The competition site is located at the heart of the 100-metre-long Neitikoski rapid. This unique venue offers reliable conditions throughout the paddling season, which runs from May to November. In June, the midnight sun makes it possible to paddle in daylight around the clock. The Lieksanjoki River flows freely into Neitikoski with no upstream dams, while surrounding lakes and swamps naturally regulate water levels, preventing sudden changes in volume.
Depending on the flow, Neitikoski forms either a mid-sized hole, a mid-sized wave, or a versatile mix of both. The feature consistently delivers world-class conditions for paddlers of all levels—from beginners to seasoned experts. At flows below 100 m³/s, it behaves more like a hole; above 100 m³/s, it develops into a wave. Almost every water level, however, allows for both hole and wave moves.
In mid-June, the median flow is about 120 m³/s. The feature works reliably up to 200 m³/s and exceeding that flow happens more seldom than every 10 years. The feature spans 10–15 metres in width, depending on the flow, with a large eddy conveniently positioned on the lake side. The water is deep and safe, with contact with rocks possibly only when flows drop below 60 m³/s.
Paddling on the Neitikoski is free of charge.
Water quality
Water quality is good for swimming but not for drinking so take your own water bottle with you.
Water safety
The Lieksanjoki River is not dangerous at any water level during paddling season. The rapid flows into a lake after the playspot, making it a very safe location, but make sure to wear your personal safety equipment while being on the water! During winter months (November to April) when the lake below the rapid is frozen, paddling may however be dangerous. During the competition and official training a safety crew will be available.
Watch out for rafts!
Local companies in the Ruunaa area organize rafting trips daily, normally around mid day. The program also includes running the Neitikoski rapids, either with a raft or a wooden boat.
Never enter to the feature if you see the raft or boat approaching. You should always observe upstream before entering to the feature and it is your duty to yield downstream traffic, is it rafts, boats or canoes. Use your paddle to show the “stop” sign if someone is in the feature – or “all clear” sign if the feature is free for rafts. Normally after shooting through the rapid they make loop back to the rapid and drive the downstream second time.
Source: https://wwwi2.ymparisto.fi/i2/04/q0400600y/wqfi.html
Water temperature
Source: https://wwwi2.ymparisto.fi/i2/04/q0400600y/wqfi.html
