Sunset golden bridge canoe route, 4 km, Sotkamo - Vuokatti
Experience an unforgettable sight on the water as the sun sets behind the silhouette of the Vuokatti and Naapurinvaara hill range. Paddle towards the golden sunset bridge and immerse yourself in the colors of the tranquil lake surface on a summer evening!
Marvel at the stunning summer sunsets on the beautiful lakes of Sotkamo while canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, or boating. Witnessing the sunset from the water's surface is an unforgettable experience. Some evenings, the sun peeks through the clouds, painting the sky in incredible hues. On other nights, the cloudless sky radiates warmth as the sun dips below the horizon.
The lakeside scenery evolves with the seasons. The light greenery of spring and early summer deepens as the season progresses. Often, the most magnificent evening glows are seen in late summer.
These same waters also offer the chance to experience sunrise. So why not try canoeing at the break of dawn?
Author’s recommendation
Take your camera or mobile phone - packed in a waterproof case.
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.
Track types
Show elevation profileSafety information
- In the vicinity of Sotkamo marina and near Hirvensilta bridge there is a lively boat traffic from time to time. The paddler must avoid other water traffic.
- Wear a life vest when paddling and preferably paddle close to the shore.
- There may be some motorboat traffic on the route. Pay attention to this especially in the narrowness of the Hirvensilla underpass.
- Remember that most of the beaches are inhabited and therefore respect privacy - so don't paddle right in the beach waters.
Tips and suggestions
Check the weather forecast before your trip.
Roadbook
Departure and return are easily accessible from the accessible canoe dock at Sotkamo Harbor.
The route outlined on the map is indicative and offers flexibility.
You can paddle on the Lake Sapsojärvi side, passing by the Hiukka beach or heading all the way to Pikku-Hiukka, a little further east.
Alternatively, you can choose to paddle the entire route on Lake Pirttijärvi. In that case, it's worth exploring the waters between the islands of Siltasaari, Eskonsaari, Ammonsaari, and Kiikarusniemi.
Beach access points on Sapsojärvi:
- Hiukka beach and the entire sandy shoreline.
- Hirvensaari
Access points on Lake Pirttijärvi:
- Refueling dock at Hirvenniemi
- Hirvenniemi beach (part of the park's swimming and boating area)
- Shore near Aatos's old rectory in Akkoniemi
Sotkamo marina, Sotkamo Finland
Hiukan kota upeissa harjumaisemissa, Sotkamo-Vuokatti
Sotkamon venesataman esteetön melontalaituri, Sotkamo
Hirvenniemen tankkauslaituri, Sotkamo
Yrittäjäpuiston uima- ja veneranta, Sotkamo
Hirvenniemen veneenlaskupaikka, Sotkamo
Rauramo swimming pier, Sotkamo
Eskonsaari lean-to, Sotkamo Finland
Salmelan veneranta, Sotkamo
Public transport
Public-transport-friendly
There is a regular bus service from Kajaani to the center of Sotkamo. See also Sotkamo and Vuokatti local transport SotKatti.
Get Timetable to destination
Directions
The marina is located in the center of Sotkamo. When you arrive in Sotkamo, follow the signs for the center.
Parking
Free parking in the marina parking area.
Coordinates
Book recommendation by the author
Author’s map recommendations
Equipment
Transportable by paddling (kayak, canoe, sup-board).
Equipment rental
- Vuokatti Safaris https://www.vuokattisafaris.com/ (kayaks, canoes)
- Satama Cafe (sup-boards)
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.

User Questions