segment(2). From the water you pass below the Ölkynärjän näköalatasanne viewpoint on the rim, then run toward Julma-Ölkyn esteetön melontalaituri, where an accessible launch, transfer aids, and nearby services support independent canoeing and kayaking as well as commercial boat trips(1)(2)(3). At the south cluster, Ala-Ölkky tulentekopaikka, Ala-Ölkky vetotaival for carrying boats between Julma-Ölkky and Ala-Ölkky, Julmaölkky linja-auto p-paikka and Julma-Ölkyn lisäparkkipaikka sit within a short walk of each other—plan parking and carry footwear before you arrive(2)(3). Retkipaikka’s field story names Pirunkirkko’s arching crack, Sateenlähde-style springs on the east wall, and the small rock-art panel visible from the water among the reasons paddlers linger with a camera(4). On land, Ölökyn ylitys and the longer Ölökyn ähkäsy ring connect hikers around the same canyon; Julman Ölkyn polku drops to the jetty area for a foot link. The JulmaÖlkky - Somer - Hossa vesiretkeilyreitti continues the journey downstream toward Somer and Hossanjärvi if you are moving on after this segment(2).

The Naamankajoki paddling route is a long point-to-point water journey in Pudasjärvi, North Ostrobothnia, through the Iso-Syöte recreation area and the Iijoki water system. On our map the line is about 28.4 km from the Naamankajärvi beach area toward the south, following the river that drains Naamankajärvi–Salmentakanen. The City of Pudasjärvi lists Naamankajoki among the municipality’s main rivers for canoeing and kayaking alongside Iijoki, Livojoki, and Pärjänjoki(1). The Syöte destination site promotes guided canoe experiences on beautiful Lake Naamankajärvi and describes wider paddling options in the Syöte area, including the popular Pärjänjoki run documented on Luontoon.fi(2). From the swimming beach end of the line, the outing begins on lake water before the current gathers in the forested channel toward the south. Along the mapped route you pass named landing places at Petäjäkoski, Taimenmutka (with a wilderness hut and landings clustered at the bend), Sulakoski and Sulaniemi, and Punkinkoski—useful breakpoints for rest and lining in low water. Near the lower part of the line, Pintamo-oja groups a lean-to, a campfire site, and a landing so you can dry gear or spend a longer break before the last kilometres. Where the water meets maintained trails, UKK Trail: Syöte to Pintamo (west section) and the busy Syöte trail network (including Pitämävaaran Lenkki and Syötteen ladut near the visitor hub) run close to the shore—handy if someone in your group wants to combine paddling with hiking or arrange a vehicle shuttle. Hilltop Hotel Iso-Syöte runs guided canoe trips on Lake Naamankajärvi from a meeting point on Syötekyläntie, with equipment and instruction included—useful if you want a shorter, guided introduction to the lake before tackling the full river line on your own(3). Fishing along Naamanganjoki is managed under a separate permit area with daily and weekly fees listed by commercial permit sellers; check rules and buy the correct regional licence before fishing from the canoe(4).

The Iijoki River paddling route is a long point-to-point river journey on the free-flowing Iijoki in North Ostrobothnia, mapped at about 100 km on our line within Pudasjärvi. The Iijoki is Finland’s sixth-largest river system; its main stem runs roughly 370 km from headwater lakes in Kuusamo toward the Gulf of Bothnia, and the upper and middle reaches are protected under rapid-protection law with an estimated 150 rapids along the system(2). This segment threads forested banks and village river culture: landing and rest sites have been developed along the river since the 1990s so paddlers can step ashore for breaks(2). For rapid-by-rapid guidance through the Taivalkoski–Pudasjärvi Kipinä corridor—including class I–III passages such as Taivalkoski and the Kipinänkosket stretch where the Oulu–Kuusamo road bridge and Mursunlampi lead into long rapid water—the City of Pudasjärvi publishes a detailed Finnish-language rapid description surveyed for canoeists and kayakers(1). Fishing in Finland notes that the Kipinänkosket form the river’s longest continuous rapid section at about 10 km and that the wider middle-Iijoki fishing belt suits anglers as well as paddlers(4). Independent river culture writing on Karttaselain blog describes how organised Iijoki journeys blend community, storytelling, and careful rapid running toward Kipinä, including the large Toho rapid where skilled support helps groups stay upright in big water(3). Two recurring summer events help newcomers experience the river with meals, logistics, and guides: Iijokisoutu® has run since 1983 from Taivalkoski’s Jokijärvi–Saija with traditional clinker boats, kayaks, and canoes and professional bow paddlers(6), while Elävä Iijoen melonta ja soutu follows a multi-day programme toward Kipinä with optional kayak help for participants(5). Along the mapped line you pass lean-tos and fire sites suited to multi-day pacing, including Naapansaaren laavu in the forested mid-reach, Rimmin veneranta and Mursunlampi where the river approaches Pudasjärvi centre, Pietarilan landing and Rajamaanranta beaches and lean-tos in the town riverfront cluster, Pajulan and Parkkila landing and campfire points farther downstream, and the Räpättävä kota and fire ring near the lower end of this geometry. The same riverfront connects to winter ski tracks along the ice in season and to long-distance hiking trails that touch the bank, including the Syöte–Kurenalus hiking route and sections of the UKK Trail network for walkers who combine land and water legs.