Hepoköngäs is the highest natural waterfall in Finland, plunging 24 metres down a rocky cliff in the pristine wilderness of Puolanka. Set in the heart of Finnish Lapland’s taiga forest, this thunderous cascade is a powerful reminder that Finland’s beauty goes far beyond its famous lakes — it’s a hidden gem for nature lovers seeking raw Arctic scenery.
Quick Facts
- Best time to visit: Late May–June for the most powerful water flow from snowmelt; winter for frozen ice formations
- Height: 24 metres (79 feet)
- How to get there: ~80km from Kajaani by car; nearest village is Puolanka (17km); well-signposted trail from the parking area
- Entry fee: Free
- Hiking: A 500m trail leads to the viewing platform; additional trails extend through the surrounding Hepoköngäs Nature Reserve
The Hepoköngäs Experience
The waterfall is formed where the Hepoköngäs stream drops over a steep cliff into a rocky gorge. The name “Hepoköngäs” translates roughly to “horse rapids” — though the sound of the water in full flow is more like rolling thunder. A robust wooden viewing platform and staircase provide excellent vantage points from multiple levels.
The surrounding Hepoköngäs Nature Reserve protects 1.5 km² of old-growth taiga forest, with trails that wind through spruce woods and along the stream. In summer, keep an eye out for Siberian jays and white-throated dippers bobbing in the rapids. In winter, the entire waterfall freezes into a dramatic ice sculpture — a completely different but equally mesmerising experience.
Hepoköngäs is the highest waterfall in Finland. It is located in the central part of the country, in the province of Oulu, in Kainuu region, about 16 km from the village Puolanka. Water falls down from a height of 24 meters. The waterfall Hepoköngäs is surrounded by the beautiful forests.
To get to the waterfall you can use wooden walkways, which is suitable also for cyclists or families with prams. The waterfall is a part of the Hepoköngäs Nature Reserve. At present, the waterfall Hepoköngäs is very popular tourist destination in Finland.
View Hepoköngäs – the highest waterfall in Finland in a larger map
Have you visited Hepoköngäs – the highest waterfall in Finland? I’d love to hear about your experience and any travel tips in the comments below!
Discover more destinations in our sitemap or explore by destination.
