Herajärvi southern end hiking route 30 km

The trail offers a pleasant journey for a 2-3 day hiking trip. The trip can conveniently start from the Herajärvi hiking center, where you can also take drinking water with you. Heraniemi also has a sauna intended for hikers. The hiking route has break and swimming spots at suitable intervals and also opportunities for camping.

The trip is challenged by rocky paths and steep ascents and descents. A nice variation comes from crossing water bodies by cable ferry and wading rope. Instructions for using these can be found in the route description.

Along the way, you can explore old tar pits, charcoal kilns, and a kyanite mine. Natural old forests with streamside groves add a fine touch to your landscape experience and a lovely world of forest scents.

• Open fires are prohibited during forest or grass fire warnings and in strong winds.
• Be cautious - do not leave fire unattended. The last to leave should ensure the fire is out.
• On rainy and wet days, boardwalks, stones, and roots can be very slippery.
• Carry first aid supplies with you.
• Emergency number: 112 (also download the free 112 Finland app to your phone).
• Note that there may be mobile phone coverage gaps.
• Check the Meteorological Institute warnings!
• Plan and adjust day trips according to your fitness level.

When coming from Joensuu, turn right at Romppala onto Ahvenisentie and drive 9.5 km. Turn left onto Eteläpääntie and drive approx. 1 km to the marked parking area.

There is no public transport to the location

Parking locations on the map

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

• The route is marked in the terrain with blue dots and signs. It is advisable to carry Koli hiking and service maps as well as a compass for safety.
• Waterproof and sturdy shoes suitable for varied terrain, weather-appropriate hiking clothes, and warm clothing for breaks and spare layers.
• Overnight equipment for staying in the wilderness or cabins (own shelter, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad).
• Food supplies according to the length of the trip, stove, and utensils for cooking.
• Hygiene items, own toilet paper for the toilet, garbage bag.
• Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen, insect hat, and long-sleeved clothing for protection against insects.
• Compass, map, and headlamp. Matches and a knife for making fire.
• First aid kit, local taxi number, power bank.
• Choose accommodation spots and plan water supply in advance as water points along the route are sparse. If you use natural water for drinking, boil it for a few minutes before use.
• Check the possibility of using cable ferries, blue-green algae situation, and other matters in advance on the Koli National Park website.