My favorite gravel routes in Rovaniemi

Looking for a gravel routes in Rovaniemi? Here is mine favorite gravel routes what I strongly recommend, to explore beautiful Rovaniemi. I started gravel cycling myself this summer, so no worries these gravel routes are suitable for beginners. Because of the difference height your legs might get little tired in this cycling.

Santavaara/Kuninkaanlaavu day trip

Santavaara located 10km from the center of Rovaniemi, so out & back 20km. Most of the road are asphalt in this trip, Santavaarantie is dirt road perfect for a gravel bike. From the top of the hill you can see twisty Ounasjoki-river. It is also a great place to see auroras, because the views open to North-West. But remember to take headlight with you, because there are no street lights. You can find two fireplaces here where you can grill some food or just relax and enjoy the Lappish views. It is easy to get there, just pay attention when you are cycling on the motor road, stay on the right side of the road. Here is direction and map how you can reach Kuninkaanlaavu by gravel bike.

Gravel through Ounasvaara

On the routes of Ounasvaara you can cycle over 20km in the forest, combining different dirt roads or paths. For the beginners there are this bigger walking routes. But there are also many paths that are made by Roll outdoors, easiest paths are suitable for gravelbikes. This is one of my favorites routes in Ounasvaara: From the citycenter cycle to Lapland Hotels Ounasvaara and from there to Isorakka. When you have reached the Isorakka, there is sign to Väiskinlaavu, follow it. When you are at the next intersection, turn right to Pöyliövaara. Now you can choose ether you will head up to Pöyliövaara or cycle back to the city. If you choose to visit Pöyliövaara you can bicycle back the same route or take the asphalt route and maybe visit also forest museum. Ounasvaara is a popular outdoor area, there are also other people in the terrain, such as walkers, runners or even reindeer.

Tips

• Make sure you have all the bike repair stuff with you.
• Download map to your phone, in case of no internet connection.
• Get familiar with outdoor etiquette.
• As there is no shops in the forest, bring water and food with you.
• Dress warmly, especially in autumn the temperatures can change quickly.

If you end up to gravel this routes, I hope you will enjoy them as much as I do. Have you tried gravel biking, if yes please share your experience!