South Karelia Hiking Trails

Haikola Nature Trail is about 0.8 km of easy walking in Haikola village in northern Taipalsaari, South Karelia, beside the Karvajala wetland where Karvajalanjoki flows toward Lake Pien-Saimaa. For up-to-date access, services, and how this stop fits Taipalsaari’s wider hiking network, start with Visit Taipalsaari(1). The City of Taipalsaari also points visitors to Visit Taipalsaari and Etelä-Karjalan virkistysaluesäätiö for route descriptions and regional outdoor information(2). On the boardwalks and path you can explore shoreline nature, hunting culture, and wildlife and habitat management along the river and wetland. Visit Taipalsaari describes the route as partly accessible and notes a small boat dock along the way(1). About 0.77 km from the start you reach Haikolan laavu, where you can pause at the lean-to and campfire area in a compact day-trip setting. The Karvajala wetland has been developed over time with local volunteers and partners. Pien-Saimaa community reporting describes the first major Karvajalanjoki wetland project in 2001–2002, when the wetland earthworks were built together with Haikolan laavu and the boardwalks leading toward it—work tied to Karvajalanjoki ry’s long-running stewardship of the stream and marsh(3). Taipalsaari is a lake-rich municipality in the Saimaa archipelago; this short trail is a practical introduction to Pien-Saimaa shoreline habitats without a long hike.

Pärsäniemi nature trail is about 1.4 km of easy walking on a forested peninsula on Lake Kivijärvi in Luumäki, South Karelia. For current services, distances to Taavetti and Jurvala, and what is maintained at the site, start with the City of Luumäki hiking routes page(1). The municipality describes Pärsäniemi as a nature reserve shore destination: an accessible path of about 500 m runs from the Tyynilahti parking area (by the carpet-washing point) to Pärsäniemen laavu, and a separate forest path circles the peninsula for roughly 1.5 km in total; facilities include a lean-to, campfire place, woodshed, and toilet(1). The Väliväylän melontareitti kayaking route passes right beside the peninsula, so paddlers can land at the lean-to as well(1). About 0.4 km along the route you reach Pärsäniemen laavu on the Kivijärvi shore—a natural lunch stop with a campfire ring and views across the water. Luontopolkumies describes the approach through older spruce forest as wide and fully accessible, with a short duckboard stretch where the surface can be slippery when wet(2). Beyond the lean-to the forest loop follows the peninsula with modest ups and downs; waymarking is clear to the shelter, while the loop relies more on shoreline cues(2). Birdwatchers often scan the bays for waterfowl(1). Näitä polkuja tallaan captures the sandy beach by the lean-to and the long pier and boathouse scenery back at Tyynilahti after a short walk(3). Nearby you can also join longer regional routes: Väliväylän reitti, Etelä-Karjalan osuus follows the paddling corridor past the point; Jäälatu Jurvala–Perälä winter ski track and Itsenäisyydentie biking route pass close enough for a combined day out.

Ruokolahti is in South Karelia. For printable maps, how the Lääväkorpi–Syväjärvi loop and Mustakulkku loop fit together, and how this network links to the Ruokolahti–Rautjärvi E10 leg, start with Visit Ruokolahti(1). Metsähallitus lists the route on Luontoon.fi(2) alongside other outdoor destinations in the municipality. City of Ruokolahti(3) summarises the wider outdoor offer: from short nature paths to very long hikes, with winter ski tracks and beaches as well. The trail is about 43.3 km as one continuous hiking route in this database. It is not a loop. Official material describes Ruokolahti’s own hiking network as two main loops that you can join into roughly a 40 km circuit, plus the Ruokolahti–Rautjärvi connection that belongs to the European E10 long-distance trail system(1). Terrain varies from ridges and forest tracks to lake shores—typical South Karelia harju and water scenery. The route follows a leave-no-trace approach on the ground: pack out what you bring, as bins are not provided along many forest sections(1). From the northern end of the line you pass Kirkonkylän koulun lähiliikuntapaikka Ruokolahti and soon reach the same trail hub as Kyläniemen kierros, Rasilan valaistu kuntorata, and the short E10 Imatra–Ruokolahti walking link. About 10 km into the route, Myllykosken laavu - Myllylampi sits by the Myllykoski rapids between Vasari and Syväjärvi—one of the most talked-about rest spots on the Lääväkorpi–Syväjärvi loop, with a lean-to, campfire places, and dry toilets in line with how independent route guides describe the circuit. Further on, the line runs through Ruokolahti’s central sports area: Toripuiston ulkoliikunta-alue, Ruokolahden ulkokuntoilupaikka, and Ruokolahden keskusurheilukenttä cluster together near Metsolantie—handy for orientation, water, and services before you head back into quieter forest. Near the southern end of this mapped line, Haaroinsalmen laavu sits on the Kaituri shore in the same landscape as Rajojen reitti Ruokolahti (E10), a natural break before longer E10 stages toward Rautjärvi. Where geometries meet, you can branch onto Rajojen reitti Ruokolahti (E10), Rautaesirippureitti Etelä-Karjala, or Ruokolahden melontareitti for paddling on Saimaa. Retkipaikka(4) has described other Ruokolahti paths in depth—for example the sign-rich Hukkavuori nature trail—illustrating how varied the municipality’s trail culture is beyond this backbone network.

The Ukonmäki nature trail is about 1 km as a loop through shoreline forest beside Lake Saimaa in Joutseno, which is part of Lappeenranta in South Karelia. It is an easy, mostly dry forest path with little elevation change. For municipal listings of nature trails and the wider forest recreation network, start with the City of Lappeenranta recreation areas and nature trails hub(1). The loop’s strength is varied greenery along the shore: the route passes about seventeen information boards on local plants, place names, and history. Boards explain, for example, that Likosenlahti is named after flax soaking, and that Pöyhiä sawmill operated in the area in the 1920s–1930s with its chimney still noted across the water(2). There are lake views in a few spots, a changing cubicle if a swim in Saimaa appeals, and a rest area at the eastern tip of Ukonniemi with a welcome sign and a small map showing the board locations(2). A detailed walk report on Retkipaikka found the boards plentiful and engaging and spent well under half an hour on foot without a long break—easy to combine with a harbour stop(2). In winter the maintained ski track Muukonsaaren latu runs in the same Joutseno shoreline area toward Muukonsaari; skiers reach facilities such as Muukonsaaren retkikeskus, Muukonsaaren grillikatos, and Muukonsaaren nuotiopaikka farther along that line. Boats to Muukonsaari are discussed from the Joutseno harbour address Poijutie 4 in regional geopark material(3). The island’s own nature trail and rocky shores are a separate walk, reached by water(3).

Lammassaari nature trail is about 3.8 km on Lammassaari, a ridge island in Lake Saimaa within Imatra’s Ukonniemi recreation area in South Karelia. Imatran kaupunki maintains the official web page for this trail with the brochure, QR-linked nature posts, and season tips(1). GoSaimaa situates the walk in the wider Saimaa holiday region and repeats practical basics such as the two rest spots (kota and laavu), the 31 numbered nature posts, and that camping or overnight stays are not allowed on the island(2). The island is part of the Saimaa UNESCO Global Geopark; Saimaa Geopark describes the delta landform, ancient shorelines, kettles including the prominent kettle near the western shore, veined gneiss boulders toward the north, and Stone Age shore sites from a higher Lake Saimaa phase—background that makes the signage and sea-facing benches easier to appreciate(3). Along the line you soon reach Lammassaaren laavu, then—after roughly a kilometre along beaches and bays—Ukonlinnan uimaranta, Ukonlinnan beach volleyball courts, and Ukonlinna cluster on Ukonlinna point, good for combining a swim or a pause with the hike. Farther along, about midway in distance, Lammassaaren kota sits on the western shore with a nearby kettle and lagoon-style inlet; this is the main sheltered stop named in the municipal text. The return leg uses higher ground inside the island; Imatran kaupunki notes steeper slopes there and recommends sturdy footwear even though the shore sections to nature post 18 are easy underfoot(1). You can also cut the walk short from post 18 toward the small-craft harbour and continue toward Imatra Spa if you prefer a flatter exit toward services(1)(2). In summer the trail network around Ukonniemi adds options without leaving the area: Lammassaaren rantapolku follows the shore as a walking line, Esteetön polku Lammassaaren laavulle is a very short barrier-free link toward the laavu, and Ukonniemen kevyenliikenteen raitti connects toward fitness stairs and an outdoor gym for cyclists or walkers linking facilities. Winter visitors often pair the island with nearby ski tracks that use the same laavu corner as a junction. Luontopolkumies walked the island clockwise in dry forest and shore heath, clocking about an hour and ten minutes for a hair over four kilometres on the watch, and highlights Saimaa views, several bench–fireplace combinations beside the water, suppa landforms, and numerous flycatchers along the May canopy—useful colour if you like a field-tested pace and marking hints (white rings, yellow–green bands, occasional orange stakes)(4).

