Änäkäinen
Wartime Fortifications and Tank Obstacles
Kivivaarantie Road, which leads to the Finnish-Russian border, is bisected in Änäkäinen by an impressive row of stone tank obstacles. Known as the Rukajärvi Road during the Continuation War, this iconic battlefield is conveniently located in the middle of the Änäkäinen forests, and a visit to experience the atmosphere of the Winter and Continuation Wars can easily be combined with a refreshing outing in the area’s natural surroundings.
Hiking in the Shadow of the Salpa Line
The area’s military history spans the entire timeline of Finland’s wars, from the battles of the Winter War to the Salpa Line, which was constructed during the interim peace, and the fortifications that served during the Continuation War. On the southern side of the area, there are three military history hiking trails: the Front Line Trail, the Bunker Trail, and the Quarry Trail. At the northern end of the area, there is also a short loop trail that circles a great fishing spot, Lake Saarijärvi, also known as Iso-Änäkäinen
