Mustarinda nature trail at Paljakanvaara 3.8 km, Hyrynsalmi
The Mustarinda nature trail for the whole family takes travelers through the diverse nature of Paljakanvaara. Paljakanvaara is as high as you can get in Kainuu.
Forest has grown near the summit of Paljakanvaara for thousands of years. Generations of trees have risen, fallen, and decomposed. The forest has constantly changed, adapted to changes, aged, and enriched. Humans have never altered the structure of this forest, although various utility woods have been taken from it over time.
The height of Paljakanvaara peak is 384 m and at the top of the observation tower along the route, you are at an elevation of 404 meters. The air is cool and moist. The winter is long and heavy snow preserves water on the hill. The downward-facing spruce branches tolerate the weight of snow better than other trees.
At the route's starting point there is a kota and dry toilet. Note that there is no winter maintenance at the observation tower, and routes are not officially kept open in winter. However, the path to the observation tower is usually passable also in winter without snowshoes or skis.
The area is actively operated by Mustarinda Society ry, founded in 2010 by a group of artists and researchers. Its purpose is to promote ecological reconstruction of society, cultural and natural biodiversity, and the connection between art and science.
Author’s recommendation
- Amazing frost snow cover forms on the trees of Paljakanvaara in winter
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.
Track types
Show elevation profileSafety information
- Bring drinks and snacks, as there are no services along the route.
- It is also advisable to carry a first aid kit.
- If you are in an emergency during your trip, for example if you get lost, injured, or notice a forest fire, call 112 and make an emergency notification.
- There is no winter maintenance at the observation tower.
Tips and suggestions
Paljakanvaara is a popular photography spot, so remember to bring a camera.
Roadbook
The Mustarinda nature trail is marked in the terrain with red, green, and blue paint markings. You can choose your desired route; the start and return point are the same for all routes.
- Red 0.7 km (kota-tower)
- Green loop 2.0 km
- Blue loop 3.1 km
The starting point of the Mustarinda nature trail is at the parking area next to the Mustarinda house.
Paljakanvaara observation tower, Hyrynsalmi Finland
Lean-to Ypykkälampi, Hyrynsalmi Finland
Iso-Ypykkä, Ukkohalla Finland
Public transport
No public transport.Get Timetable to destination
Directions
From the south and Kuusamo, take highway 5 to Hyrynsalmi, then turn onto Puolangantie 891. Continue 14.3 km and at Väisälä village, turn left onto Hallanmaantie. Drive 9.5 km straight, then turn left onto Paljakantie. Continue 1.9 km on Paljakantie; the parking area is on the right.
From Rovaniemi and Oulu direction, via Puolanka, take main road 78 and 6.5 km after Puolanka, turn left onto Hyrynsalmentie 891 towards Hyrynsalmi. Drive straight for 31 km and at Väisälä village, turn right onto Hallanmaantie. Drive 9.5 km straight, then turn left onto Paljakantie. Continue 1.9 km on Paljakantie; the parking area is on the right.
Parking
Free parking.Coordinates
Author’s map recommendations
https://www.retkikartta.fi/
Equipment
In dry weather, normal footwear is sufficient.
Localization
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.

User Questions
Unanswered