Naruska: River, Fells and Cultural Heritage

Hill and fell landscape at Karhutunturi

The area around the villages of Naruska and Pulkkaviita is characterised by a rugged hill and fell landscape. This sets it apart from the rest of the Salla region. Karhutunturi is considered a landmark of Naruska; from its summit, the landscape of Lapland stretches out in every direction. The villages’ rugged landscape and the sweeping summit views thus offer two different perspectives on the area.

River and fishing

The Naruskajoki, about 50 kilometres long, runs from Naruskajärvi to its confluence with the Tenniöjoki at the southern edge of the village of Naruska. The river area is considered easily accessible. Three bridges make it easier to cross the river when fishing from the bank. If you plan to use these crossings, check the condition of the bridges before your trip.

Both summer and winter fishing are possible on the Naruskajoki. Water and ice conditions can change. There are also opportunities for fishing and ice fishing on the lakes north of Naruska. Check the current fishing regulations and any required permits before setting out.

UKK Trail and summit

The UKK Trail runs through Naruska from north to south and crosses Karhutunturi. It is shown on current outdoor maps, including a 1:100,000-scale map for Salla–Savukoski. The trail markers are clear. If you are planning to use a particular edition of the map, check its availability in advance.

Two different conditions at Karhutunturi are important when planning your trip: frequent winds can be expected in every season, while the boulder fields on the rocky summit are especially difficult to cross when wet during the snow-free season. A large wooden hut with a fireplace stands on the slope, where you can warm provisions and make coffee. Firewood is kept in the hut’s woodshed. If you are counting on using the fireplace, check its condition before your visit.

Kullaoja Falls and other waterside spots

Kullaoja Falls are near Naruska, in a forest beside a pond with clear water. From a signpost on Värriönpirtintie, a walking path about 0.5 kilometres long leads to the falls. Steps and a bench were built in spring 2018; if their condition matters for your visit, check them on site.

At Naruskan Tammi, shortly after turning off Naruskantie in the direction of the falls, there is a rest area with a fireplace. In Haltinmutka, there is a swimming beach next to the Naruska village association’s hut. Together with the falls and the rest area, these are other specific points to help you find your way around Naruska.

Local history

Suoltijoen pirtti is part of the nationally significant built cultural heritage site “Lapin uitto- ja savottatukikohdat”. The site represents the final phase of the large forestry work camps, before mechanised logging camps operated with smaller crews. This historical context adds a perspective on Lapland’s working history to the themes of landscape and rivers.

Discover more destinations: Rautuskylä, Utsjoki, Nuorgam, Sodankylä, Pello, Räisälä, Ivalo, Enontekiö

For the broader travel overview: Lapland.