Biking Trails In North Karelia
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Joensuu Trails
In Joensuu region there are over 200 km paths for biking and hiking. The path network consists of four different route entities – Kinttupolut Trails in Liperi, Kontionpolut Trails in Kontiolahti, Lykynlampi Trails in Joensuu and Harjupolut Trails in Lehmo, Kontiolahti. It is a unique path network both in Finland and in Europe.
All the trails are marked with different colors and have information signs along the routes. In total there are 16 different campfire sites, several service providers and rest stops, which will complete the bike trip.
Kontionpolut Trails
Kontionpolut Trails in Kontiolahti have four different circle routes which are suitable for mountain biking, running and walking. Two trails – Salpalinja Winter Trail and Stadium Winter Trail – are also open in wintertime. Trails are connected to Jaama Trail, which is 60 km long circle route and to Koli Path, which is 63 km long and leads to Koli National Park. Good starting points for Kontionpolut Trails are for instance the harbor of Kontiolahti and Kontiolahti Biathlon Stadium. There are several campfire sites, toilets and shower available in the region.
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Kinttupolut Trails and Pärnä Bike Park
Kinttupolut Trails in Liperi have in total 65 km paths both for bikers and hikers. Kinttupolut has seven circle routes with different lenghts from 4km to 16 km. There are multiple parking areas, campfire sites and toilets along the paths. Trails are also in connection with the path network of Joensuu Trails.
Pärnä Bike Park
Pärnä Bike Park in Liperi is a downhill biking area with four different trails both for professionals and beginners. The park is only 15 km away from the city center of Joensuu. There is free parking area, shower, toilet, drinking water and campfire sites.
New Saimaa by Cycle routes
North Saimaa is full of diverse cycling routes for gravel cyclists, cycle hikers, mountain bikers and downhill cyclists. The routes are located in the area of the three municipalities: Liperi, Heinävesi and Rääkkylä.
The Saimaa by Cycle route includes two longer cycle hiking routes and eight shorter gravel routes in the area of three municipalities. There is a lot of variety along the routes and you can explore beautiful rural landscapes, sparkling lakes, hidden gems and unique places to visit. The routes are also easily accessible by train and bus.
Koli routes and the Pielinen tour
In Koli you cycle through varied terrain in the lap of the national landscape. In addition to good cycling routes, there are also companies in the Koli area where you can rent a bike for the duration of your holiday.
For a longer trip, the Pielinen Tour is a 250 km long loop around Lake Pielinen, offering things to see in both the Koli national landscapes and idyllic Karelian villages. There are also several accommodation and dining options along the route.
Mountain biking tours in Lieksa
The Karhunpolku mountain bike trail leads from Patvinsuo National Park through the wilderness of the Ruunaa hiking area in Lieksa. This 140 km trail offers unique views of marshes and hills, and you'll ride over boardwalks and through coniferous forests. Numerous fire pits, free basic huts, and service points are also located along the trail. You'll also pass by World War II battlefields.
The Ruunaa hiking area offers excellent opportunities for both mountain bikers and hikers. The trail also passes by the Ruunaa rapids and through impressive Finnish forests. At only 26 km long, it's perfect for a day trip.
Off to the Karelianpolut trails!
The Karelianpolut mountain biking route challenges cyclists to adventures in Kitee, Tohmajärvi and Rääkkylä. In the Tohmajärvi area, you can choose your cycling terrain between the more demanding Pekan Trail (7.5 km) or the easier Piilovaara Trail (3 km) or Kirkkoniemi Trail (5 km). All routes are two-way, and they are also easy to connect to each other. Along the routes, you will encounter diverse terrain, such as wetlands, forests and plank bridges.
In the Kitee area, the trails can be accessed via the seven-kilometer Hutsi Trail, which starts at the Hutsi Sports Center. Another of the Kitee Trails is the Peltola Trail (8 km), which starts from the Kitee Health Center parking lot. The Peltola Trail is a popular five-kilometer winter trail during the winter season.
The Best Gravel Biking Routes
The best gravel cycling routes
Gravel cycling may still be a relatively new experience for many. It is a sport that involves cycling mainly on gravel and dirt roads. And we have plenty of them here in North Karelia! You can admire, for example, the areas around Joensuu conveniently from the back of a bike or the wild landscapes of Koli and Lieksa without the congested roads.
Gravel Events in North Karelia
Discover more Cycling and Outdoor Routes
