Trail Running Trail Running |Koli

The village of Koli and its peaks, 17.5 km

Along a route with many ups and downs, you’ll take in many of Koli’s gems: the waves of Lake Pielinen, the charming village center, the summer pastures, the old Mattila farmstead, and Koli’s highest peaks.

Description

During the first two kilometers, you’ll pass the magnificent, historic Mattila farm, as well as the Ollila and Turula farms, where Finnish sheep and Finnish cattle graze on the old slash-and-burn fields, preserving the cultural landscape and delighting hikers.

After Turula, a steep climb toward Ukko-Koli lies ahead. If you’re looking for a break after the steep climb, you can catch your breath near the Break Sokos Hotel Koli and the Koli Nature Center Ukon and marvel at, for example, the Koli Sacrificial Fissure, known as Finland’s most famous fissure.

From the hotel and Ukon’s courtyard, you can head toward the peaks of Koli—which offer views of Finland’s most beloved national landscape—either via steep stairs or along a gentler, wider trail. Especially during the busiest summer season, there may be many other hikers near the peaks—so let’s coordinate our progress with others.

After Paha-Koli, the trail descends to Mäkränaho and then climbs very steeply again to the summit of Mäkrä. A steep descent awaits you, among other places, on the way to the Tarhapuro waterfall and Koli’s Rantatie trail. As soon as you reach the road, you can cool off and take a dip in Likolahti before tackling the next steep, one-kilometer climb.

Safety

  • Choose a route based on your fitness level, experience, and weather conditions. Take into account the route’s length, elevation changes, and difficulty.
  • Check the weather forecast before you set out. Be prepared for sudden changes in the weather and dress appropriately for the conditions.
  • Tell a friend or family member your planned route and estimated return time, especially if you’re out alone.
  • Adjust your running pace to the terrain. Slow down on difficult sections and exercise extra caution on steep ascents and descents.
  • Stay on marked trails and be mindful of other hikers. Give way to oncoming hikers when necessary.
  • In an emergency, call 112. When calling through the 112 Suomi app, your location information will be transmitted to the emergency center if your phone is able to determine your location.

Remember: In trail running, the most important thing isn’t speed, but staying safe and enjoying nature.

Location & Parking

From Highway 6 in Ahmovaara, turn onto Road 504 (Kolintie); after driving 9 kilometers on this road, you will reach the village of Koli. Turn right onto Ylä-Kolintie, and the church parking lot marked as the starting point of the route is the second one on the left (Ylä-Kolintie 4a). You can reach Koli by public transportation, either by bus (except during school holidays) or by train and ferry during the summer. Find out more at koli.fi. You can park for free at the Koli sports field parking lot (Ylä-Kolintie 10) or at the Metsähallitus parking lot along Rantatie (Rantatie 6). See Parking in Koli.

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. A free rail lift takes you to the trailhead.

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

Tools and equipment

  • Wear trail running shoes with good traction that are suitable for the terrain. Rocky areas, tree roots, and wet rocks can be slippery.
  • Bring enough water, energy snacks, and, if necessary, first-aid supplies.
  • Carry a fully charged phone and make sure you can locate yourself if necessary. Keep in mind that there may be dead zones in the cell phone network.

Additional information

Moderately difficult - good fitness is required.
Starting point
The starting point, located next to the Koli Church parking lot, is centrally located next to the Koli village center, which combines old and new buildings and offers shopping, dining, and café services.
Destination
The same as the starting point.
Difficulty level
Medium
Length
17.6km
Estimated time
03:20h
Ascent meters
696m
Descent meters
696m
Highest point
327m
Lowest point
95m
Author tips:
The last five kilometers are mostly downhill. You’ll pass one of Finland’s oldest ski slopes, Koli Harbor—which offers café and restaurant services during the summer and also has a swimming area— and you’ll ski the final 1.5 kilometers along the ski trail back to the starting point.
Author:
Elina Aittamaa, Kolin Matkailu Oy
Updated: 27.10.2026