Hiking Trail Hiking Trail |Patvinsuo

Patvinkierto Patvinsuo National Park

Endless mire as far as the eye can see, the charming scent of the mire and a vast variety of plants and animals. The colors change according to the seasons and the terrain is easy to walk.

Description

Shore, forest and mire. Boardwalks and vast mire areas opening like a savanna as well as the clear and sandy shore water area of Koitere. Patvinsuo is circled by the Patvinkierto, a circular route of about 25 kilometers that passes through mires and conifer trees all the way to the shore of Lake Koitere. The Tereti bird tower offers spectacular views of the vast mire area, making it a great place to study the landscape below. The Majalahti camping area is right on the shore of Koitere and the beach is truly lovely for a small refreshing dip. Smooth sand and a long shallow beach are also nice to wade in. The area includes a campfire site, toilets, a wood storage area, and plenty of tent sites right by the shore. The Patvinkierto route passes several sections along boardwalks but also includes various other terrains: pine heath, spruce forest, and lush grove. The mire is constantly changing with the seasons, so there is something new to see, colors and scents to appreciate all year round. On summer and autumn trips, you can also taste various berries.

Safety

  • Open fires are prohibited during forest or grass fire warnings and in strong winds.
  • Be careful - do not leave fire unattended. The last to leave, ensure the fire is out.
  • On rainy and wet weather, boardwalks, stones, and roots can be very slippery.
  • Carry first aid supplies with you.
  • General emergency number: 112 (Also download the free 112 Finland app on your phone).
  • Note that there may be dead zones in mobile phone coverage.
  • Check the Finnish Meteorological Institute warnings!
  • Plan and adapt daily trips according to your fitness

Location & Parking

Patvinsuo National Park is located east of the Joensuu – Lieksa road (road 73). The distance to Patvinsuo from Joensuu via Uimaharju is 90 km. The Suomun nature hut is 40 km from Uimaharju and 55 km from Lieksa.

Arrival instructions to Patvinsuo National Park.

Transport services for Lieksa hiking routes

There is no public transport to the destination.

Parking spots on the map

Directions

You can find the route instructions on the Patvinsuo National Park website

Tools and equipment

  • The route is marked in the terrain with orange-yellow color dots and signs. No map or compass is needed on the route.
  • Waterproof and sturdy shoes suitable for varying terrain, weather-appropriate hiking clothes, and warm clothing for breaks and extra layers
  • Overnight equipment for camping in the terrain or hut (own shelter, sleeping bag and pad).
  • Food supplies depending on the trip length, camping stove and dishes for cooking.
  • Hygiene items, own toilet paper for the toilet, garbage bag.
  • Sunglasses, hat and sunscreen, insect hat and long-sleeved clothing to protect against insects.
  • Compass, map and headlamp. For making fire, matches and a knife.
  • First aid kit, local taxi number, power bank.
  • Choose accommodations and plan water supply in advance, as water points on the route are sparse. If you use natural water for drinking, boil it for a few minutes before use.
  • Check the availability of cable ferries, blue-green algae situation and other advance considerations on the Patvinsuo National Park website.

Additional information

Easy - possible without preparation.
Starting point
Lahnalampi parking lot, Surkanpuro, or Kurkilahti
Destination
Lahnalampi parking lot, Surkanpuro, or Kurkilahti
Difficulty level
Easy
Length
25.0km
Estimated time
08:00h
Ascent meters
145m
Descent meters
140m
Highest point
189m
Lowest point
139m
Author tips:
Be sure to visit the Tereti bird tower. On an autumn trip, you can find cranberries as a snack right beside the boardwalks. There are also plenty of blueberries in the area.
Author:
Mari Mustonen
Updated: 19.03.2026