Jämäsvaara

Jämäsvaara attracts visitors with its old-growth forests, rocky slopes, small waterways, and peatland areas. The visually striking landscapes are easy to reach, as the area is located only about 20 km from the center of Kuhmo. Thanks to its location and character, Jämäsvaara is an excellent destination for a day trip—whether for the whole family or for school groups.

The Jämäsvaara recreational forest area consists of Jämäsvaara, Hepovaara, and Särkivaara, as well as the areas around Lake Kalliojärvi and Katajakangas. Due to its size, integrity, and diverse natural environment, the Jämäsvaara area is considered an exceptionally valuable natural site on a national scale. It is characterized by extensive, intact catchment areas, representative natural forests, and impressive hill landscapes.

From the top of Jämäsvaara, there are beautiful views of Lake Jämäsjärvi shimmering below and the surrounding forests. From the mires and waters, you can in turn admire the rugged rocky slopes of the hills.

Trail starting points

Hiking routes in Jämäsvaara can be accessed from the eastern side via Jämäsjärventie, at the Loukkukangas and Jämäsvaara parking areas, as well as from the western side via the Miettulantie parking area. At the western end of Lake Kymmensylinen, about 1 km from the Kuhmo–Valtimo road, there is a launching site for canoes and small boats.

Services

There are lean-to shelters with campfire sites at the shores of Kaksilampinen and Hepolampi, as well as a campfire site at Hiekka on the shore of Lake Jämäsjärvi. Outside the main Jämäsvaara trail network, there is also a campfire site at Hanhilampi (no longer maintained as of 2026).

A lean-to shelter with a campfire site is also located by Lake Kalliojärvi, slightly off the trail but in a very beautiful setting. If you continue north from the Hanhilampi shelter, the ridge offers stunning views over the surrounding peatland landscape.

In Viitasaari, there is an open wilderness hut called Jämäshovi.

Sights

Jämäsvaara, Hepovaara, and the area’s old-growth forests.

New circular trail opening in 2026

Metsähallitus is preparing a new hiking trail in Jämäsvaara, Kuhmo, offering visitors even more diverse ways to experience the area’s nature.

With the new route, Jämäsvaara will feature a circular trail of approximately 7 km. Hikers can also extend their trip into a day hike of up to 10 km. The trail will officially open in spring 2026, but it is already accessible and marked in the terrain with blue ribbons.

The new route runs from Hepovaara via the Kaksilampinen lean-to shelter to the Kaksilampinen parking area.

For more information and a map, visit: Luontoon.fi

Please always check the latest information regarding route conditions or possible changes on the luontoon.fi website.