Mikonsaari Nature Trail is a short forest and shore walk on Mikonsaari in Lappeenranta, South Karelia, on the Pien-Saimaa island maze west of the city. The trail is about 1.7 km end to end; visitor pages often round the same circuit to about 2 km and split it into two named sections, Lehtipolku and Havulenkki(1)(2). For the fullest trail description—markings, rest spots, and seasonal tips—start with Visit Lappeenranta’s Mikonsaari Nature Trail page(1). GoSaimaa’s Mikonsaari article covers the same basics for Lake Saimaa trip planning(2). Lemin Kirjava’s autumn walk adds ground-level detail on side paths, the spring, and the laavu area(3). From the parking area the route dives into mixed forest: older spruce and pine giving way to damp deciduous pockets, with interpretation on plants such as February daphne where posted(1). A lichen-covered shore cliff looks west over Pien-Saimaa; lower down, fireplaces and a Green Leaf–era laavu with a woodshed, benches, an outdoor dry toilet, and a large wooden dining group offer a proper break(1). You can walk the trail in either direction on red paint blazes and signs; one counter-clockwise reading follows a forest road first toward Niemisenselkä shore, then climbs back through mixed woods toward Mikonsaarentie(1)(2). Wet weather calls for boots, and the trail is family-friendly but not barrier-free(1)(2). The island is a popular paddling day-trip setting—kayak circuits such as Mikonsaaren kierros and Hirvisaaren kierros pass the Mikonsaari- veneenlaskupaikka boat launch on Pien-Saimaa, about 0.65 km along this footpath, and the wider Retkisatamien reitti network links harbours around the city. In winter, Lappeenrannan jääladut ski tracks run through the same waterside network; check current ice and grooming information separately from this summer walking trail. The City of Lappeenranta has also offered free rowing-boat hops across Pappilansalmi to link shoreline routes—see Visit Lappeenranta for booking rules if you plan to combine with Pappilanniemi or Taipalsaari cycling(1).

For up-to-date information on municipal trails, lit exercise paths, and winter routes around Joutseno, start with the City of Lappeenranta’s kuntopolut and hiking pages, which also note the winter trail network from Joutseno sports centre and the multifunction kota in the same area(1). Visit Lappeenranta’s hiking guide points to downloadable regional walking-trail PDFs(2). The South Karelia Hiking site adds ideas for trips across the rest of the province(3). The Joutseno–Tujula retkeilyreitti is about 5.2 km on our map as a point-to-point hiking line in the Joutseno district of Lappeenranta, South Karelia. It begins at the Himanmäki wilderness hut and heads toward the Tujula village area along forest paths typical of the Saimaa shoreline countryside. The stretch lines up with the same recreation network as the long Saimaa Canal cycling route toward Nuijamaa, the Ravattila ski-trail network, and the Yhdysladut Ahvenlammelle connection—useful if you are combining a short walk with cycling or skiing days in eastern South Karelia. Lappeenranta is the city that now includes Joutseno. Etelä-Karjala (South Karelia) is known for Lake Saimaa scenery, mixed forest, and many local trails described on the pages above.

The trail is about 0.9 km in Parikkala, South Karelia, crossing Metsähallitus-managed Siikalahti, an overgrown bay of Lake Simpele that ranks among Finland’s richest inland bird wetlands and carries international Natura protection. For current rules, services, and seasonal advice, start from the Siikalahti Nature Reserve hiking pages on Luontoon.fi(1). GoSaimaa(4) sketches why the place draws naturalists: migrating waterfowl in spring and autumn, dense dawn and dusk birdsong in May and June, and interpretive boards with easy paths and boardwalks toward viewing structures. Begin from the Kasinniemi end at Siikalahti pysäköintialue. A dry toilet is available near the parking area; Siikalahti luontotupa sits a few hundred metres along with nature displays, and Siikalahden nuotiokatos and Kasinniemi keittokatos offer sheltered spots for a snack. Kasinniemen lintutorni and Kasinniemi luontotorni rise shortly afterward for views over reeds and pools, while Kasinniemi kaivo sits beside the path for water. Kasinniemi is a designated tent area—check the latest camping rules on Luontoon.fi(1) before pitching. About three quarters of a kilometre along, the dam-road cluster adds another angle: Patotie pysäköintialue, Siikalahden piilokoju, Patotie inva luontotorni, Siikalahti patotien lintulava, and the Ripekesaaren lintutorni, Ripekesaari luontotorni, and Siikalahti lintutorni group give several heights and hides toward open water and islets. Allow time to linger—Via Karelia(3) notes that on migration days a single watch can yield a long species list. Retkipaikka(2) describes an overnight visit from the photographer’s perspective: dusk chorus from marsh warblers, thrushes, and bitterns; boardwalks onto the forested islet and its tower; and Siikalahti luontotuva open round the clock from April through October for self-guided background on the reserve. The account is worth reading for timing tips and the feel of midsummer nights on the bay. The path ties into the wider Parikkala ”bird country” network: Siikalahden lintupolku (Siikalahti Bird Trail) shares the same birding facilities on the ground, Lintuinmaan pyöräilyreitti links longer cycling loops in the region, and Siikalahden retkilatu adds winter ski trail access when snow allows—confirm grooming on official channels.

Kärnäkoski fortress trail is about 1.3 km of walking path on the narrow isthmus between Lake Kuolimo and Lake Saimaa in Savitaipale, South Karelia. The line mainly serves people visiting the Kärnäkoski bastion fortress and the Saimaa Geopark storyboards at the main parking area. For opening hours–style visitor notes, services at the shore, and what is available at the ruins, the City of Savitaipale’s Kärnäkoski page on Savitaipale.fi is the practical first stop(1). Saimaa Geopark describes the walking connection from Partakoskentie toward the Vuorilinnoitus (hill fort), the Geopark information board by the carpark, and seasonal rules when sheep graze the earthworks in summer(2). About 0,6 km into the walk you reach Lotjasatama - veneenlaskupaikka, where sunken traditional barges are sometimes visible in the clear water, and Vuorilinnoituksen laavu sits a few steps away for a break with lake views—read more about the laavu on our Vuorilinnoituksen laavu page. The trail lies on the same corridor as several longer outdoor lines: cyclists on Länsi-Saimaan linnoituskierros and Savitaipaleen kierros pass this point, paddlers following Kuolimon kierros can land at the boat ramp, and the short Kärnäkoski polku vuorilinnoitukselle shares the same laavu and landing if you want a slightly different hiking option on the same shore. The stone ruins are a nationally listed built cultural environment linked to the late-18th-century fortification chain aimed at protecting Saint Petersburg; General Alexander Suvorov’s name is tied to the project in local material(1)(2). Yle News has followed wall repairs led by Metsähallitus, documenting why archaeologists first investigated clay-and-birch-bark waterproofing under centuries of turf(3). Allow roughly 45–60 minutes if you read the boards, visit the laavu, and photograph the ramparts.

