With an extensive network of trails that cover a variety of terrains and difficulty levels, Nuuksio National Park offers a unique experience for hikers, cyclists, horseback riders, and nature lovers alike. From short walks on easy trails to challenging hiking routes and thrilling cycling tours and horseback rides, there’s something to satisfy all adventurers. In this article, we will explore some of the fascinating routes and trails that traverse this mighty park, providing an overview of their features, starting points, and highlighted points of interest. Join us as we delve into the natural beauty of Nuuksio National Park and discover its exciting outdoor adventures.
Content
- 1 Punarinnankierros Trail
- 2 Haukankierros Trail
- 3 Korpinkierros Trail
- 4 Takala Trail
- 5 Soidinkierros Trail
- 6 Kaarniaispolku Nature Trail
- 7 Nahkiaispolku Nature Trail
- 8 Klassarinkierros Trail
- 9 Haukkalampi-Haltia Connecting Trail
- 10 Nuuksio National Park Trail
- 11 Veikkola-Salmi Connecting Route
- 12 2000 Trail
- 13 Biking Routes – Approx. 30 Kilometers
- 14 Horseback Riding Trails – Approx. 22 Kilometers
Punarinnankierros Trail
2 km Circular Trail
Estimated time: 1 hour, no winter maintenance.
The Punarinnankierros Trail, the easiest in Nuuksio, is perfect for beginners. Along the way, you will enjoy views of the beautiful dry forests of Nuuksio and small lakes, highlighting the spectacular Mustalampi Lake with its floating peat mats.
Starting Point
Address: Haukkalampi, Haukkalammentie 32, 02820 Espoo.
Haukkalampi Coordinates: Euref-Fin (~ WGS84) lat: 60° 18.8649′ lon: 24° 31.2936′ ETRS-TM35FIN N: 6689001 E: 363094
Hiking Services and Structures
- Haukkalampi Nature Information Hut at the start and end points.
- Water available at Guide Hut.
- Camping area.
- Fireplace.
- Cooking shelter at Mustalampi Lake.
Points of Interest
- The peat mats of Mustalampi Lake.
Route Description
- Route marking: red.
Haukankierros Trail
3.7 km Circular Trail
Estimated time: 2 hours, no winter maintenance. Difficulty: Hard due to elevation changes.
The Haukankierros Trail offers spectacular landscapes marked by the glacial era: valleys, gorges, and ancient forests. From the top, you can admire the beautiful landscapes of the Myllypuro Valley and enjoy excellent services for hikers along the trail, including the cooking shelter by Mustalampi Lake.
Starting Point Address
Haukkalampi, Haukkalammentie 32, 02820 Espoo.
Haukkalampi Coordinates
Euref-Fin (~ WGS84) lat: 60° 18.8649′ lon: 24° 31.2936′ ETRS-TM35FIN N: 6689001 E: 363094
Hiking Services and Structures
- Haukkalampi Nature Information Hut at the start and end points.
- Water available at Guide Hut.
- Camping area.
- Fireplace.
- Cooking shelter at Mustalampi Lake.
Points of Interest
- The landscape of Myllypuro Creek Valley.
- The peat mats of Mustalampi Lake.
Route Description
- Route marking: blue.
Note
In the middle of the trail, on the west side of Haukkalampi Lake, there are steel stairs about 30 meters long. A dog might walk alongside the stairs.
Korpinkierros Trail
6-7.2 km Circular Trail
Estimated time: 4 hours, no winter maintenance. Difficulty: Challenging.
The Korpinkierros Trail impresses even experienced hikers with its cliffs and varied natural surroundings. Explore the herb-rich forests and be enchanted by the ponds.
Starting Points
- Haukkalampi: Haukkalammentie 32, 02820 Espoo.
- Siikaniemi: Siikajärvenranta, Espoo.
Coordinates
- Haukkalampi: Euref-Fin (~ WGS84) latitude: 60° 18.8649′ longitude: 24° 31.2936′ ETRS-TM35FIN N: 6689001 E: 363094
- Siikaniemi: Euref-Fin (~ WGS84) latitude: 60° 17.3591′ longitude: 24° 30.8904′ ETRS-TM35FIN N: 6686221 E: 362617
Hiking Services and Structures
- Nature information huts at Haukkalampi and Siikaniemi.
