Highlight • Lake
Kivijärvi is a significant and rather large lake located in the heart of Central Finland, specifically within the municipalities of Kivijärvi, Kannonkoski, and Kinnula. True to its Finnish name, meaning "stony lake," it is characterized by rocky shores and numerous underwater formations. At an elevation of 136 metres, Kivijärvi holds the distinction of being the largest of 121 lakes in Finland sharing the same name, and ranks as the 30th largest lake in the entire country.
Visitors consistently praise Kivijärvi…
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September 1, 2025
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Elevation 140 m
Kivijärvi offers a diverse range of activities throughout the year. In warmer months, visitors can enjoy fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and swimming. The area is also excellent for hiking and bird watching, particularly within the nearby Salamajärvi National Park. During winter, the frozen lake transforms into a landscape perfect for ice fishing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.
While the intro mentions hiking in Salamajärvi National Park, specific trails like the Palonvuori Trail and the Isojoki Nature Reserve offer varied experiences. The municipality also features the Kivijärvi Hill viewpoint, which provides scenic vistas of the lake and surrounding wilderness. For detailed trail information and elevation profiles, it's advisable to check local trail maps or komoot for community-contributed routes.
Yes, Kivijärvi is considered family-friendly. Beyond hiking, families can enjoy swimming in the lake during summer, exploring the peaceful nature, and potentially engaging in activities like canoeing or kayaking. The municipality also offers unique attractions such as chainsaw sculptures in the town center, which can be an interesting stop for children.
The Kivijärvi municipality has invested in nature tourism, offering various accommodation options. A unique choice includes Niliaittas, which are granaries resting on a single post, providing stunning lake views. There are also likely other local guesthouses, cabins, and potentially camping sites, though specific names would require local inquiry.
Generally, Finland's outdoor areas are welcoming to dogs, provided they are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them. While specific 'dog walking areas' aren't detailed, the numerous forest-lined roads and trails, including those in Salamajärvi National Park (with specific regulations), are suitable for walks with dogs. Always check local signage for any restrictions, especially in protected areas.
The best time for swimming in Kivijärvi is typically during the warmer summer months, from June to August, when water temperatures are most comfortable. The lake's clean nature makes it an inviting spot for wild swimming.
Yes, the municipality of Kivijärvi, which borders the lake, offers local amenities including cafes and restaurants. While specific names are not provided in the available data, visitors can expect to find options for refreshments and meals within the main settlement areas.
Boaters should exercise caution due to Kivijärvi's name, meaning 'stony lake,' which accurately describes its character. The lake has rocky shores and numerous rocks beneath the water's surface. Its varied bottom contours, with abrupt drops, underwater ridges, and bumps, also require careful navigation.
Kivijärvi is renowned as a productive fishing destination. It boasts a strong stock of zander, and catches of pike and various salmonoids are also common. A notable catch was a 10.1 kg (22 lb) lake trout in 2001, indicating the potential for significant catches. The lake's varied underwater terrain makes for interesting fishing grounds.
Kivijärvi is a significant lake in Central Finland, covering a surface area of 154.03 square kilometers (59.47 sq mi). It is quite long and narrow, stretching almost 50 kilometers (31 mi) in a north-south direction. The lake is located within the municipalities of Kivijärvi, Kannonkoski, and Kinnula.
Yes, canoeing and kayaking are popular activities on Kivijärvi, especially during the warmer months. While specific rental locations are not detailed, it is common for nature tourism destinations in Finland to offer equipment rentals. Inquire locally upon arrival or check with accommodation providers for canoe or kayak rental options.