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Outdoor destinations

Pöyrisjärvi Wilderness Reserve offers wonderful possibilities for canoeing. The River Pöyrisjoki, which has its source at Lake Pöyrisjärvi, and the River Käkkälöjoki are both excellent canoeing routes.

River Pöyrisjoki, 43 km

The River Pöyrisjoki is a demanding canoe route, has its starting point at Lake Pöyrisjärvi and flows at its end into Lake Vuontisjärvi. There is a 100 m change in altitude along the 43 km river. There are several rocky rapids in the river and it is best to canoe when waters are high. The rapids get more difficult as you get further down the river and they range in classification from I to V. The Kuirinkurkkio and Kirkkokurkkio Rapids are the most challenging; Kuirinkurkkio is classed as extremely dangerous. It is a short section though, which can be passed easily by carrying your canoe along the riverbank.

Services: The Bievrrašjávri / Pöyrisjärvi open wilderness and shared rental hut is situated near Lake Pöyrisjärvi.

The River Pöyrisjoki can be seen on the following topographical maps (1:50 000): V423 Enontekiö and V424 Näkkälä. It is also on the Enontekiö guide and recreational map 1:100 000. You can get further information on canoeing and fishing in the River Pöyrisjoki at Fell-Lapland Visitor Centre.

River Käkkälöjoki, 40 km

The River Käkkälöjoki (40 km). The source of the river is near the Norwegian border, but the canoeing portion begins at Kalmakaltio Spring, which can be reached by car from the village of Nunnanen. From Kalmakaltio it is 14.5 km to a main road and 40 km to the River Ounasjoki. The River Käkkälöjoki flows into the River Ounasjoki at Haarakoski Rapids about 14.5 km from the village of Hetta. You can continue your canoeing trip along the River Ounasjoki. The River Käkkälöjoki is suitable for beginners as the river's rapids are not very strong.

Service: Galbmagáldu / Kalmakaltio open wilderness hut and Njallastohpu / Nallatupa open wilderness hut are on the banks of the River Käkkälöjoki.