Ice Age Traces – Stone Age Human is about 11.5 km of hiking around Lake Kuolimo in Savitaipale, South Karelia, through esker forests, lake shores, and suppa-and-kame terrain left by the ice age. For current route descriptions, services, and how this trail connects to the wider cycling network, start with the City of Savitaipale’s Jääkauden jäljet page(1). Saimaa Geopark presents the Lepänkanto esker area’s geology and reminds that you must not drive to Rovastinoja via Pyhä-Paulantie—access is only from the marked recreation routes(2). Retkipaikka’s Luontopolkumies walked the full route in summer 2023 and describes red field markings, long gravel connectors, boardwalk sections, and the prehistoric feel of the Rovastinoja stop—worth reading for pacing and terrain detail(3). GoSaimaa.com also summarises the circuit for regional visitors(4). The route is a themed nature trail: 18 information boards explain geomorphology, Stone Age traces, and Savitaipale’s emblem species. Part of the line crosses the Lepänkanto esker landscape (Saimaa Geopark). Along the way you pass forest paths and forest roads, climb short steep esker slopes, and follow Kuolimo’s shoreline—including sandy bays and rocky stretches—with a small table-and-bench viewpoint above Kammalahti toward the lake. About 4.6 km into the route you reach Rovastinojan kammi: the municipality has built a replica Stone Age dwelling at the rest area (not a strict archaeological reconstruction, but intended to feel authentic), with campfire opportunities and information on fishing and the prehistoric settlement context. Nearer the finish, Lepänkannon Uimaranta offers a long sand beach on Myllylammentie 300, and the Lepänkanto recreation area managed by Etelä-Karjalan virkistysaluesäätiö ties together the beach, fire rings, and Geopark signage at the parking end of the hike. The same landscape hosts the separate Savitaipale MTB route (about 28 km) from Olkkola toward Rovastinoja, and the Kuolimon kierros paddling route visits overlapping shores by water if you also explore the lake by kayak. On foot, expect moderate effort: plenty of gravel road, some steeper esker climbs, and roughly three to four hours including breaks for an average walker.

Monnonlahden polku is a very short hiking trail in Lemi, South Karelia, on the shore of Pien-Saimaa. It is a point-to-point walk to the Monnonlahti rest area, where the trail network meets the long Väliväylä paddling corridor. For current maps and service descriptions, start with the Monnonlahden polku trail page on Luontoon.fi(1). The walk is only a few hundred metres through forest before you reach Monnonlahti: a sheltered, shallow bay with a campfire shelter and a pier looking out over Pien-Saimaa. Näitä polkuja tallaan describes orange paint marks on trees along the path, a short forest section, then a drop to the shore where the shelter appears first and steps lead down to the pier(2). The same visit notes that the site was new in 2014 and works equally well for paddlers beaching from Väliväylä and for walkers arriving by car(2). Retkellä Etelä-Karjalassa presents Väliväylä as a major sheltered lake-and-river paddling route through South Karelia, with Lemi as one of the natural stopover areas along the way(3). Monnonlahti sits on that water route, and on our map the kayaking route Väliväylän reitti, Etelä-Karjalan osuus includes this same Monnonlahti stop. Lemi lies in Etelä-Karjala. The outing is easy going and short; combine it with a break at the shelter or pier if you want a longer stop rather than a longer walk.

The Mellonlahti nature trail is a short, easy-to-reach riverside walk in Imatra below Imatrankoski, a few minutes from the city centre. The City of Imatra publishes the route description, downloadable brochure, checkpoint list, and notes on accessibility(1). GoSaimaa summarises the same corridor for visitors: the path starts from Valtionhotelli Park and Inkerinaukio near the Imatrankoski bridge and follows the old Vuoksi river landscape downstream toward Mellonlahti bay, which today sits behind an embankment and forms its own quieter water and vegetation community(2). The trail is about 2.7 km. Official materials round the distance to about 3 km and describe 22 numbered checkpoints with a printed guide on local plants, birds, butterflies, Vuoksi fish, and cultural history(1)(2). An optional side branch climbs Mellonmäki for a higher view over the rapids and toward the Russian border town of Svetogorsk on clear days(1). The overall shape is often described as an upside-down Y: one arm follows the embankment and Mellonlahti shores; another climbs toward Mellonmäki recreation ground(3). Along the first minutes you are beside Imatrankoski and the state hotel quarter. Imatran valtionhotellin kylpylä and Imatran valtionhotellin tenniskenttä sit right next to the same park and path network many walkers use before or after a stroll. Farther toward Mellonmäki the route passes the ski-jump hills Mellonmäen hyppyrimäki K38 and Mellonmäen hyppyrimäki K53 and Mellonmäen frisbeegolfrata, so the trail doubles as a pleasant link between the rapids viewpoint and the hill’s sports facilities. The same area connects logically to Vuoksen luonto- ja kulttuurilenkki along the wider Vuoksi corridor, to Kruununpuiston ja Ivoniemen luontopolut for a shorter nature loop near the shore, and to paved exercise loops such as Mellonmäen kuntorata and Mellonmäen kuntoradan latu if you want to mix walking with skiing or running. Retkipaikka’s Luontopolkumies article adds practical colour: views from the imperial observation deck toward the dam, a long embankment path with frequent benches, a small wooden bridge with a simple campfire spot, and a steeper climb up Mellonmäki if you take a direct shortcut to the top(3). The piece also notes that marking is workable but not always obvious everywhere, so carrying the city PDF or Outdoor Active trace on your phone helps(3). For the latest brochure, map PDF, and any route changes, rely on the City of Imatra(1).

Start with the Haukkavuoren luontopolku trail page on Luontoon.fi(1) for Metsähallitus maps and route facts. The Municipality of Rautjärvi's Haukkavuori visitor page(2) explains driving directions, the carved boundary markers, and how the hill sits on the historic border between Rautjärvi and Ruokolahti. The trail is about 2.3 km as a loop on forested slopes around Haukkavuori. Published walk-throughs and regional listings often describe a longer outing of about 4–5 km when hikers include the climb from the parking area to the summit viewpoint and the full marked circuit—worth planning for if you want the full summit and loop experience(3)(4). Haukkavuori is the highest point in South Karelia at about 172 m above sea level, with roughly 80 m of relief above Lake Sarajärvi below(2)(4). From the clifftops you look out over lake-and-forest scenery typical of the Saimaa lake plateau. The hill has been a border landmark for centuries: the peace treaties of Nöteborg (1323), Teusina (1595), and Nystad (1721) all ran through this landscape, and a survey marker carved in 1722 is still visible on the rock(2). Haukkavuori is part of the Saimaa UNESCO Global Geopark and is listed as a Natura area; the Finnish Heritage Foundation is named as a governing body on regional tourism pages(4). The same area connects to longer hiking lines: the Simpele–Haukkavuori hiking trail approaches from Simpele, and the Rautjärvi E10 hiking trail (Rajojen reitti / E10) passes through—both share Haukkavuoren laavu as a resupply and rest stop. On Retkipaikka, Luontopolkumies describes sturdy boardwalks and steps on the steeps, orange marks where the path shares the wider Ruokolahti–Rautjärvi–Parikkala network, and blue marks on the nature-trail loop, with counterclockwise travel feeling easier on the loop(3). GoSaimaa recommends waterproof footwear in wet weather because the forest can be dense and the clifftops have no guard rails(4). For a quick aerial sense of the view, the GoSaimaa page links a short drone clip of Haukkavuori(4).

Risuniemi Nature Trail is about 2.5 km and loops through lakeshore deciduous forest on Lake Saimaa. The route sits in Imatra in South Karelia, a short detour from main roads toward the Saimaa shoreline. For board texts, length, and the Outdoor Active listing, the City of Imatra’s Risuniemi nature trail page is the best official starting point(1). Imatra’s nature trails use signposts and QR codes so you can open trail-specific guidance on a phone; the same system is outlined on the city’s nature routes overview(2). The path follows forest tracks and shore ledges around Risuniemi, with a pronounced dip to a sandy bay at Saunalahti where a fire ring sits in view of the water and older industrial rooftops—Nuottikari and Kaljaniemenselkä open across the lake. Luontopolkumies describes the nature trail as marked in red paint, with blue paint marks where the corridor meets the long-distance Imatra–Ruokolahti E10 walking route toward Ruokolahti and Rautjärvi; a kilometre post for that trail appears along the loop. Early summer brings strong bird activity in the groves and alder swamps; the same walk-through notes a steep, awkward descent to the beach and a short stretch of boulder shoreline (pallekivikko) before the loop climbs back through mixed forest and crosses a power line clearing where red and blue marks meet again near the parking area. If you continue onto the wider E10 corridor, the same regional line links places such as Ukonlinna, Malonsaaren nuotiopaikka, and Lempukan uimaranta farther along the walking network—useful context for turning a short nature loop into a longer day along Lake Saimaa.

