In commercial cooperation with Visit Puolanka, the Municipality of Puolanka, and the UVM project, co-funded by the European Union
The Pyssykulju loop, spanning 4 kilometers, offers an accessible outing for families, including those with young children. The trail begins and ends at a charming lean-to shelter by a tranquil lake, showcasing a picturesque landscape that evolves with each step. For adults, the journey is a treat, featuring the iconic forested hills and lakes that define Kainuu’s natural beauty.
Exploring the Pyssykulju Loop Trail
Before embarking on my adventure, I took some time to study the map of the Pyssykulju area, located southeast of the village of Puolanka. The terrain promised a delightful blend of kettle hole landscapes and the forested hills that are characteristic of the Kainuu region.
The name “Pyssykulju” intrigued me. In the dialects of northern Finland and Kainuu, it translates to something akin to “hollow in bog.” Yet, according to the map, it designates a hill that rises nearly 300 meters above sea level. Nearby, the lakes Pyssylampi and Upokas are nestled in depressions, possibly deep kettle holes. Local tales suggest that the name Pyssylampi may even hark back to ancient skirmishes between Finns and Russians.
Though I couldn’t recall ever hearing about Pyssykulju or the loop trail before, the ride towards it from Puolanka gradually sparked a sense of déjà vu.
Upon arriving at the spacious parking area next to Hyrynsalmentie road, I marked the beginning of my hike by following the trail signs. Interestingly, a mountain biking route marked in green parallels my path, adding to the area’s appeal.
It didn’t take long to realize where that familiar feeling was originating from. A sign near the entry to the Pyssykulju trail, displaying previous years’ dates, reminded me that the Kainuu Orienteering Week had taken place here on multiple occasions. To my surprise, I recalled attending its inaugural event at age nine. Although I was not competing, I vividly remember accompanying my father and a friend to Puolanka to witness the races, with the enchanting forest scenery leaving a lasting impression on me.
As I arrived at the well-kept lean-to shelter, I noted with a grin that it was possible to access the site by car. Nevertheless, the few extra hundred meters of walking felt refreshing.
The loop trail begins right at the lean-to shelter, which occupies an inviting spot along the shore of Pyssylampi lake. The area is expansive and perfect for families with children. I was fortunate enough to pick a windless day, and with no mosquitoes in sight, my surroundings felt idyllic. At the starting point, amenities included a dry toilet and a firewood shed. Before commencing the loop, I took a moment to admire the crystal-clear waters of Pyssylampi, with a few summer cottages peeking through the trees on the opposite shore.
I also discovered that the area offers longer hiking options. The allure of the mountain biking trail lingered in my mind, prompting me to note its starting point for future exploration. The pine forests, with their needle-carpeted paths, are excellent for mountain biking.
The Pyssykulju loop is marked in red, and I soon encountered a fork in the path. Without much thought, I veered right, beginning my journey anticlockwise. Almost immediately, the trail dipped into a lush stream valley bridging Pyssylampi and Upokas lakes, where I crossed over a charming little bridge.
Ascending from the valley, the trail climbed to a ridge adorned with a pleasant pine forest. The elevation gain of about 40 meters over a few hundred meters felt invigorating. Following a junction towards Kuirivaara hill, I noticed the path descending onto the north-facing slope above Upokas lake, although the lake itself remained hidden behind the thick foliage of dense trees.
The mountain biking trail intertwines with the loop in places, but the red trail markers ensure I stayed on course. After approximately 1.3 kilometers, I reached a gravel road, marking the shortcut option. Those who chose to turn left and follow the road for half a kilometer would find themselves back on the marked trail. This shortcut shortens the journey to a comfortable 2.5 kilometers.
Upon crossing the gravel road, I noticed an impressive old pine tree to my right, weathered yet resilient, having survived at least one forest fire in its long life.
Approaching the power line that bisects the area, I sensed that the most challenging climb was near. I felt a twinge of nervousness about how my legs would hold up after experiencing calf cramps the previous week. Thankfully, the stiffness had ebbed, and the well-trodden path made the ascent manageable. As I walked along the needle-carpeted trail, bilberry bushes brushed against my ankles.
Reaching the crest of the steep climb, I encountered a delightful surprise: a small clearing that granted a stunning view to the west. Forests and hills stretched endlessly, with the gentle curve of Lake Puolankajärvi visible on the horizon.
The summit was a young mixed forest, lush with mid-summer greenery, where may lily and wood cranesbill graced the edges of the path with vibrant hues.
As I continued along the trail, the descent led into a shadowy spruce forest, then through some spots where thinning work had taken place, revealing glimpses of Pyssylampi and Upokas lakes set against the eastern hills.
After descending, the landscape transformed into classic kettle hole scenery. The trail followed the western shore of Upokas, though the lake nestled quietly in its deep hollow remained out of sight. Here, the slopes were draped in a magnificent old spruce forest.
The path continued pleasantly through undulating terrain, navigating over small ridges and dipping into hollows. In some of the wetter patches, cloudberries and bunchberries burst into bloom.
Soon, I reached the familiar junction signaling the loop’s completion, with just 100 meters left back to the lean-to shelter. There, I encountered a couple taking advantage of the steep ridge above the shelter for hill sprints.
It was clear this area enjoyed popularity among the locals. As noted on the Municipality of Puolanka’s website, the trail is one of the oldest hiking routes in the region. While it may be deemed demanding in its description, I would classify it as moderate at most, with much of the path being family-friendly and perfectly suited for those hiking with children. The trail concludes at the lean-to shelter by Pyssylampi lake, an inviting endpoint.
I lingered a bit longer to contemplate the information board, debating whether to have my trail lunch there or drive a short distance to Hepoköngäs to view one of Finland’s highest waterfalls.
Gun Corridor S-Size Route
S: The Pyssykulju loop is approximately 4 kilometers long, traversing through enchanting pine forests and hilly terrain. It can easily be curtailed to 2.5 kilometers. If starting from the Hyrynsalmentie roadside parking area, the total distance comes to just under 5 kilometers.
A marked mountain biking route also connects Puolanka to the Pyssykulju area, enhancing the adventurous options for visitors.
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