Seven Blues

The Seven Blues loop officially starts at the Vuokatti Sports Institute, right in front of the Vuokatti Arena. You'll find parking available at this location.

This 23-kilometer mountain biking loop is rated as difficult (S2), requiring good technical skill and stamina. The terrain is varied, utilizing both ski track and trail bases. You'll encounter wider, smoother sections, as well as narrower, rockier, and potentially wet areas. Approximately 62.5% of the route is forested/wild trail, with about 34.14% consisting of paths. Expect significant elevation changes with climbs up several fell slopes and opportunities for fast descents. Be cautious in wet weather, as rocky and rooty sections can become very slippery.

The trail offers stunning natural beauty, traversing the 'seven blue fells' of the Vuokatinvaara ridge. You'll get magnificent views over the forests and waters of Sotkamo, with the fells shimmering over the Sapso and Nuas lakes. Notable viewpoints include Vuokatti hills and View from Vuokatinvaara. The finale of the circuit at Iso-Pölly provides panoramic views from observation towers.

The estimated duration for completing the entire 23-kilometer loop is around 3 hours and 30 minutes. This can vary based on your fitness level, technical skill, and how often you stop to enjoy the views or take breaks.

Yes, there are several rest and campfire spots along the route where you can take a break and enjoy the surroundings. During the season, the Vaaran Tupa café is open at Iso-Pölly, offering a convenient place for refreshments.

Given its 'difficult' rating and technical sections, the Seven Blues loop is generally not recommended for beginners or young children. It requires a reasonable basic fitness level and mountain biking experience. If you're new to mountain biking, it might be better to explore other, less challenging trails in the Vuokatti region first.

The best time to ride the Seven Blues trail is typically during the warmer months when the snow has melted and the ground is drier. Late spring, summer, and early autumn offer the most favorable conditions. Be aware that rocky and rooty sections can become very slippery after rain, so check weather conditions before you go.

There are generally no specific permits or entrance fees required to access the Vuokatinvaara area or to ride the Seven Blues trail. However, it's always a good idea to check local regulations or the Vuokatti tourism information for any updates before your visit.

The Seven Blues loop is not marked as a distinct route itself. Instead, riders need to follow the signs of various ski tracks and other trails that make up the loop. It's advisable to use a navigation app like komoot to ensure you stay on the correct path.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other official trails. You will find yourself riding parts of the UKK Trail, Eino Leino, Sapporo, and Saunapolku during your journey.

While specific regulations for dogs on the Seven Blues trail are not explicitly stated, it's generally expected that dogs are allowed in Finnish outdoor areas if kept on a leash and their waste is properly managed. Always ensure your dog is well-behaved and doesn't disturb wildlife or other trail users.