51 km
3-4 hours
360m
309m
66 %
2 %
2
100 %
Later on, the slower start is balanced out by the paved Lohirannantie road section. The route makes a stop at an old log transportation facility—an interesting reminder of how forestry has shaped both the region’s history and its road network. Soon after, you reach the shores of Lake Livojärvi, which can justifiably be called one of the most beautiful lakes in Finland: white sand beaches, crystal-clear water and classic glacial ridge scenery make the area truly exceptional.
The highlight of the stage is the Livojärvi hiking and recreation network, combining small bridges, occasional rooty singletrack and easy pine-forest paths to reach the long esker running through the lake. Getting onto the esker includes a unique detail: a short rowing boat crossing. The roughly 15 km esker section can be occasionally technical and may include short hike-a-bike moments, but overall it is one of the most immersive cycling experiences in the area—sand, old-growth forest, and panoramic views across open water both to the north and to the south. The stage ends at the Livojärvi Kotakahvila (café), or—if you still have energy—you can continue all the way back to Posio village.
- The Livojärvi esker – one of Finland’s finest cycling sections
- Old forest roads and track network: slow, but rewarding “adventure riding”
- Kellinniemi area – a small outdoor paradise
- The route works on any bike that fits at least 50 mm tyres. Experienced riders may manage with 45 mm, but wider tyres (50 mm or more) are strongly recommended here, as they add comfort and flotation on softer sections and short singletrack parts.
- The gravel cycling season around Posio typically starts no later than early June, once roads have dried and firmed up after spring thaw. It usually ends in late September when autumn rains begin and temperatures drop below zero. First snow often arrives in early October, although year-to-year variation is significant. Day rides are generally fine even during Lapland’s peak mosquito season, but if you want to avoid the worst insects, plan your visit from mid-August to late September.
- The route is digital-navigation only and not signposted on the ground. Navigation is done with a GPS device such as a watch, smartphone or bike computer. Stay on the official route and use only the recommended camp and break spots described in the route information.
- Mobile coverage may be limited in parts of the area. Emergency calls work via 112 or the 112 app when a signal is available. Carry basic first aid supplies and bike repair tools. Lapland weather can change quickly, so layering and waterproof gear are highly recommended.
- This stage works well as a day trip if you are staying near Posio village. Himmerki Resort offers a wide range of accommodation options from camping to small cabins and premium log villas.
- It can also be ridden as a relaxed overnight trip by using accommodation at Kitkan Riisi, about 72 km from the route start. In that case, day two is around 35 km, mostly a quiet paved transfer back toward Posio.
- There are no food or water points on the route, so carry everything you need for the day.
- Much of the route is relatively slow-going. The maze-like forest road start is not highly technical, but progress can still be slow due to surface quality and constant direction changes.
- In the Livojärvi recreation area there is a roughly 2 km singletrack section that may include some short hike-a-bike for some riders. The reward is the scenery. Total ascent is about 510 m, which is fairly typical for a 50 km ride in Finland.
- Overall, this is a moderately demanding stage: the pace is slow and there are short technical sections, so the day can feel longer than the kilometres suggest.
- Access to the start point requires a shuttle/transfer service. Returning to Posio village can be arranged by shuttle as well, or by riding back.
- Getting to Posio is easiest by taking a day or night train to Rovaniemi and continuing by bus (about 2 hours). There are multiple Helsinki–Rovaniemi trains daily, usually including one night train. Bike spaces can sell out during peak holiday periods, but with several departures per day you do not always need to book far in advance—unless you specifically want the night train.
- The Rovaniemi–Posio bus carries only a few bikes at a time, but on most departures you can reserve a bike space in advance via Matkahuolto.
- Some Posio gravel routes require logistics support, and a new transport service is planned for summer 2026 to handle rider logistics and potential evacuations from routes. With this service, the Riisitunturi National Park Loop can be finished at Korpihilla.