Kissankierros is a medium-demand hiking circuit in Puntala, Ruokolahti, in South Karelia. The trail is about 6.7 km long. Metsähallitus publishes route information for Kissankierros on Luontoon.fi(1). Rajamailla, the South Karelia travel site, highlights duckboard sections, the shelter at Vaarasmäki, and the story of the cave at Haisevanlampi pond(3). For a step-by-step account of terrain, markings, and pacing, Mika Markkanen’s walkthrough on Retkipaikka is worth reading(2). The route follows forest paths and gravel roads through farmland and young pine and birch stands. Local volunteers help look after the trail. Wayfinding is strong: yellow paint and wooden “Kissan kierros” signs, plus kilometre posts along the way(2). Sources often describe the circuit as roughly seven kilometres; some round to about 7.5 km(2). Counter-clockwise is the suggested direction from the signed start near the parking area(2). Highlights include crossing Tervaoja stream, climbing gently onto Kissamäki, and descending toward Haisevanlampi, a small forest-bog pond with an information board. A short side path leads to a rock overhang cave by the pond; local tradition links the cave to quarrying firebrick and to use as shelter during hard times(2)(3). A spur toward Riihikivi boulder adds a little extra climb. Vaarasmäki holds a rest spot with a lean-to, table shelter, and firewood(2). Near Vesioro the route passes a spot where Edvin Laine’s Tuntematon sotilas was filmed in the 1950s, and it briefly shares a forest road with the blue-marked Ollin polku before returning across Tervaoja toward the parking area(2). In winter the same landscape is threaded by maintained ski tracks nearby, including Puntalan kylälatu, Immola -Huhtanen Ladut, and Lohelan latu, which pass close to or intersect this hiking line—check current ski conditions separately if you combine activities.

The Pappilanniemi Nature Trail is a 1.7 km loop on Pappilanniemi peninsula in Lappeenranta, South Karelia, on Lake Saimaa beside the Kaukas mill area. Lappeenranta lies in South Karelia. For the fullest practical picture—lighting, accessibility, the 28.8 ha conservation setting, spring birdlife, and the free Pappilansalmi rowing-boat link across to the eastern shore—start with Visit Lappeenranta’s Pappilanniemi pages(1). Saimaa Geopark explains the Ice Age silokalliot shorelines and glacial wear visible along the northwest shores(2). Luontopolkumies describes fourteen large nature interpretation boards along the wide surfaced loop, optional unmarked spurs toward the peninsula tips with views over Saimaa, and a mix of easy fitness-track walking with rockier short branches toward the far points(3). The loop uses the same maintained corridor as Pappilanniemen kuntopolku for much of the way; in winter the line doubles as Pappilanniemen latu, and the wider Lappeenrannan jääladut ski network passes through the same lakeside system—treat lighting and grooming as separate from this summer hiking line and check current city information for snow season(1). The reserve combines dry pine forest, herb-rich deciduous woods, and alder mires; visitor material notes on the order of 350 vascular plant species in the protected patch(1). Sheepback bedrock on the northwest shore illustrates glacial smoothing; liverleaf and other spring ground flora draw visitors in early season(1)(2). Longer paddling routes such as Väliväylän reitti, Etelä-Karjalan osuus pass offshore nearby if you combine a harbour day with this shore walk; Ruohosaaren kierros and other kayak lines link beaches and laavus around the city islands on separate trips.

E10 Border Trail (Rajojen reitti) is about 16.7 km on our map as one point-to-point section of the European E10 long-distance hiking route. It crosses Parikkala in South Karelia between the Pöröpeikon polku trail area in the south and the Oronmylly outdoor centre in the north. The line is remote forest walking on pine heaths and in deep spruce forest, with small clear ponds along the way. For printable north and south maps plus the route brochure, start from Visit Parikkala’s Rajojen reitti E10 page(1). The City of Parikkala hosts the same brochure PDF and describes the orange marking system used on its hiking network(2). The trail lies in Parikkala. Along the first kilometres you pass Pörölammen laavu ja varaussauna, where a reservable sauna sits beside the lean-to—useful if you began from Pöröpeikon polku. After about 3.8 km you reach Suur-Varpasen laavu in quiet woodland. Mid-route the forest is varied: Visit Parikkala notes stretches of dark spruce forest, open pine heath, and younger stands(1). Around 12 km from the start, Soininmäen kota offers a longer break; the same junction links to winter ski loops such as Latu Soininmäen lenkki. Near the northern end, Vironperän laavu sits close to the Oronmylly sports and course centre, where Kyynärpäänjoen polku, Aate-Pekan polku, and several ski circuits also meet—Oronmylly publishes its own overview of hiking and ski routes in the yard(3). The route follows a very old border alignment described by Visit Parikkala: the same line once reflected the Treaty of Teusina and Treaty of Nystad boundaries and today separates Parikkala from Punkaharju and the South Finland and East Finland sides of the regional map(1). Birdlife is a draw: forest species are abundant and Siberian jays sometimes approach camps(1). Allow most of a day for the full section; footing and signposting are aimed at experienced hikers used to unlit backcountry paths.

Rutola Village Trail is about 3.5 km of easy, themed walking through Rutola on the western side of Lappeenranta, where village roads and short forest sections open toward Lake Saimaa bays around Lapatonniemi. The Rutolan kyläpolku page on Luontoon.fi(1) is the trail’s national outdoor-services listing, and the City of Lappeenranta includes this walk among its popular near-town hiking and forestry recreation destinations(2). GoSaimaa summarizes how the themed boards and Salpa Line sights are laid out for visitors(3), and Näitä polkuja tallaan offers a long-form field walkthrough with photos of the sawmill ruins, shore views and bunker stops(4). The path is marked with blue posts and passes roughly six history-oriented information boards about the village, the lost sawmill settlement, and Finland’s Salpa Line fortifications, plus nature boards on plants, animals and fungi. Two Salpa bunkers can be explored from the outside or with a torch inside rough concrete passages; a rest spot in Salpa style lies near them. Camping next to the bunkers is prohibited. Sturdy footwear is advised, and a flashlight is useful inside the bunkers(3)(4). Along the mapped line, the route soon passes the Rutola ice rink area on Vanha Mikkelintie, then swings through woodland and former saw foundations before reaching lakefront views toward Sahalahti, Rovonlahti and Rutolanlahti on western Lake Saimaa, as described in local trip write-ups(4). In the last kilometres the trail approaches Myllylammi’s boat launch and finishes near Rutolan taukopaikka and Rutolan Melontalaituri, where the Väliväylän reitti, Etelä-Karjalan osuus paddling corridor meets the shore and the long Makumatka pyöräilyreitti bike route shares the same village corridor—handy if you combine walking with human-powered travel on water or quiet roads.

The Simpele–Haukkavuori hiking trail is about 13.9 km as one continuous route in Rautjärvi, South Karelia. It links the Simpele area with the Haukkavuori hill landscape on the South Karelia–South Savo border. For Metsähallitus route information and map context, see the Retkeilyreitti Simpele-Haukkavuori page on Luontoon.fi(1). City of Rautjärvi(2) describes Haukkavuori as the highest point in South Karelia, part of the Rajojen reitti (E10) long-distance trail, with a nature trail, laavu, and campfire place. GoSaimaa(3) notes the site sits in Saimaa UNESCO Global Geopark and summarises driving from Simpele and services at the Haukkavuori parking area. Retkipaikka(4) gives a detailed on-the-ground account of markings and terrain on Haukkavuoren luontopolku and the wider orange-marked hiking network in the same landscape. The route is not a loop. From the Simpele side the line crosses mixed forest and local recreation land, then reaches Haukkavuoren laavu roughly 1.5 km from the start of our geometry—an obvious stop for shelter, fire, and a break before or after climbing the Haukkavuori slopes. Haukkavuori itself rises steeply above Sarajärvi; the summit area is known for views, historical border markers from the Treaty of Nystad line, and connections to the shorter Haukkavuoren luontopolku and to Rautjärven retkeilyreitti E10 along the Rajojen reitti. Toward the far end of this route, Koantauksen uimapaika offers a swimming spot by the water for a summer cool-down after a long walk. Terrain around Haukkavuori is often steep and can be slippery when wet; sources recommend sturdy footwear and care on slopes. Orange paint marks tie into the broader Ruokolahti–Rautjärvi–Parikkala hiking network in places, while the dedicated nature-trail loop near the top uses its own colour coding. Expect quiet forest roads and paths, with more built-up edge sections closer to Simpele.

