The route follows rolling gravel roads, hard-packed forest trails, and connecting tarmac sections, forming one continuous and demanding route. The route consists of three sections: a southbound leg from Ruka to Kuusamo, a loop through the Iivaara fell area, and a final climbing section back to Ruka via Oivanki. This physically demanding route requires strong fitness and full self-sufficiency, as the distances between settlements and services are long, especially in the remote Iivaara section. Riders must be prepared for varying surfaces, ranging from fast, hard-packed gravel roads to rougher forestry tracks with loose stones. This route will test both your bike-handling skills and tyre grip.
The route begins by descending south from the starting point in Ruka Village, following the eastern side of Kemijärventie. Here, the terrain consists mainly of wide, well-maintained gravel roads and rolling forest roads through Määttälänvaara. After a fast and flowing opening section, riders arrive in Kuusamo town centre, where cafés and services are available for cyclists. The middle section of the FKT Ultra Loop is the most physically demanding part of the entire route, heading deep into the wilderness toward the Iivaara fell region. Here, riders will face repeated climbs, steep and sustained ascents on coarse gravel, and technical, fast descents. This is also the section with the fewest services, so riders need to plan carefully before setting out. The final section heads north from Kuusamo town centre, following the western side of Highway 5. Here, the route uses smooth gravel tracks and rolling esker ridges through the pristine Oivanki wilderness area. The gravel roads on this section are generally fast and in good condition, but the final part of the route is relentlessly uphill and ends with a demanding climb back into Ruka Village.
On this route, a solid riding strategy is essential, as the course alternates between town centres and remote wilderness. Riders should make full use of the services in Ruka Village and Kuusamo town centre, because complete self-sufficiency is necessary in the middle section, where there are no public food or water stops at all. A gravel bike or hardtail mountain bike is recommended, fitted with 40–45 mm tubeless tyres at minimum, to absorb constant vibration and reduce the risk of punctures on rougher forest roads. Low gearing is also recommended, as the route includes steep climbs — in places over 10% gradient — which feel especially demanding toward the end of the ride.
The FKT Ruka-Kuusamo Ultra Loop is an open challenge for gravel riders from 14 June to 30 September 2026. During this period, participants can ride the route and record their effort on Strava. In October 2026, the fastest woman and the fastest man riding a non-electric bike will each receive a €300 prize.
You will find FKT Ruka-Kuusamo Ultra Loop in Strava.