Oulanka Visitor Centre

Why it matters: run free of charge by Metsahallitus (Parks & Wildlife Finland), this is the conservation gateway to Oulanka National Park – protected since 1956 – and the legendary 80km Karhunkierros trail. The award-winning exhibition ‘On the Banks of a Flowing River’ explains the fragile river ecosystem you are about to walk into, and rangers hand out trail conditions, maps and fishing permits at no cost. Walk the easy 2km nature trail from the centre out to the thundering Kiutakongas rapids before you set off. Tip: it is open daily in summer but closes for much of winter, so check hours before the long drive out from town.