Juutuan Polku

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Juutuan Polku is a Hiking Trail in Finland

Juutuan Polku (Juutua Trail) is a scenic hiking path that follows the Juutuanjoki river from the village of Inari to the Ritakoski rapids and onward to Lake Inari in northern Finnish Lapland. The full trail is around 7 km one way and passes through varied terrain, dense boreal forest of pine and birch, open riverside meadows, and rocky sections along the riverbank where the water runs fast and clear over a gravel bed. The route is mostly flat and well marked, though less manicured than the shorter Ritakoski trail, giving it a wilder and more immersive feel. Along the way, there are several laavu (open-sided wooden shelters) with fire pits where hikers can stop to rest, cook or warm up. In summer, the trail offers long daylight hours, wildflowers and good chances of spotting birdlife along the river. In winter, it transforms into a snow-covered corridor through silent forest, walkable with snowshoes or on foot depending on conditions. The Juutua Trail connects two of the Inari area’s best features: the village itself, with the Siida Sámi museum and local services, and the open shores of Lake Inari with its vast, unobstructed skies. Walking the trail after dark in winter puts you well away from the village’s modest light pollution, with clearings along the river providing open views to the north: ideal for catching the aurora overhead.

Where to find Juutuan Polku?

68°54'14"N, 26°59'52"E

Aurora hunting in Inari?

The aurora season here runs from September to March, with the best chances of seeing the Northern Lights in September, October, February and March. The natural setting around Juutuan Polku makes it a wonderful spot to watch for the Northern Lights.

Other places to try near Juutuan Polku