Current conditions for gravel riding:
The routes are not marked in the terrain; instead, they are available on digital platforms and as downloadable GPX files, as is typical in gravel cycling.
The Ruka-Kuusamo gravel season begins in June with the melting of the snow and there is plenty to ride until the snow returns in October. Please make sure you do not make harm on the roads while biking. If the surface of the gravel road is soft or the route is otherwise wet, choose another route!
You can report any issues affecting the rideability of the routes to Ruka Info via email at info@rukakuusamo.fi. Such issues may include the grading or resurfacing of gravel roads (sharp crushed stones on the road surface) or the impact of vehicle traffic related to logging operations on the gravel road surface.
Peek to Kuntivaara: The path section turning from Laajamurrontie is currently quite overgrown, so expect some bushwhacking. In addition, Alavuotungintie is closed due to Piilijoki River restoration work near the Myllykoski power plant.
The northeastern end of Vuosselintie is “washboard” gravel, affecting Tour de Valtavaara, Konttainen Circuit, and Ruka–Käylä routes.
Easy gravel routes
These routes are classified as easy based on the length, surface material and the vertical of the route. These routes are suitable for beginners and families.
Vuosselijärvi Circuit 21 km
The Vuosselijärvi 21 km gravel cycling circuit offers 240 meters of elevation gain and attracts riders of all levels to the beautiful landscapes of Vuosselijärvi lake. Half of the route is on unpaved paths, the rest on asphalt and bike paths.
Tour de Kesäjärvi Lake 21 km
This tour is a 21 km route with 200 meters of elevation gain, 70% of which is on gravel and the rest on paved roads. Starting from Ruka village, it goes along the Talvijärvi shoreline and through Moisasensuontie back to Ruka. This route works best for gravel or touring bikes and is an ideal quick spin before sauna!
Konttainen Circuit 28 km
Peeking into Kuusamo is a 28 km route around the city of Kuusamo. This route follows paved roads, cycle paths, and gravel roads. It is suitable for all cyclists who want to explore the urban areas of Kuusamo.
The Kitkajoki Loop 33 km
The Kitkajoki Loop is a 33 km route from Käylä village to Juuma and back. This easy and flat route follows Nummelantie and Juumantie. It is suitable for all gravel cyclists and offers beautiful lake and river scenery along the route.
Peeking into Kuusamo 28 km
Peeking into Kuusamo is a 28 km route around the city of Kuusamo. This route follows paved roads, cycle paths, and gravel roads. It is suitable for all cyclists who want to explore the urban area of Kuusamo.
Kuusamo village loop 21 km
Kuusamo village loop 21 km is an easy and versatile cycling route around the Kuusamo urban area. The route passes through stunning lake landscapes - attractions include Torankijärvi, Kuusamojärvi and cycling through Kirkkosaari. The Helilampi public swimming area along the route offers a great place to relax. This route is ideal for cyclists of all ages and levels.
Medium difficulty gravel routes
These routes are classified as somewhat difficult based on the length, surface material and the vertical of the route. These routes are suitable for riders with some experience on gravel bikes.
Tour de Oivanki 36 km
This 36 km long, very interesting gravel adventure starts at the Oivanki Youth and Nature Tourism Center. Ahead lies a varied, winding, and detailed gravel and sand road. You can conveniently combine this route with the Kouvervaara Experience, the Kuusamo-Oivanki-Ruka connecting route, or even the stunning Junganharju ridge, between two lakes.
Tour de Valtavaara 43 km
This 43 km cycling route, winding past the stunning landscapes of Valtavaara, offers 500 meters of elevation gain and diverse nature experiences. About half of the route is paved. Prepare for breathtaking views and pack plenty of snacks!
Ruka-Käylä 48 km
Ruka - Käylä is a 48 km connection route between Ruka and Käylä village. The route follows gravel and forest roads through Vuosseli, Virkkula, and Juuma. This route offers magnificent nature experiences and historical sites, such as Halonen's Oven!
Kiutaköngäs Circuit 44 km
The Kiutaköngäs Circuit is a 44 km route from Käylä village to Oulanka National Park and back. The route follows the Kitka river at its southernmost point, passing through Juuma towards Oulanka river. With a a short walk, you will have a stunning views of Myllykoski and the Kiutaköngäs rapids. This route is packed with multiple scenic highlights and is suitable for all gravel cyclists!
Kuusamo-Oivanki-Ruka 47 km
Kuusamo-Oivanki-Ruka is a 47 km long connection route between Kuusamo and Ruka. It runs west of Kemijärventie, through the Oivanki area and Junganharju. This route is ideal for gravel cyclists who enjoy clear gravel roads and beautiful scenery.
A peek at Kuntivaara 57 km
This route is a 57 km adventure from Vuotunki via Määttälänvaara to Kuntivaara and back. The route traverses sandy and narrow gravel roads near the eastern border. This route is suitable for gravel cyclists looking to explore the cultural landscapes of the area.
Nissinvaara Circuit 46 km
The Nissinvaara Circuit is a 46 km route from Kuusamo center to Nissinvaara village and back. The route follows forest roads, gravel roads, and offers the opportunity to visit Kujala Reindeer Farm. This route is suitable for mountain and gravel cyclists.
Kuusamo Lakes Circuit 67 km
With over 1900 lakes, Kuusamo has the third highest number of lakes in Finland. Thus, this 67 km route is replete with gleaming blue lakes, hillscapes, and small countryside villages, offering plenty of rolling gravel. The hub for this route is Kuusamo centre.
Challenging gravel routes
These routes are classified as challenging based on the length, surface material and the vertical of the route. These routes are suitable for experienced gravel riders.
Kitka Circuit 62 km
The 62 km gravel route from the landscapes of Ruka to the shores of Lake Kitka includes a detour to Kouvervaara, offering elevation changes over several kilometers, including a few technically challenging sections.
Kouvervaara Experience 70 km
The Ruka - Määttälänvaara - Kuusamo route connects Ruka and Kuusamo town centers. This 70 km route runs east of Kemijärvi and offers varied gravel roads and rural landscapes. Määttälänvaara serves as a midway point with cultural and historical significance.
Ruka-Määttälänvaara-Kuusamo 70 km
The Ruka - Määttälänvaara - Kuusamo route connects Ruka and Kuusamo town centers. This 70 km long route runs east of Kemijärvi and offers varied gravel roads and rural landscapes. Määttälänvaara serves as a midway point with cultural and historical significance.
The Salpa Line and Iivaara Circuit 86 km
The Salpa Line and Iivaara Circuit is a 86 km route from Kuusamo's Karhuntassu to the Iivaara and back. The route passes through historical Salpa Line landscapes and offers stunning hill views. This route requires good fitness and time. Remember to pack enough energy with you and extra hiking shoes if you plan to climb on top of Iivaara.
Northeastern Kuusamo 79 km
Northeastern Kuusamo is an 79 km route that runs from Kuusamo center through Kemijärventie and Hiidenjärvi and back. Half of the route is paved and half is gravel roads. This route offers combinable route options and beautiful scenery.
Bike rentals:
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