Paavon Polku nature trail 2.7 km, Sodankylä

When you start, familiarize yourself with the information board located in the eastern corner of the parking area and step through the gate. The first hundred meters of the route lead through the forest along the river. The gravel-covered, rather wide path is well suited for those with strollers and wheelchairs. This section of the path takes you to Jokilaavu, where several people can have a snack at the same time. The yard also includes a viewing platform over the Orajo river, as well as a toilet and a wood shed.

After Jokilaavu, the route narrows and continues along boardwalks into the forest. The path is sometimes narrow and tree roots require more careful steps than before. When the route approaches a gravel road crossing, be careful. Especially in mid-summer when deciduous trees are lush, the trail markings can be challenging to spot. 

You will reach a junction where you can choose a shorter shortcut of just under two kilometers instead of the full loop. The longer route takes you again to varied landscapes towards the Meteorological Institute's research station. On this section, you also travel through pleasant ridge landscapes and see a bird feeding station with somewhat unusual snacks. After this, the shortcut rejoins the main route.

Both the longer and shorter routes lead to Jänkalaavu, where you can take a break in an open forest landscape by the edge of a bog. After Jänkalaavu, you continue along boardwalks over a short bog section and soon arrive back at the same place you started from.

The route is marked in the terrain both with signposts and painted markers. By following the orange painted markers, you cover the entire Paavon polku. If you want a slightly shorter trip, follow the blue painted markers (shortcut). The recommended direction to travel the route is counter-clockwise.

Wear sturdy shoes, as the path has uneven spots, tree roots, and boardwalks. In spring and wet weather, sneakers and pant legs may get wet as there are some damp areas on the path. Dress according to the weather. Pack enough drinking water and snacks. A headlamp is a good help in the dark – the route is not illuminated.

Even though the route is classified as easy, wear sturdy shoes. The path sometimes follows boardwalks and also has some narrow, rooty sections. The path can be slippery especially in wet weather! If there are small children in your group, pay attention to their activities at the Orajokivarsi laavu – the river flows right next to the kota (tent hut). Fires are allowed only in designated campfire sites. Check that there is no valid forest fire warning in the area. The route is not maintained in winter (the parking area is regularly plowed). Have you downloaded the 112 app to your phone? If not, here is the link to the download instructions for the 112 app.

Directions from Sodankylä center (Jäämerentie)
Drive south on Jäämerentie until you reach the intersection with Kemijärventie. Turn left towards Kemijärvi. Drive about one kilometer until you reach the intersection with Orajärventie. Turn right and continue along Orajärventie for about 8 kilometers until you see the sign "Paavon polku" on the left side of the road. Turn left and drive about 600 meters forward until you reach the Paavon polku parking area.

Note! The road leading to the starting point of the path may be in poor condition especially in spring and autumn. Drive carefully!

You cannot reach the starting point of Paavon polku by public transport; the distance from the Sodankylä bus station to the starting point is about 10 kilometers. 

A free parking area at the starting point of the path that fits more than ten cars.

Fishing permits: 2404 Sodankylä, state owned waters