- Water available at the guide hut.
- Camping area.
- Fireplace.
- Cooking shelter at Mustalampi Lake.
- Reservable camping site at Kolmoislampi Lake.
- Two fireplaces/camping sites and a shelter at Holma-Saarijärvi Lake.
Points of Interest
- The peat mats of Mustalampi Lake.
Route Description
- Route marking: yellow.
- The Korpinkierros Trail (7 km) will take you through pond-filled nature.
Takala Trail
1.5 km One-way Trail
Estimated time: 25 min (one way), no winter maintenance. Difficulty: Easy.
The Takala Trail takes visitors through wooded areas, offering an easy and pleasant walk. The fireplace at the trail’s midpoint is perfect for resting, warming up, and enjoying a picnic.
Starting Point
- Next to the main building of Kattila.
Coordinates
- Kattila: Euref-Fin (~ WGS84) latitude: 60° 19.6976′ longitude: 24° 29.6322′ ETRS-TM35FIN N: 6690603 E: 361623
Hiking Structures
- Shed-type shelter and fireplace at Takala.
- Fireplace at Kattila.
- The nearest water point is at Kattila.
Route Description
- Route marks: orange signs with black stripes.
- Following the Takala Trail (1.5 km), you will reach the Takala shelter from Kattila.
Soidinkierros Trail
4 km Circular Trail
Estimated time: 2 hours, no winter maintenance. Difficulty: Easy.
The Soidinkierros Trail mostly winds through various forests, offering an easy and pleasant walk. Revitalize yourself with the ancient forest dotted with rocky outcrops!
Starting Point
- Address: Siikaranta, Hotel Nuuksio, Naruportintie 68, 02860 Kirkkonummi.
Coordinates
- Siikaranta: Euref-Fin (~ WGS84) lat: 60° 16.7702′ lon: 24° 30.0815′ ETRS-TM35FIN N: 6685156 E: 361831
Hiking Services and Structures
- For hikers who love comfort, the hotel services at the starting point offer cozy accommodation and restaurant delights.
Route Description
- Trail marking: green.
- This flat trail offers views of Soidinsuo, the largest swamp area in Nuuksio.
Kaarniaispolku Nature Trail
2.7 km Circular Trail
Estimated time: 1 hour, no winter maintenance. Difficulty level: Easy.
The Kaarniaispolku Nature Trail, specially designed for schoolchildren, is also suitable for other hikers. Hike and learn about nature while enjoying the forests, marshes, and bare rocky areas! This varied trail even passes through an old landfill.
Starting Point
- Address: Kaarniaispolku parking lot at the end of Soidentaantie Road in the Veikkola industrial area.
Starting Point Coordinates
- Euref-Fin (~ WGS84) lat: 60° 16.2592′ lon: 24° 27.6114′ ETRS-TM35FIN N: 6684295 E: 359518
Route Description
- Trail marking: brown and white pinecone symbols.
- The nature trail is located in the southwestern corner of Nuuksio National Park.
Nahkiaispolku Nature Trail
- 2 km Circular Trail
- Estimated time: 40 min, no winter maintenance.
- Difficulty level: Quite challenging due to difficult terrain.
The Nahkiaispolku Trail introduces visitors to forest restoration. Restoration is a nature conservation method where various measures are taken in an area to allow its recovery to a natural state.
Starting Point
- Address: Haukkalampi, Haukkalammentie 32, 02820 Espoo.
Starting Point Coordinates
- Euref-Fin (~ WGS84) lat: 60° 18.8649′ lon: 24° 31.2936′ ETRS-TM35FIN N: 6689001 E: 363094
Route Description
- Trail marking: brown and white pinecone symbols.
Klassarinkierros Trail
- Type: Circular Trail
- Length: 3.9 km
- Estimated time: 2 hours
- Difficulty level: Quite challenging due to elevation differences.