The Imatra Spa nature trail is about 4.6 km on Lake Saimaa in Imatra, South Karelia. It works well as a half-day, family-friendly nature walk with numbered learning posts. Imatra.fi publishes the official Kylpylän luontopolku page, downloadable PDF brochure, and practical field details(1). The walk begins from the Imatra Spa Resort grounds in Ukonniemi(2)—the resort highlights hiking routes that start at the spa door—and a 2016 shoreline walk-through on Näitä polkuja tallaan adds detail along the sandy bays(3). GoSaimaa lists Imatra Spa among Lake Saimaa holiday bases if you are planning a longer regional stay(4). From Imatra Spa (Imatran Kylpylä) and the sport venues on Purjekuja, the path heads northeast toward Malonsalmi and partly returns along the same line. About 2.3 km from the start you reach Lempukan uimaranta on Saimaa—useful for a swim break on warm days—before the line continues toward Malonsaari. Near the northern end, Malonsaaren nuotiopaikka offers a campfire pause before you head back; firewood rules follow local signs. Ukonlinna sits just off the western shore near the spa and Lammassaari—handy if you are combining this walk with shorter shore loops. Imatra maintains 31 numbered checkpoints about natural phenomena, plants, and wildlife; allow unhurried time at boards between posts. Trail character is forest and lakeshore with occasional rock underfoot—sturdy shoes are a good idea(1). The route is marked with signboards and white paint blazes(1). Spring and early summer are especially green and birdy; autumn is quieter with good colour(1). The city describes a shorter option by skipping from post 14 directly to post 24 for roughly 3 km(1); the full line on our map is about 4.6 km, so treat the shortcut as an optional branch when you want a lighter outing. Nearby on foot or by bike from the same headland area you can link to Kylpylän rantaraitti by the spa, the longer Lammassaaren luontopolku loop on Lammassaari, the regional hiking link Retkeilyreitti Hinkanranta-Imatran kylpylä (E10) Lpr-osuus, winter ski connectors, and the short Malonsaaren polku spur toward Malonsaari itself.

The Alajoki hiking trail is about 3.8 km of riverside walking in the Vainikkala–Rikkilä countryside near Lappeenranta, in South Karelia’s border lake district, following the small Alajoki stream through mixed forest. Myötävirtaan association built and maintains the signed section and publishes maps, photos and a printable brochure on its Vainikkala hiking page(1). The same site hosts a downloadable PDF trail sheet in Finnish and English for printing or offline use(4). GoSaimaa’s regional paddling overview ties the same river valley to a separate canoeing journey of roughly 19 km with five rapids best tackled in early summer when water levels are high, pointing paddlers toward the South Karelia outdoor database for detail(2). The City of Lappeenranta lists Vainikkala among its maintained fitness-trail areas and points hikers to per-site pages for the latest municipal outdoor upkeep contacts(3). Along the mapped walk you pass Kiekan taukopaikka after about 1.4 km—a riverside rest spot where a table-and-bench set was added in 2013—and Tuhkakankaan laavu farther along, both suited to campfire coffee or a sausage stop. Signage on the classic through-hike uses blue posts and paint blazes on trees, with extra pointers where optional paths branch off. If you are planning a longer outing than the signed trail alone, Myötävirtaan describes the wider Vainikkala–Melkkola corridor along Alajoki as three laavus, one rest area and a bird tower on Lake Kotijärvi in Simola, with an unmarked gap between Rikkilä and Simola where travel relies on everyman’s rights. Canoeists on Alajoen melontareitti use the same laavu stops for breaks; carrying around—not running—rapids in ordinary canoes is the documented safety approach(1)(2). Day hikers who only need the compact riverside loop get a clear snapshot of the stream, the lean-tos and the quiet border-area mood without committing to the full water route.

The Orrainpolku geological trail is a demanding day hike in Savitaipale, South Karelia, on the isthmus between Lake Kuolimo and the Saimaa waterway. The hiking route on our map is about 8.4 km as one continuous line; many published guides round a full circuit to roughly 9–10 km(1)(2). For geology, wayfinding, and the official trail framing, use the Orrainpolku geological trail page on Luontoon.fi(1). GoSaimaa’s regional overview describes the red paint marks, the climb to Luotolahdenvuori above Kuolimo, the two laavu rest points with dry toilets, and how the ridge fits the Saimaa UNESCO Global Geopark network(2). Retkipaikka’s Luontopolkumies article from 2021 adds practical pacing: allow roughly three to four hours if you stop for photos, mushrooms, and the long lakeshore sections(3). Along the first part of the route you pass smaller ponds such as Orrainlampi and Kuikkolampi; the climb to Luotolahdenvuori brings you roughly forty to forty-five metres above Kuolimo with open views across Luotolahdensalmi(3). Pale granitic outcrops on the ridge match the geopark framing summarised on GoSaimaa’s page(2). After the fell section the path drops back toward the shore at Luotolahdenkapian laavu, where Luotolahdenkapian Veneenlaskupaikka also gives paddlers access from Kuolimon kierros. Further along, pitkospuut cross wet ground before you reach Onkilammen laavu, which some sources note as reachable more directly from Partakoskentie for a shorter outing(2)(3). The same forest corridor is shared in places with Orrainpolun retkipyöräilyreitti; give mountain bikers space on narrow sections. Savitaipale sits in Etelä-Karjala. Kuolimo is the dominant lake in the views; if you combine hiking with paddling, Kuolimon kierros ties together landings around the lake system.

For how the Biotrail works, where the first information boards sit, and the project's overview videos, start with LUT University's Biotrail page(1). The City of Lappeenranta's fitness and hiking hub explains the wider outdoor network around the city, including lit trails and winter walking options elsewhere(2). Luontopolkumies (Retkipaikka) walked the route in Skinnarila and describes the lakeshore rest stop, marking colour, and practical pacing(3). Parkinmäki Nature Trail is a short biomimicry-themed walk of about 1.4 km in Skinnarila on the north side of Lappeenranta in South Karelia. LUT University developed the Biotrail as a campus-near project: boards along the path explain natural phenomena that have inspired or could inspire technical innovations, with linked videos for deeper context(1). The path leaves from Yliopistonkatu (formerly Skinnarilankatu) just past LUT and LAB, with the first board on the right side of the street(1). The walk threads mixed forest and Lake Saimaa shoreline on Parkinmäki, including a sandy beach that once served as a maintained swimming spot; the city withdrew regular beach maintenance in 2014, so treat it as a scenic break rather than a serviced city beach(3). Expect thinned pine and spruce, former shoreline features, and open views toward Lappeenranta across the water from the tip of the peninsula(3). Along the route you pass the Skinnarila campus sports cluster: near Lähiliikuntapaikka Lappeenranta, Skinnarilan padelkenttä, Skinnarilan ulkokuntosali, and III-vaiheen kuntosali (LUT), the trail sits in the same neighbourhood as everyday training facilities rather than deep backwoods. For a longer day on foot or skis, the route joins Rantaraitti, Lappeenranta for more lakeside walking on the city shoreline, and it meets Skinnarilan latu for winter tracks; Rantalatu Huhtiniemi-Sammonlahti-Skinnarila and Lappeenrannan jääladut add more ski options on the ice in season, while Ruohosaaren kierros is a separate kayaking circuit on Saimaa if you are planning water travel.

