Mystical Kolvananuuro

I first got to the place in April, when there was still quite a lot of snow. The adventure didn't go quite according to plan, as the snowshoes were no longer holding up properly and with almost every step my feet sank into the snow, making it difficult to move forward and getting my shoes and socks wet. There was also no proper trail to walk on and the equipment was poor. That adventure was short. I decided to try again in the summer with better luck.

Summer came and we arrived here. Enchanting, mystical, magnificent, wild. These words ran through my mind after walking for a while at the bottom of the gorge valley. Absolutely untouched nature, stones, rocks, various plants, trees, butterflies and birds. Everything mixed up and so wonderfully harmonious. Kolvananuuro has a long history, as it was formed millions of years ago as a deep scar in the bedrock and when you arrive here you really feel like you have gone back in time. It is good for people to be here.

Kolvananuuro is located on the border of Joensuu (Eno) and Kontiolahti and can be reached by two different routes, either via Eno or Kontiolahti. We took the Uuro route, which is 5km long. You can start the route from the parking areas on the Eno or Kontiolahti side. We started the adventure from the Uuronvaara (Eno) parking area and it is also apparently more recommended. There are also good signs to the place.
From the Uuronvaara parking area, it is about a kilometer and a steep descent into the gorge valley, from where you start walking clockwise along the Uuro route.

The trail is difficult and therefore it is worth setting aside plenty of time for it, but fortunately there is no rush in the adventure. The trail has steep ups and downs, tree roots and rocks, so watch where you step, otherwise you may easily stumble. ''The floor is lava'' - is a great playful tip for these trails. Also remember to stop occasionally to look at this diverse natural wonder, because you don't see something like this every day.

The terrain at the bottom of the gorge is quite bad, so don't organize a team meeting while you're out hiking. There's a good place for your phone at the bottom of the backpack, and you can even dig it out from there to take pictures.

I can happily recommend this place. Bring plenty of water, food, and weather-appropriate gear for your adventure, and off you go! 🙂