Taitajan taival

The route mainly runs through the Petkeljärvi-Putkelanharju Natura area and continuously offers stunning views from the ridge down to the adjacent waters. There are four resting places with shelters along the route. At Linnalampi, the resting place is by the sandy beach on the shore of the Koitajoki River, and at Tetrijärvi, views open up to Saarilahti from the pier. At the Keltasilmä shelter, you can admire clear water on both sides.

The route runs through dry pine forest terrain, and although the path is mostly at most of moderate difficulty, the rather steep ascents and descents increase the challenges. The route is not maintained in winter, although part of it serves as a ski trail for the Tetrijärvi loop.

Taitajan taival is part of the larger, 90 km Pogosta circuit. A long hike can be made by continuing from Petkeljärvi National Park through the Möhkö ironworks village to Susitaipale and from there all the way to Patvinsuo National Park. For a shorter route, you can start from the Putkelanharju or Issonjärvi parking areas.

• Please note that there may be areas with poor mobile phone coverage.
• Emergency number: 112 (Also download the free 112 Finland app to your phone).
• Carry first aid supplies with you.
• The route includes some very demanding sections, such as steep climbs and descents, which require special attention and can be challenging with a heavy load.
• Be careful - do not leave fires unattended. The last person to leave, ensure the fire is out.
• Open fires are prohibited during forest or grass fire warnings and in strong wind.

Route northern starting point (Mekrijärventie 23, Ilomantsi). Route southern starting point (Petkeljärventie 61, Ilomantsi). You can also start the journey from the starting points along the way.

Route northern starting point (Mekrijärventie 23, Ilomantsi)
Route southern starting point (Petkeljärventie 61, Ilomantsi)

You can also start the journey from the starting points along the way.

The route is marked on the terrain with orange paint marks. The route is well signposted, but some signs may be missing in places, so a paper map, map on a smartphone, or a gpx file on a device is recommended for those traveling the route.

• Shoes suitable for rocky paths