The trail is about 0.9 km as one walk between the Kasinniemi shore area and the Patotie end of Siikalahti. It is a short birdwatching path through Metsähallitus-managed Siikalahti Nature Reserve on the eastern bay of Lake Simpelejärvi. Parikkala lies in South Karelia. For reserve rules, seasonal tips, and the wider trail network, the Siikalahti Nature Reserve hiking and outdoor pages on Luontoon.fi are the best official starting point(1). Regional tourism on visitParikkala.fi highlights Siikalahti as the best-known stop in the Lintuinmaa birding area and points readers to the same reserve pages(2). From the Kasinniemi side you typically begin near Siikalahti pysäköintialue, with Kasinniemi käymälä P-alueella close by. A few hundred metres into the wetland fringe you reach Siikalahti luontotupa, Kasinniemi keittokatos, and Siikalahden nuotiokatos beside Kasinniemi—good places to read displays, sit out of the wind, and warm food at the fire shelter. Kasinniemi kaivo provides water nearby, and Kasinniemen lintutorni together with Kasinniemi luontotorni lift you above the reeds for open views. Toward the Patotie end, about 0.8 km along the walk, Patotie pysäköintialue gives an alternative road access; Patotie inva luontotorni and Siikalahti patotien lintulava are built for quieter watching at reedbed and open-water edges. Near the far end, Siikalahden piilokoju, Ripekesaari luontotorni, Siikalahti lintutorni, and Ripekesaaren lintutorni cluster where the bay opens—ideal for scanning migrants and marsh species. Dry toilets sit with the main parking rather than as separate named stops along the path. The habitat mosaic—reedbeds, wet meadows, groves, and shallow bays—supports a celebrated wetland bird community; spring and autumn migration and the summer night chorus are major draws(2)(3). In the same area you can continue on other marked lines when conditions allow: Siikalahti luontopolku follows a similar kilometre-scale nature loop on shared infrastructure, Siikalahden retkilatu extends the winter ski network past the same towers and shelters, and Lintuinmaan pyöräilyreitti ties Parikkala into a much longer regional cycling birding circuit for a full-day outing by bike(1).

Pöröpeikon polku is about 3.1 km as one walking line in Parikkala in South Karelia. It climbs rocky ridges, drops into dark spruce hollows, and passes Ice Age erratics—including a boulder poised on a cliff edge and another balanced on a tiny contact patch with the ground. Storms in 2010 left windthrow that is still visible where terrain makes forestry difficult. For printable maps and the route brochure, start from Visit Parikkala’s Pöröpeikon polku page(1). The City of Parikkala links the same brochure PDF from its hiking and ski trail hub and describes the orange marking used across the municipal trail network(2). The trail lies in Parikkala. About halfway, at roughly 1.4 km from the start, you reach Pörölammen laavu ja varaussauna beside little Pörölampi—a shaded lean-to with a fireplace and a reservable sauna run by Parikkalan latupiiat ja -pojat; arrange booking and key pickup before you hike(1). From this same shelter you can join the longer E10 hiking lines: Rajojen reitti E10 continues north toward Oronmylly, and Rautjärven retkeilyreitti E10 links toward Rautjärvi—both use this stop, so this short outing works well as a warm-up or finish for a longer day. Birdlife and mammals get plenty of mention in local copy: forest birds, game birds, owls, moose on the rocky hills, and occasional bear sign—bring binoculars and keep a sensible distance(1). Luontopolkumies walked the route counter-clockwise from Peruspohjantie parking, noted a stiff climb to Iso Pörönmäki with views toward Simpelejärvi, and describes a memorable Pöröpeikko figure and a small cave (“Pörön pesä”) near Sourumäki—worth watching for if you like named landmarks along the path(3). Via Karelia situates the trail in the wider Parikkala–Simpele 30 km hiking story and records that Pöröpeikon polku is Parikkala’s oldest signed nature trail, with a connector from Rautjärvi routes and parking by the lake at the start(4).

For current listings of local trails, lit routes, and seasonal maintenance in Joutseno and the wider city, start with the City of Lappeenranta’s exercise paths and hiking pages(1). Visit Lappeenranta’s hiking guide helps you place short walks in the wider Lake Saimaa and E10 context(2). The South Karelia Hiking site rounds out trip ideas elsewhere in the province(3). Kiukkaanlammen reitti is about 2.8 km as a hiking trail in Lappeenranta’s Joutseno area, South Karelia. It is not a loop. The path runs through forest and pond scenery toward Kiukkaanlammen laavu, which sits about 2.25 km from the start—natural pause point for a meal by the fire or a rest before returning or continuing. At the lean-to, the trail meets the Myllymäki–Katralampi circuit and the Joutseno centre–Myllymäki E10 corridor, so you can stitch this segment into longer day hikes toward Katralampi or Myllymäki. In winter, Kiukkaanlammen hiihtolatu follows the same shoreline as a groomed ski trail; check municipal pages for grooming and any detours(1). A Suomi.fi service listing for Kiukkaanlammen retkeilyreitti summarises the lean-to as a place for snacks or overnight use, open around the clock(4). Some municipal text refers to a longer Kiukkaanlampi recreation network in the same forest; the hiking segment on our map is about 2.8 km. Hito Hyvät Uutiset toured Lappeenranta’s lean-tos and calls Kiukkaanlammen laavu “Leijonalaavu”, noting esker and suppa terrain and quiet pond views in the Joutseno forests(5). Lappeenranta is the city that includes Joutseno. South Karelia is known for Lake Saimaa, mixed forest, and dense local trail networks.

The walk lies in Imatra in South Karelia, threading Finland’s oldest riverside nature reserve beside Imatrankoski and the Vuoksi. Kruununpuiston maisema- ja luontopolku(1) and Ivoniemen luontopolku(2) on the City of Imatra website give section lengths, markings, and updates. Luontoon.fi lists the combined entry for browsing and basic services(3). GoSaimaa summarises the wider park for visitors(4). Imatranet.fi’s Koskipuisto article adds on-the-ground colour on geology, seasonal nature, and practical tips such as footwear near wet or rooty spots(5). The trail is about 2.2 km end to end as one walk. Official descriptions split it into roughly 600 m along Kruununpuisto between the rapids and the power plant, with checkpoint boards along the path(1), and about 1.8 km around Ivoniemi with boards and direction markers; the city aims to refresh Ivoniemi’s route annually(2). Information boards and QR-based extras are part of the city’s wider nature-trail network(1)(2)(5). The rapids run free only during scheduled summer shows; the dry gorge of the ancient channel is still a strong sight and ties into Saimaa Geopark–style geology stories told on local material(5). From the riverbank you are in the middle of Imatra’s services: the historic spa and hotel quarter, summer theatre, and Finland’s largest hydro plant are part of the same riverside ensemble(4)(5). The same shoreline links easily to longer outdoor loops: Vuoksen luonto- ja kulttuurilenkki and Mellonlahden luontolenkki meet this network where paths converge near the rapids area. Sturdy shoes help on uneven or damp sections, especially on Ivoniemi and on any optional detours along older channel margins(2)(5).

Haukilahden reitti is about 5.6 km of hiking route in Lappeenranta, South Karelia, following the shoreline and forest edge around the Haukilahden inlet on Lake Saimaa. The City of Lappeenranta publishes individual pages for many of its maintained kuntopolut and hiking areas, and the Kuntopolut ja retkeily hub is the right place to check maintenance and any service notices that apply to city trails(1). Visit Lappeenranta’s hiker pages describe the wider Rantaraitti network, downloadable walking-trail PDFs for the Lappeenranta area, and links to the South Karelia hiking portal and route maps—useful background when you plan outings in the same lake landscape(2). The regional portal adds route ideas and practical guidance for moving in nature across South Karelia(3). This segment is a linear day hike rather than a loop. It briefly shares geometry with two long regional cycling routes, Lappeenranta-Imatra kaupungit rajalla -pyöräilyreitti and Kyläniemen kierros, so cyclists on those networks may cross the same short stretch; hikers here are simply enjoying Haukilahden’s woods and Saimaa views on foot.

