Herajärvi hiking circuit at Koli - Northern end circuit 35 km

You can start the Herajärvi circuit from Koli at the Ukko Nature Center, where you can get good advice and maps for the hike. The route is demanding due to large elevation changes and varied terrain.

The highest peaks of the national park are right at the beginning of the route, and after the peaks, you can admire meadows managed by mowing with abundant butterfly and plant species. Along the route, you will see diverse pine forests and marsh areas. Between Ryläys and Kiviniemi, you encounter elevation changes and versatile nature with majestic spruce forests and streams. At Ryläys, there is a lookout tower from which you can admire breathtaking views as far as the eye can see.

In Kiviniemi, you can sauna and fill your water bottle with spring water. The Herajärvi hiking center is also a good place to rest and stay in heated huts or a lean-to shelter. When continuing from Herajärvi, you cross Sikosalmi by a cable ferry (instructions can be found in the route description).

The most spectacular views of the national park are experienced after Pitkälampi at Jauholanvaara, where you can see the landscapes of both Pielinen and Herajärvi at the same time.

• Open fire is prohibited during forest or grass fire warnings and in strong wind conditions.
• Be cautious - do not leave fire unattended. Last person to leave, ensure the fire is out.
• On rainy and wet weather, duckboards, stones, and roots can be very slippery.
• Carry first aid supplies.
• General emergency number: 112 (also download the free 112 Finland app on your phone).
• Note that there may be signal dead zones for mobile connections.
• Check the Finnish Meteorological Institute's warnings
• Plan and adjust day hikes according to your fitness.

You can drive to Koli by your own car or shared ride from Joensuu. Joensuu hosts the nearest airport to Koli, and the drive by your own or public transportation shared ride takes about an hour. Joensuu also has a train station.

You can travel to Koli by train-waterbus connection, shared taxi, or charter services. See options!

Parking spots on the map

You can find the route instructions on the Luontoon.fi website

• The route is marked in the terrain with blue spots and signs. For safety, it is advisable to carry Koli's hiking and service map along with a compass.
• Waterproof and sturdy shoes suitable for varied terrain, weather-appropriate hiking clothing, and warm clothing for breaks and as spare.
• Overnight gear for staying outdoors or in a hut (own shelter, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad).

• Food supplies according to the length of the trip, a camping stove and utensils for cooking.

• Hygiene items, your own toilet paper for the bathroom, and a trash bag.

• Sunglasses, cap, and sunscreen, insect net hat, and long-sleeved clothing to protect against insects.

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

• First aid kit, local taxi number, power bank.

• Choose accommodations and plan water supply in advance, as water intake points along the route are rare. If you use natural water for drinking, boil it for a few minutes before use.
• Check availability of cable ferries, blue-green algae situation, and other advance considerations on the Koli National Park website