Over 100 km paddling route from Nehvonniemi through Petkeljärvi to Koitajoki and Koitere

The proposed route launches into the water from Nehvonniemi lean-to. Additional distance accumulates if Mutalahti boat ramp is chosen as the starting point. There are suitable camping spots along the route at least every 15 kilometers and sometimes more frequently. Many rest spots have huts or lean-tos, fireplaces, and outdoor toilets. The route goes through very quiet areas, and the shores are rarely inhabited, so you will likely only encounter a few fishermen. Extensive swamp areas make landing and camping difficult, so it's best to plan rest stops in advance using a map.

The route begins on a pleasantly narrow river section, continues winding through sandy-beach nature reserves to somewhat wider water bodies. The pine-covered slopes of Petkeljärvi National Park's coniferous forests accompany the long distances almost to the Oinassalmi bridge, where the water widens eventually changing into Nuorajärvi. The widest lake section shortens as you pass through Pontus canal from Nuorajärvi to Kasinjärvi, after which you are already on the calm and somewhat broad Koitajoki river. 

There are several rapids on the route, but none is challenging enough to be classified by the canoe federation's rapid ratings – they are pleasant flow areas. The only special point requiring attention is the underwater step dam at Lylykoski. In spring, during high water, it may be possible to paddle over the step without problems. At other times it is recommended to land near the pier before the rapid and assess further according to your equipment and skill level. The craft can be carried easily on land past the dam or floated along the shipping lane. Note that the shipping lane current may be too strong, and the structures at the bottom can damage some equipment. A new shipping lane is expected to be completed in 2027.

Hundred-island Koitere

At the end of the route, the hundred-island Koitere offers a wilderness atmosphere, large open waters, and sandy beaches. Most of the islands in the middle and northern parts of Koitere are protected, but hikers can move freely on the islands under Everyman's right. At Multavieru in Lammassaari, there is a hut and lean-to with fireplaces and many other services. Camping and making fires are prohibited elsewhere on Lammassaari and Yppylä islands except designated areas. On these islands, it is recommended to land only at marked fire sites and avoid moving off paths during bird nesting season. Petronsaari and Larinsaari have lean-tos, and Maijanluhta has a wilderness hut.

Upon arriving at Koitere, monitor the wind forecast. On large open waters, waves can surprise inexperienced paddlers. Traveling as far as the northern shore leads you to the southern edge of Patvinsuo National Park. To the east, you can continue hiking through meandering swampy Syväysjoki all the way to Käenkoski.

At the start and end points, there is parking space for a few cars.

The route is not marked. Navigation requires a GPS device or a paper map.