Current conditions for gravel riding:
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.
- Valtavaara Circuit: There has been a logging operation in progress on the forest road between Ryötingintie and Virkkulantie during summer 2024. The road surface may still be slightly uneven due to the machinery - we will update the details as soon as we are able to check the route.
- The following routes contain part of Kouvervaara mountain bike route: Kesäjärvi Circuit, Kouvervaara Experience, Tour de Oivanki and Kuusamo-Oivanki-Ruka. The mountain bike route contains sections that are quite often wet during early June and late September. We recommend navigating via gravel roads on this section.
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 21 km cycling tour of Lake Vuosselijärvi has moderate elevation differences and attracts cyclists of all levels to the beautiful scenery of Lake Vuosselijärvi. Half of the route runs on an asphalt-covered light traffic route and the other half on the gravel-surfaced Vuossel Outdoor Trail.
Tour de Kesäjärvi Lake 21 km
This tour is a 21 km route with 170 meters of elevation gain, half of which is on gravel and the other half on paved roads. Starting from Ruka village, it goes along the Talvijärvi shoreline and through Moisasensuontie back to Ruka. This route is ideal for gravel or touring bikes.
Konttainen Circuit 28 km
The Konttainen Circuit is a 28 km route with 320 meters of elevation gain. The trail goes from Ruka village through Vuosseli and Virkkula village. Half of the route is on gravel roads and the other half on paved roads. This route is suitable for experienced cyclists and offers stunning scenery.
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.
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.
In the village of Kuusamo 26 km
This route is a 26 km loop around the urban area of Kuusamo. This route runs along the shores of Toranki and Kuusamo lakes and through Kirkkosaari. It is an easy and versatile route, suitable for all cyclists.
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 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 47 km
Ruka - Käylä is a 47 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.
Kiutaköngäs Circuit 45 km
The Kiutaköngäs Circuit is a 45 km route from Käylä village to Oulanka National Park and back. The route follows the Kitka River, passing through Juuma, and offers stunning nature experiences and historical landmarks. Suitable for all gravel cyclists.
Kuusamo-Oivanki-Ruka 51 km
Kuusamo-Oivanki-Ruka is a 51 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 60 km
This route is a 60 km adventure from Määttälänvaara to Kuntivaara and back. The route traverses sandy and narrow gravel roads near the Russian border. This route is suitable for gravel cyclists looking to explore the cultural landscapes of the area.
Nissinvaara Circuit 50 km
The Nissinvaara Circuit is a 50 km route from Kuusamo center to Nissinvaara village and back. The route follows forest roads, gravel roads and mountain biking trails, offering fast descents. This route also offers the opportunity to visit Kujala Reindeer Farm. This route is suitable for mountain and gravel bikers with some prior experience.
Kuusamo Lakes Circuit 72 km
With over 1900 lakes, Kuusamo has the third highest number of lakes in Finland. Thus, this 72 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 61 km
The 61 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 69 km
The Kouvervaara Experience is a challenging and technical 69 km route in the Kouvervaara terrain. It is suitable for experienced riders seeking a challenge. The route includes gravel roads, forest roads, and trail sections (including boardwalk sections on swamps), offering a true sense of adventure!
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 92 km
The Salpa Line and Iivaara Circuit is a 92 km route from Kuusamo's Karhuntassu to the summit of Iivaara and back. The route passes through historical Salpa Line landscapes and offers stunning hill views. This route requires good fitness and time.
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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Sport House Ruka - bike rentals
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