Start with the Hukkavuoren polku trail page on Luontoon.fi(1) for Metsähallitus maps and up-to-date route facts. Visit Ruokolahti’s outdoor routes overview(2) places Hukkavuori in Ruokolahti’s northern part and highlights the area’s more unusual, family-friendly longer outings alongside other scenic routes. The trail is about 9.8 km end to end on our map. It runs through mixed forest, mire edges, and small rocky hills north of Ruokolahti, with open views from the Hukkavuori rock and several informal rest spots along the way. Retkipaikka’s Luontopolkumies walk-through(3) describes shorter options of a few kilometres up to the full roughly ten-kilometre outing, so you can match distance to your day. What makes this route famous is the sheer density of hand-made signs and red wooden route markers: trip reports count on the order of hundreds of markers, wayfinding posts, and playful notes along the path, together with occasional older nature-trail panels(3). The same sources describe a mire crossing early on, boardwalks and small bridges where needed, a side visit to forest pond Kaunislampi (with a photographer’s hide and small rafts—life jackets required if you use them), a quieter passage past Tornimäki where an osprey nest calls for slow and silent walking, and a steeper descent with railings and optional “Jacob’s stairs” back toward viewpoints on Hukkavuori(3). Footing can be narrow and damp in places, so sturdy, waterproof footwear pays off, and long trousers help in summer when vegetation brushes the path(3). At the trailhead, visitors have described a campfire place and a kota for heating food, plus space for cars off the farmyard—details vary by season, so check Luontoon.fi(1) before you go. For general municipal contacts about outdoor services, the Municipality of Ruokolahti’s outdoor and hiking page lists the wellbeing guide(4).

Ruokolahti sits in South Karelia, and this segment of the European E10 long-distance trail is about 48.5 km end to end as one hiking route. It is not a loop. For printable maps, how the local Ruokolahti hiking loops relate to the Ruokolahti–Rautjärvi E10 leg, and alternative starting points, start with Visit Ruokolahti(1). City of Ruokolahti(3) summarises the municipality’s wide trail network: from short nature paths to very long hikes, with most trails also suitable for walking, running, and mountain biking where local rules allow. From the trailhead area near Ruokolahden keskusurheilukenttä and Metsolantie, the first kilometres share the same recreation cluster as Toripuiston ulkoliikunta-alue, Ruokolahden ulkokuntoilupaikka, and Ruokolahden liikuntahalli—useful for orientation before the route crosses into quieter forest and shore landscapes. The line ties into the shorter Ruokolahden retkeilyreitit network and the walking link E10 Imatra-Ruokolahti yhteysreitti, and it runs alongside the start of Kyläniemen kierros where those geometries meet. After the built-up edge, lean-tos and campfire sites along the route give natural day stages: Lentamon laavu is roughly 24 km from the start, Kaakkolammen laavu - Ruokolahti around 31 km, and a cluster of Torsanpään kosteikon laavu, Torsanpään lintutorni, Torsanpään nuotiokatos, and Pohjalankilan uimapaikka sits near 37 km—good for birdwatching, a swim, and a longer break. Noussiijärven laavu follows toward the northern part of the segment, and Haaroinsalmen laavu lies near the end of this line. Where the trail passes Torsanpää, the short hiking loop Torsanpään kosteikkopolku shares the same shelter and tower sites if you want a focused wetland walk. Farther afield in the regional E10 system, Rautaesirippureitti Etelä-Karjala and Rautjärven retkeilyreitti E10 continue the long-distance story toward Rautjärvi and beyond. Terrain on the Borders Route is varied: ridges, lake shores, and forest tracks typical of South Karelia. Visit Parikkala(2) describes the wider E10 Borders Route as a true back-country trail following very old border lines through pine and spruce forest, with small clear ponds and strong birdlife—useful context for what this Ruokolahti leg feels like. Pack for changeable weather, carry water between service points, and check current forest-fire and local access rules before lighting campfires at lean-tos.

For current trail listings, lit routes, and seasonal maintenance around Joutseno and the wider city, the City of Lappeenranta’s exercise paths and hiking hub is the right place to start(1). Visit Lappeenranta’s hiking guide highlights that more demanding hiking tours can follow the European E10 long-distance trail across South Karelia, with downloadable regional walking PDFs for planning(2). The South Karelia Hiking site rounds out ideas for trips elsewhere in the province(3). The Joutseno centre–Myllymäki E10 segment is about 7.7 km as a point-to-point hiking route in Lappeenranta’s Joutseno district, South Karelia. It forms part of the same long-distance corridor that Visit Lappeenranta names when describing E10 in the region. The trail is not a loop: it links central Joutseno with the Myllymäki outdoor and winter-sports area to the east. Near the beginning, the route passes Joutsenon kolmen sukupolven puisto and the Kolmen sukupolven lähiliikunta-alue at Välitie 6—a multi-generational outdoor exercise cluster the City of Lappeenranta maintains in its parks inventory(1). Early on you also skirt the dense cluster of school and sports-centre facilities around Penttiläntie—basketball and ball fields, ice rinks, and similar venues—useful context if you are combining a walk with local services. About halfway along the distance you reach Kiukkaanlammen laavu. The national service entry for Kiukkaanlammen retkeilyreitti states a roughly 6 km recreation route and a lean-to for meals or overnight stays, open around the clock(4). Näitä polkuja tallaan describes forest and pond scenery around the lean-to on esker and suppa terrain—worth reading for impressions of the middle section(5). The route finishes at Myllymäki, where downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, and other winter services are concentrated—Myllymäen laskettelukeskus and Myllymäen hiihtokeskus sit in the same neighbourhood (Myllymäentie area). Myllymäki is one of South Karelia’s better-known local ski hills, with lit slopes and cross-country loops in winter; summer visitors still use the area as a clear landmark at the eastern end of this walk. Lappeenranta is the city that includes Joutseno. South Karelia is known for Lake Saimaa, mixed forest, and a dense network of local trails and bike corridors that connect to the same recreation fabric.

Kärnäkoski polku vuorilinnoitukselle is a short walking loop in Savitaipale, South Karelia, on the isthmus between Lake Kuolimo and Lake Saimaa. Metsähallitus manages Kärnäkoski fortress and publishes services and background for the area on Luontoon.fi(1). GoSaimaa’s introduction ties together the bastion by the rapids, the old mill and log-driving harbour, and picnic views from Vuorilinnoituksen laavu toward Saimaa(2). Saimaa Geopark highlights how glaciated boulders were reused in the earthworks, and points out the signed path that climbs toward the mountain redoubt above the old lotja harbour(3). The trail is about 1 km as one walking loop. Roughly halfway round you pass Lotjasatama - veneenlaskupaikka, where clear water still reveals timber structures from the historic log harbour, and you can rest at Vuorilinnoituksen laavu with a fireplace and lake views—Luontoon.fi also documents that laavu on the fortress destination pages(1). From here the line links cleanly to the longer Kärnäkosken linnoituksen polku circuit around the bastion, mill, and harbour if you want more context on foot. Cyclists often combine the wider road approach from Savitaipale with these history trails(4). Kuolimon kierros passes the same harbour corner from the water if you are paddling the big lake circuit, and Savitaipaleen kierros or Länsi-Saimaan linnoituskierros sweep past on bike if you are touring fortifications around Western Saimaa.

The Myllymäki–Katralampi circuit is about 15.9 km of hiking in Joutseno, Lappeenranta, in the South Karelia lake-and-forest countryside. The City of Lappeenranta maintains outdoor routes in this area; for the Kiukkaanlampi section specifically, the Kiukkaanlammen retkeilyreitti service page describes a roughly 6 km stretch with a laavu where you can eat or stay overnight, open around the clock and free to use(1). The city’s Kuntopolut ja retkeily hub lists Myllymäki among its illuminated fitness-trail locations and links to maintenance contacts for the latest conditions(2). The regional visitors’ guide for Lappeenranta links to trail PDFs and broader outdoor resources for the city and surroundings(3). Näitä polkuja tallaan describes Katralammen laavu (sometimes called Sikalaavu) as a high perch with a view down to Katralampi, reached along blue-marked paths from the Myllymäki recreation side or other approaches, with a stiff final climb from the road(4). Along this route, the Myllymäki downhill and cross-country ski centres appear early as landmarks in the same outdoor complex. About 7.8 km from the start, Kiukkaanlammen laavu matches the city’s named Kiukkaanlammen retkeilyreitti segment and is a natural lunch or overnight stop. Near the end, Katralammen laavu sits close to the full mapped distance. The route passes Pappilankorven ampumarata (shooting range) near the start; treat this as a safety and access cue and follow any local restrictions. The same Myllymäki–Joutseno trail network links to Haukvuoren lenkki and the Joutseno centre–Myllymäki E10 connection, and shorter loops such as Kiukkaanlammen reitti branch from the Kiukkaanlampi area—useful if you want to shorten the day or combine with winter ski tracks when they are open. Allow most of a day in typical summer conditions, with time for laavu stops and photos. Check the city’s pages for the latest on maintenance and any local notices(1)(2).

