Oulu Waterfront Spectacular

Among our several centrally located waterfront routes in Oulu, this 11 km loop is focused on paths along the Merikoski Raoids and the Ouloujoki River in Oulu and Tuira. It’s almost all on pedestrian/cycle paths, mostly along the water, with great views.

The first section is 5 km on the south side of the bay, on paths along the Merikoski Rapids and the Ouloujoki River, between Hollihaka Park (Hollihaan puisto) near central Oulu and the Erkkolan Bridge (Erkkolansilta) in the east. There are paths right along the water most of the way. This includes a beautiful section along the water to Ainolan Park, a major city park with numerous paths, both along the water and inland, including fountains around the Oulu sign.

Loop Option: You can make this run sort of a loop by running along the waterfront path in the Tuira district on the northern side of the bay. Retrace your steps from Erkkolan Bridge for 2 km, then cross the Rautasilta (Bridge) for 2 km. Run for 1.8 km along the water in Tuira,  then take the pedestrian bridge across the bay, enjoying the great views of Oulu Castle, crossing Kuusisaari Island (fitness park & running track!).

Shorter Option: Eliminate the 2 km between the Erkkolan Bridge & Rautasilta, focusing your route on the central section.

Longer Option: On the Tuira side, add 1 km further west along the waterfront to Hietasaarentie.