Paanajärvi National Park Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide to Paanajärvi National Park in Karelia, northwestern Russia. Learn about the park's attractions, activities, accommodations, local culture, and travel logistics.


Introduction to Paanajärvi National Park

Located in the region of Karelia in northwestern Russia, Paanajärvi National Park is a wilderness area known for its stunning natural beauty and cultural heritage. Covering an area of 1200 square kilometers, the park is home to forests, lakes, rivers, and tundra, as well as wildlife such as bears, wolves, lynx, and elk. In addition to its natural attractions, Paanajärvi is also known for its cultural and historical significance, with ancient petroglyphs and abandoned villages providing a glimpse into the area’s past.

List of Places to Visit in Paanajärvi National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Paanajärvi Visitor Center: This center provides information about the park’s history, culture, and wildlife. Exhibits include photographs, videos, and interactive displays.
  • Pettäjäsköld Cabin: This is a traditional Karelian log cabin that has served as a hostel since 1954. The cabin provides a cozy and rustic setting for visitors to stay while exploring the park.
  • Ancient Karelian Petroglyphs: These carvings, which date back to the Stone Age, can be found at Vygostrov Island in Lake Paanajärvi.

Natural Attractions of Paanajärvi National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Paanajärvi: This lake is the park’s largest body of water and is popular for kayaking, fishing, and boating. It is surrounded by forests and mountains and has several small islands that can be visited.
  • Kivakkakuru Canyon: This canyon, which was formed by a waterfall, is a popular hiking destination.
  • Vekezero Lake: This lake is known for its clear and turquoise water and is perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing. It also has several hiking trails surrounding it, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Paanajärvi National Park

Paanajärvi National Park offers a wide variety of hiking and biking routes through forests, mountains, and tundra. Popular routes include:

  • Paanajärvi Round: This 70 km hike takes visitors around Lake Paanajärvi, offering spectacular views of the lake and surrounding forests.
  • Pyhänpään Polku Trail: This 5 km hike takes visitors to the top of Pyhänpää Mountain, which is the highest point in the park and provides panoramic views of the landscape.
  • Kivakkakuru Canyon Trail: This 10 km hike takes visitors through the scenic Kivakkakuru Canyon, passing by waterfalls and offering stunning views of the surrounding forests.

Best Things to Do in Paanajärvi National Park: Activities and Tours

  • Kayaking on Lake Paanajärvi: Rent a kayak to explore the lake and its surrounding islands.
  • Fishing: The park’s lakes and rivers are home to a variety of fish, including salmon, trout, and pike.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Keep your eyes peeled for bears, wolves, elk, and other wildlife while exploring the park.
  • Traditional Karelian Sauna: Relax in one of the many traditional saunas located within the park.
  • Photography: With its stunning natural landscapes and unique cultural heritage, Paanajärvi National Park is a photographer’s paradise.

Week-Long Itinerary for Paanajärvi National Park

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Paanajärvi National Park, visit the Paanajärvi Visitor Center
2 Hike the Kivakkakuru Canyon Trail
3 Kayak on Lake Paanajärvi
4 Visit the Ancient Karelian Petroglyphs
5 Ride a bike on the Vekezero Lake Trail
6 Relax in a traditional Karelian sauna
7 Depart from Paanajärvi National Park

Food and Drink Scene of Paanajärvi National Park

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kalakukko: A traditional Karelian dish made from fish, potatoes and bacon or pork.
  • Karelian Pies: These pies are made of rye flour and filled with rice or potatoes with butter and eggs. They can be sweet or savory.

Local Beverages

  • Mead: A fermented honey drink that has been enjoyed in Karelian culture for centuries.
  • Birch Juice: A refreshing drink made from the sap of birch trees that is popular in Finland and Russia.

