Kainuu Orienteering Week and Kainuu Trail 2025 approaching – Kainuu Trail heading towards new participant records

Published: 18.06.2025

Preparations for Kainuu Orienteering Week are progressing rapidly, with thousands of participants already registered.
After the late registration phase ended in early June, 1,781 competitors (individual persons) have registered for the competition categories and 450 for the open orienteering classes (individual persons).

According to Event Secretary General Jukka Liuha, a significant number of recreational orienteers are still expected to register on-site during the event week. Based on data from over 14 years, the total number of orienteers is estimated to reach 3,000–3,250. In addition, approximately 1,500 other visitors—such as spectators, support teams and partners—are expected to be present in the event area.

While registration for the competition categories is now closed, it is still possible to register on-site for the open classes during the event week. In some cases, registration for the competition categories may also be possible if there are last-minute openings in specific classes.

Kainuu MTB Orienteering Week running alongside the main event

The Kainuu MTB Orienteering Week will be held alongside Kainuu Orienteering Week, and over 180 participants have already registered. According to Event Director Mika Häkkinen, a total of 270–280 participants are expected once recreational mountain bike orienteers are included. An additional 150 spectators, supporters and stakeholder representatives are also anticipated.

Kainuu Trail kicks off the event week in Hossa National Park

The trail running event will take place on Saturday, June 28, amidst the stunning scenery of Hossa National Park. This year, the event is on track to reach a new participation record. Currently, 560 runners are already registered, and another 60–100 are expected to sign up in the final weeks. This means a record-breaking number of trail runners are anticipated to take to the trails in Hossa on Saturday, June 28. In addition, approximately 300 other participants and followers are expected at the event.

Race Director Liuha reminds that registration for Kainuu Trail is open until Friday, June 27 at 20:00, as long as places are available in each category. A limited number of additional slots have been reserved per category, but the event may close earlier if capacity is reached. On-site registration on the morning of the event will also be possible, but only if places are still available in the desired category.

More than 5,000 people from 22 countries expected in Kainuu during the event week

Altogether, Kainuu Orienteering Week, Kainuu MTBO Week, and Kainuu Trail are expected to attract over 5,000 individuals from 22 different countries to Kainuu during the event week—including orienteers, MTBO participants, trail runners, support crews, spectators and other visitors. This makes it one of the largest annual sports tourism events in Finland.

New in 2025: Free bus transportation from Kajaani

A new feature in 2025 is the free bus service from Kajaani to the event locations, available to both orienteers and trail runners. Seats are limited, so early registration is recommended. Bus schedules and more details can be found on our website under the arriving section.

Now it’s easier than ever to join – with free transport arranged, all you need to do is show up and enjoy an unforgettable outdoor experience in the heart of Kainuu – by orienteering, mountain biking, or trail running!