Description
In the quieter western part of the park, you can relax in the embrace of the forest and lakes, breathing in the fresh air of the national park. Enjoy the impressive landscapes of the Klassarinkallio rock and stay by Saarilampi Lake, listening to the whispering spruces.
Starting Point
- Address: Valklampi parking area, Valklammentie 1, Vihti.
- Coordinates: Euref-Fin (~ WGS84) lat: 60° 18.7173′ lon: 24° 26.7633′ ETRS-TM35FIN N: 6688886 E: 358913
Hiking Structures
- Saarilampi camping area, fireplace, and dry toilet.
- Rental cabin Tikankolo (naturaviva.fi) and Hotel Polku (polkuhotel.com).
Points of Interest
- Saarilampi and the view from Klassarinkallio to the west.
Route Description
- Trail marking: violet.
Haukkalampi-Haltia Connecting Trail
- Type: Connecting Trail
- Length: 4.6 km (one way)
- Estimated time: 2 hours each way
- Difficulty level: Extremely challenging
Description
The trail connecting Haukkalampi and Haltia with its large elevation changes is a delight for the hiker seeking challenges. At Haltia, lunch and café services are available, so there’s no need to bring your own snacks. While taking a break, you can relax and enjoy Haltia’s periodically changing interesting exhibitions.
Starting Points
- Haukkalampi: Haukkalammentie 32, 02820 Espoo
- Haltia: Finnish Nature Center Haltia: Nuuksiontie 84, 02820 Espoo
- Haltia Coordinates: Euref-Fin (~ WGS84) lat: 60° 17.6269′ lon: 24° 33.4218′ ETRS-TM35FIN N: 6686630 E: 364967
- Haukkalampi Coordinates: Euref-Fin (~ WGS84) lat: 60° 18.8649′ lon: 24° 31.2936′ ETRS-TM35FIN N: 6689001 E: 363094
Route Description
- Trail marks: Orange signs with black stripes.
- The connecting trail between Haukkalampi and Haltia (4.6 km) starts at the main entrance of Haukkalampi. It contains challenging ascents and descents, with steps in the steepest places. Between Nuuksiontie Road and Nuuksionpää Road, there are about 30 meters of steel stairs on the path. A dog might walk alongside the stairs.
Connection
- This trail connects to the Päivättärenpolku Nature Trail in Haltia (1.4 km). The Red Feather Secret Nature Trail (0.2 km) is intended for children. Another circular trail starting around the corner from the center is Maahisenkierros (2 km). The Maahisenkierros Trail is accessible for strollers, pushchairs, and wheelchairs (with assistance). The nature trails near Haltia (haltia.com) are located on land owned by the city of Helsinki and the Solvalla Sports Institute.
Nuuksio National Park Trail
- Length: Approximately 14 kilometers
- Estimated time: Variable
- Difficulty level: Diverse, depending on the section
- Winter maintenance: No
Description
This route traverses the entire park from Siikaniemi, passing through Haukkalampi and Kattila or Högbacka, to the Salmi hiking area. It offers a complete experience of the natural diversity and picturesque landscapes of Nuuksio National Park.
Starting Points
- Siikaniemi: Kolmoislammenranta, 02860 Espoo
- Salmi Hiking Area Information Point: Salmentie 75, 03300 Otalampi
- Siikaniemi Coordinates: Euref-Fin (~ WGS84) lat: 60° 17.3591′ lon: 24° 30.8904′ ETRS-TM35FIN N: 6686221 E: 362617
- Salmi Hiking Area Information Point Coordinates: Euref-Fin (~ WGS84) lat: 60° 22.5374′ lon: 24° 30.3336′ ETRS-TM35FIN N: 6695847 E: 362468
Route Description
- Trail Marking: Orange marking of the Haukankierros connecting trail.
- The route provides a complete experience of the varied landscape of the National Park, from the lake shore to the dense forests.
- The orange marking of the Haukankierros connecting trail guides along the way, making navigation along the route easier.
