The best cycling routes around Kemijärvi

There are 5 touring cycling routes around Kemijärvi listed in this guide, offering a variety of experiences from easy lakeside paths to more challenging routes through national parks.

Touring cycling routes in Kemijärvi offer a diverse mix of landscapes. You'll find relatively flat paths along the expansive Lake Kemijärvi and the Kemijoki River, as well as more undulating terrain in the nearby fell regions, such as Pyhä-Luosto National Park. The routes often feature mostly paved surfaces, though some segments may be unpaved and more challenging.

The best time for touring cycling in Kemijärvi is during the summer months. The region is known for its peaceful environment and breathtaking natural beauty, with the unique experience of the midnight sun allowing for cycling almost 24/7 with no darkness.

Yes, Kemijärvi offers easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners. An excellent option is the Kuumalampi – Kemijärven uimaranta loop from Särkikangas, an 8.4-mile (13.6 km) trail that leads through Kuumalampi Park and along the lake shore. Another easy route is the Porolaavu Shelter loop from Kultakero, which is 5.1 miles (8.2 km) long.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Kemijärvi are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the challenging Pyhä-Luosto national park loop from Pelkosenniemi, the moderate Pyhä-Luosto National Park loop from Soutajaranta, and the easy Kuumalampi – Kemijärven uimaranta loop from Särkikangas.

Experienced cyclists looking for a challenge will enjoy the Pyhä-Luosto national park loop from Pelkosenniemi. This demanding 94.8-mile (152.6 km) route takes approximately 10 hours and 18 minutes to complete, exploring the diverse and undulating terrain of the national park.

Kemijärvi's touring cycling routes often pass by stunning natural attractions. You can explore the impressive Isokuru Gorge, Finland's deepest gorge, or visit the beautiful Pyhänkasteenputous Waterfall and Pyhänkasteenlampi Lake. The region also features the expansive Pyhä-Luosto National Park with its unique fell landscapes.

Yes, Kemijärvi offers several viewpoints with stunning panoramic scenery. The Kotavaara Lookout Tower, less than 10 km south of Kemijärvi, provides expansive views of Lapland's landscapes. Within Pyhä-Luosto National Park, the Noitatunturi Summit offers breathtaking vistas. The Ämmänvaara nature trail, an ancient Sámi site, also boasts magnificent viewpoints.

For families, the Kuumalampi – Kemijärven uimaranta loop from Särkikangas is an excellent choice. This easy route through Kuumalampi Park and along the lake shore is relatively flat and suitable for all ages. Kuumalampi Park itself offers easy footpaths and opportunities for birdwatching.

While many outdoor areas in Kemijärvi are dog-friendly, specific rules may apply, especially within national parks like Pyhä-Luosto. Dogs are generally allowed on trails but must be kept on a leash. It's always best to check the specific regulations for the route or park you plan to visit to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

The touring cycling routes in Kemijärvi are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the region's diverse and striking natural landscapes, the peaceful atmosphere, and the variety of routes that cater to different fitness levels, from serene lakeside paths to challenging fell climbs.

While specific cafes directly on every route might be limited, the town center of Kemijärvi offers amenities. Additionally, some routes, particularly those in or near Pyhä-Luosto National Park, may have huts or shelters like the Isokuru Lapp Hut and Shelter or the Auttijoki Suspension Bridge and Day Hut, which provide spots for rest. The Autti Café, Museum and Parking Area is another potential stop.

Kemijärvi is surrounded by the expansive Lake Kemijärvi and the Kemijoki River, offering numerous opportunities for wild swimming. Many routes run along the shores of these waterways, providing easy access to refreshing dips. The Kuumalampi – Kemijärven uimaranta loop, for example, passes by the Kemijärven uimaranta (beach), which is a designated swimming area.