Herajärvi Hiking Trail in Koli - Northern Loop, 35 km

The national park’s highest peaks are right at the start of the trail, and after passing them, you can admire the carefully maintained meadows with their abundant variety of butterflies and plant species. Along the route, you’ll see diverse pine forests and marshlands. Between Ryläys and Kiviniemi, you’ll encounter significant elevation changes and varied natural scenery, including dense spruce forests and streams. In Ryläys, there is an observation tower from which you can admire breathtaking views stretching as far as the eye can see.

In Kiviniemi, you can enjoy a sauna and fill your water bottle with spring water. The Herajärvi Hiking Center is also a great place to rest and stay overnight in heated cabins or a lean-to. As you continue from Herajärvi, you’ll cross Sikosalmi via a ferry (see the route description for instructions).

You’ll experience the national park’s most breathtaking views after Pitkälammi at Jauholanvaara, where you can see the landscapes of both Lake Pielinen and Lake Herajärvi at the same time.

• Open fires are prohibited during forest or grass fire warnings and in strong winds.
• Be careful—never leave a fire unattended. The last person to leave should make sure the fire is completely out.
• In rainy and wet weather, boardwalks, rocks, and roots can be very slippery.
• Carry a first-aid kit with you.
• General emergency number: 112 (Also download the free “112 Suomi” app to your phone).
• Please note that there may be dead zones in cell phone coverage.
• Check the Finnish Meteorological Institute’s warnings!
• Plan and adjust your day trips according to your fitness level

Of the parking areas in Koli National Park, parking lots P1, P2, and P3 at Ylä-Kolintie 39 will be included in a paid parking pilot program starting September 1, 2026.

Prices and instructions.

You can reach the trailhead via a free cable car.

Parking is free for guests and conference attendees at Break Sokos Hotel Koli.

• The trail is marked with blue dots and signposts. For safety reasons, you should carry the Koli hiking and service map as well as a compass.
• Waterproof and sturdy shoes suitable for varied terrain, weather-appropriate hiking clothing, and warm clothes for breaks and as a change of clothes
• Overnight gear for camping in the wilderness or staying in a cabin (your own shelter, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad).

• Food supplies appropriate for the length of the hike, a camping stove, and cookware for preparing meals.

• Hygiene supplies, your own toilet paper for the restroom, and a trash bag.

• Sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, an insect-proof hat, and long-sleeved clothing for protection against insects.

• Compass, map, and headlamp. Matches and a knife for starting a fire.

• First-aid kit, local taxi number, and a backup power source.

• Choose your lodging and plan your water supply in advance, as water sources along the route are few and far between. If you drink natural spring water, boil it for a few minutes before drinking.
• Check the availability of rafts, the blue-green algae situation, and other factors to consider in advance on the Koli National Park website