Veikkola-Salmi Connecting Route
- Length: 20 km one way
- Estimated time: Variable
- Difficulty level: Challenging
- Winter maintenance: No
Description
The Veikkola-Salmi connecting route (20 km) will take you from Veikkola, passing through Siikajärvi and Haukkalampi, to the Salmi hiking area. This challenging route offers a complete experience of the pristine and varied nature of the region.
Starting Points
- Salmi Hiking Area: Coordinates: Euref-Fin (~ WGS84) lat: 60° 22.5374′ lon: 24° 30.3336′ ETRS-TM35FIN N: 6695847 E: 362468
- Veikkola, Kaarniaispolku Nature Trail parking area: Coordinates: Euref-Fin (~ WGS84) lat: 60° 16.2592′ lon: 24° 27.6114′ ETRS-TM35FIN N: 6684295 E: 359518
Hiking Services and Structures
- Services available along the route will depend on the specific choice of the route.
- It is recommended to carry all necessary supplies for the hike, including food, water, and emergency equipment.
Route Description
- Trail Marking: Orange signs with black stripes.
- The route will take you through varied landscapes, from dense forests to picturesque lakes.
- It is recommended to follow the orange signs with black stripes to facilitate navigation along the trail.
2000 Trail
- Length: 110 km
- Estimated time: Variable
- Difficulty level: Variable
- Winter maintenance: No
- Suitable for bicycles: Yes
Description
The 2000 Trail is a 110 km hiking and cycling route that stretches from Laakso, in Helsinki, to Nuuksio National Park. This trail offers a comprehensive experience of Finnish nature, traversing diverse landscapes and terrains.
Starting Point
- Address: Lääkärinkatu 8, 00250 Helsinki.
Route Description
- The trail is marked with blue-white ribbons on the trees, making it easy to follow.
- Suitable for cycling, providing an additional option for exploring the route.
- The trail follows a natural path through a winter landscape, offering scenic views and a direct connection to nature.
- It is recommended to carry adequate supplies for hiking or cycling, and to be prepared for various terrains and weather conditions.
Biking Routes – Approx. 30 Kilometers
- Trail Type: Accessible by car, small cart paths, and short trail sections.
- Difficulty: Suitable for regular bikes, with trail sections and hills.
- Winter maintenance: No
- Access to Nuuksio National Park: Cyclists can access Nuuksio National Park through circular and through-trails extending into surrounding recreational forests. Cycling is only allowed on designated trails.
Starting Points
- Kattila
- Coordinates: Latitude 60°19.6976′, Longitude 24°29.6322′
- Haltia
- Coordinates: Latitude 60°17.6269′, Longitude 24°33.4218′
- Haukkalampi
- Coordinates: Latitude 60°18.8649′, Longitude 24°31.2936′
- Valklampi
- Coordinates: Latitude 60°18.7173′, Longitude 24°26.7633′
- Hotel Nuuksio in Siikaranta
- Coordinates: Latitude 60°16.7702′, Longitude 24°30.0815′
Hiking Services and Structures:
- Cabin rentals at Oravankolo and Tikankolo.
- Reservable camping at Kolmoislampi Lake.
- Camping at Saarilampi Lake.
- Camping/cooking shelter at Mustalampi Lake.
Other Considerations
- Route number 2 of the National Bicycle Trail Network crosses the National Park from Siikajärvi through Haukkalampi to Salmi.
- Points of interest include the peat mats of Mustalampi Lake.
Horseback Riding Trails – Approx. 22 Kilometers
- Trail Type: Old cart paths, also used by hikers.
- Difficulty: Suitable for horseback riding, with designated trails.
- Winter maintenance: No
Details
- Description: Horseback riding in Nuuksio National Park is possible, mainly using old cart paths, which are also used by hikers. Horseback riding is allowed only on designated trails.
Starting Points
- Kattila
- Coordinates: Latitude 60°19.6976′, Longitude 24°29.6322′
- Valklampi Parking Area
- Coordinates: Latitude 60°18.7173′, Longitude 24°26.7633′
Additional Notes
- It is recommended to follow National Park regulations and use only designated trails for horseback riding.
- Horse-drawn carriages can also access these trails with a driver and passengers, while riders can enjoy the route on horseback behind the carriage.