Ruunaa Rapids

The Lieksanjoki drops through a series of six rapids at Ruunaa in eastern North Karelia, separated by stretches of quiet water, and the area has been developed for two things: running the rapids and fishing them. Rafting trips take groups down the whole sequence in inflatables through the summer, and traditional wooden boats are also used. The river is stocked and permits are sold for fly fishing for trout and grayling. Around the water are pine forest, suspension bridges, marked walking trails, huts and campsites, and the whole area is a standard summer destination in this part of the country. Hydro development elsewhere makes free-running rapids like these unusual.

What you actually see

• Six rapids in sequence - the chain the river drops through.
• Rafting the whole run - the trips through all the rapids.
• Suspension bridges over the river - the crossings on the walking routes.
• Fly fishing for trout and grayling - the permitted stretches.

When to go

June to September for rafting and fishing; water levels are highest after snowmelt. A day. Rafting is booked in advance; fishing permits are bought locally or online.

Honest expectations

Rafting is a commercial trip on a set schedule, not an independent activity. Fishing needs a permit and the rules are strict. Mosquitoes are heavy in midsummer. It is a long drive from anywhere and there is no public transport.

Nearby

Lieksa is west; the border zone lies east.