Where to Stay in Paanajärvi National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Pettäjäsköld Cabin: This traditional Karelian log cabin serves as a hostel for visitors.
  • Ylä-Koitajoki Wilderness Lodge: A comfortable wilderness lodge located near the park’s southern boundary.
  • Koitajoki Guesthouse: A cozy guesthouse located on the banks of the Koitajoki River.

What to Buy in Paanajärvi National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handwoven Textiles: These textiles, which include colorful rugs, tablecloths, and towels, are made by local artisans using traditional methods.
  • Birch Bark Items: Birch bark is a common material used in Karelian crafts, and visitors can purchase items such as baskets and boxes decorated with intricate designs.

Local Culture and Customs of Paanajärvi National Park

Karelian culture is deeply ingrained in the history of Paanajärvi National Park. Visitors can learn about the area’s traditional music, dance, and art at cultural events and museums throughout the park. The Karelian language is also commonly spoken in the region.

Best Time to Visit Paanajärvi National Park

The best time to visit Paanajärvi National Park is during the summer months of June, July, and August when the weather is warm and the parks’ trails and lakes are accessible. The fall months of September and October offer stunning autumn colors, and winter visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Paanajärvi National Park

Do:

  • Follow Leave No Trace Principles: Pack out all trash and leave the park in the same condition you found it.
  • Respect Wildlife: Observe animals from a distance and do not approach them.
  • Stay on Designated Trails: Help protect delicate ecosystems and prevent damage to the park’s flora and fauna.

Don’t:

  • Light Fires Outside of Designated Areas: Fires pose a risk to the park’s delicate ecosystem and should only be lit in designated fire pits.
  • Pick Wildflowers or Berries: Some plants within Paanajärvi National Park are protected, and visitors should not pick them.
  • Ignore Weather Warnings: The weather in Paanajärvi National Park can change quickly. Visitors should be aware of changing weather conditions and adapt their plans accordingly.

Safety and Health

Safety in Paanajärvi National Park

It is important for visitors to be aware of their surroundings and keep their distance from wildlife. Visitors should also stay on designated trails and follow wilderness safety guidelines. In case of emergency, visitors can contact the Paanajärvi Visitor Center or search and rescue services in the region.

Health in Paanajärvi National Park

Visitors should be prepared for outdoor activities and bring adequate supplies, including sunscreen, first-aid kits, and insect repellent. It is also important to follow safe food and water practices, such as boiling water before drinking it.

Getting to Paanajärvi National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Paanajärvi National Park

  • Joensuu Airport (JOE): Located approximately 200 kilometers south of Paanajärvi National Park.
  • Petrozavodsk Airport (PES): Located approximately 270 kilometers west of Paanajärvi National Park.

Bus Stations Near Paanajärvi National Park

  • Kajaani Bus Station: Located approximately 225 kilometers southeast of Paanajärvi National Park.
  • Kemijärvi Bus Station: Located approximately 250 kilometers north of Paanajärvi National Park.

Other Options

Private car or taxi can be a good option for those who prefer more flexibility during their travels.

How to Get Around in Paanajärvi National Park

The best way to get around Paanajärvi National Park is by hiking, biking, or paddling. Visitors can rent kayaks or canoes for exploring the park’s lakes and rivers or pack their own bikes to explore the park’s trails.

Where to Go Next from Paanajärvi National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Petkeljärvi National Park: A forested park located approximately 70 kilometers south of Paanajärvi National Park.
  • Koli National Park: A stunning park known for its rugged hills and panoramic views, located approximately 200 kilometers west of Paanajärvi National Park.

Conclusion

Paanajärvi National Park offers visitors the opportunity to experience the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of Karelia. With a wide variety of outdoor activities, scenic vistas, and cultural opportunities, Paanajärvi is a destination that is well worth a visit.

View from Kivakka to Oulankajoki View from Kivakka to Oulankajoki ''Shepherd Boy from Paanajärvi'', by Akseli Gallen-Kallela (1892) ''Shepherd Boy from Paanajärvi'', by Akseli Gallen-Kallela (1892) Kivakkakoski Kivakkakoski