For maps, services, and background on the Ritakoski–Lahnasenkoski stretch of Hiitolanjoki, start with the Luontoon.fi recreation area page(1). Visit Lakeland Finland packages the same outing as the Hiitolanjoki scenic trail for travellers and notes contact details for the South Karelia Recreation Area Foundation(3). Hiitolanjoki trails is about 3,5 km of marked walking along that border river in Rautjärvi, South Karelia, threaded through mill and rapids scenery between Ritakoski and Lahnasenkoski. The South Karelia Recreation Area Foundation owns and develops visitor infrastructure along the river; entry is free(3). From the river corridor you quickly reach pocket destinations spaced by distance: roughly 2 km from the start you pass Rautjärven kuntoportaat, where the long-distance Rautaesirippureitti Etelä-Karjala cycling trail touches the shore—handy if you combine a bike approach with an on-foot loop along the bank. A little farther on, Korkeamäenojansuu - veneenlaskupaikka offers a small-boat put-in on a side channel. Near the Lahnasenkoski mills, Lahnasen lintulava gives a sheltered view over wetlands and shallows; Retkipaikka describes recent upgrades including an accessible approach to the bird-watching structure(2). The Lahnasen grillikatos sits a few hundred metres farther along Ritakoskentie and works as the main covered campfire and picnic stop on this segment; Visit Lakeland Finland mentions a barbecue shed and outdoor toilet on the far side of the Lahnasenkoski plant area(3). Underfoot you alternate between riverbank path, woodland side trails, and duckboards over wet ground—Retkipaikka recommends trainers in a dry summer but rubber boots in spring when planks can sit under high water(2). The outing is gently rolling with short staircases near old power-plant structures; the same blog rates it as moderate verging on easy family walking(2). Major dam removals and habitat work on Lahnasenkoski finished in 2022, restoring free-flowing rapids and fish spawning habitats that interpretive boards along the path explain(2). Some bloggers walk a longer riverside circuit of about 4,7 km; the line on our map follows about 3,5 km as one continuous path through the same core landscape(2). Rautjärvi lists Hiitolanjoen maisemapolku among its local nature trails together with Haukkavuori and Rajojen reitti when you want a second hike in the municipality(4).

Mikkiksen Story Trail is about 13.7 km of signed hiking in the Mikkolanniemi recreation area east of Parikkala, in South Karelia. The municipality’s hiking network uses orange paint on trees and signposts; printable brochures match the outdoor recreation listings on the City of Parikkala’s pages(1). Visit Parikkala describes a short 3 km option and a longer circuit of roughly 12–15 km around Virtsalammen laavu, with story boards along the way on themes such as tar burning, smithies, a cup-marked stone, Pyhämäki, and the distinctive “snake spruce” by the path(2). For closures and PDF maps, the same Visit Parikkala page links a route map and brochure(2). The route begins from the Mikkolanniemi activity centre area off Mikkolanniementie. Very near the start you pass Mikkolanniemen pallokenttä and Mikkolanniemen lentopallokenttä by the address block, then almost immediately reach Tervakummun kota—about 170 m in—with a fireplace and one of the story boards on Finland’s tar regions and tar pits. Farther along, roughly 6.3 km from the start, Virtsalammen laavu offers a longer rest by the water. Between these points the terrain shifts through spruce and leafy forest, forest roads, and open views toward fields and small lakes in the Lake Ladoga Karelia landscape. In the same corridor, Mikkiksen latu follows the prepared ski line in winter and Mikkolanniemen hiihtoladut offers additional village-maintained ski options; when a track is groomed for skiing, walking on it is not allowed so skiers keep a clear lane(1). The long Lintuinmaan pyöräilyreitti cycling route passes nearby for riders linking wider South Karelia tours. Via Karelia describes the wider Mikkolanniemi–Uukuniemi outdoor corridor toward Uukuniemi, with Mikkiksen tarinapolku named among sights along that line(4). Retkipaikka published Luontopolkumies’ walk-through, which notes wet sections near Virtsalammen laavu, overgrown stretches, and nettles in summer—rubber boots and long trousers are practical on the longer round(3).

The Kirjavala canal trail is a short loop of about 2.1 km in Kirjavala village, Parikkala, South Karelia. It follows the banks of the historic Kirjavala canal on Kirjavalanjoki, between open fields and wooded shoreline. The trail is an easy way to combine a walk with one of the region’s most interesting 19th-century drainage projects: the canal was cut to lower the surface of Lake Suur-Rautjärvi and reclaim farmland. For up-to-date information on Parikkala’s hiking network, how routes are marked in the terrain, and downloadable route PDFs, use the City of Parikkala(1) outdoor recreation pages. Broader ideas for visiting the municipality — including other trails and services — are on visitParikkala.fi(2). The Kirjavala–Kesusmaa village pages describe the canal path as about two kilometres with fireplaces and viewpoints along the water(3). Along the way you can read the story of the canal on information boards (described in independent write-ups as starting near the village shop area). The canal banks were cleared in the early 2000s and a nature path with resting places was laid out beside the water, and Suomen kanavat / Tarmo Hurskainen’s canal notes summarise the engineering facts: permission to lower the lake was granted in 1834, the cut was made in 1835–1838, the first drawdown freed about 640 hectares of new fields, a deepening campaign in the 1920s–1931 added roughly another 661 hectares, and the channel has since been maintained as a recreational corridor with a walking route and rest spots(4). The Tarinaikkuna blog’s walk-through of the canal path adds local colour: the route is presented as beginning from the yard of Röksä village shop, with boards explaining the phases of digging — including how the parish secured permission, how the first lowering changed the shoreline, and how the difficult second deepening in the 1920s stretched over many years before completion in 1931(5). Parikkala marks its hiking routes in the terrain with orange paint around trees and guide posts(1). This loop suits walkers who want a compact cultural–nature outing off Highway 6 between Parikkala town and the Russian border area.

Rautjärvi E10 hiking trail is about 19.4 km as a point-to-point day hike on the European long-distance E10 corridor in Parikkala and Rautjärvi, South Karelia. Locally the long path is often called Rajojen reitti (the Borders Route): it runs through pine heaths and spruce forests along an old border line between South Karelia and South Savo. For this segment, trailhead context and the Simpele information board location are described on the Municipality of Rautjärvi outdoor pages(1). The wider story of the border line—old peace-treaty boundaries that today also separate Parikkala from Punkaharju and former provinces—is summarised for walkers on visitParikkala(2). Parikkala lies in lake-rich eastern Karelia; the route starts from the Simpele end of the chain and works toward Haukkavuori, the area’s best-known viewpoint. About 5 km from the start you pass Venäitlammen laavu, a lean-to for a break. Mid-route, around 13.8 km, Mäkilammen laavu – Rautjärvi offers another shelter beside forest ponds. Near the north-eastern part of the line, about 17.5 km from the start, Haukkavuoren laavu sits where the trail meets Retkeilyreitti Simpele-Haukkavuori; you can branch to Haukkavuoren luontopolku or continue along Simpele-Haukkavuori toward Simpele. Metsähallitus documents that connector on Luontoon.fi(4). At Haukkavuori, Retkipaikka describes the 171 m summit, the steep drop toward Sarajärvi, and the carved boundary markers linked to the Peace of Nystad—worth reading for the historical viewpoint detail(3). The same forest network links to Pöröpeikon polku (with Pörölammen laavu ja varaussauna), the long-distance Rautaesirippureitti Etelä-Karjala cycling route, and Rajojen reitti Ruokolahti (E10) for multi-day planners. Regional marking practice for these trails uses orange paint on trees and signposts in the countryside(5).

The Niinimäki nature trail is a short loop of about 1.5 km in Lappeenranta, in South Karelia. It is one of the city’s shorter marked forest walks in built-up woodlands rather than a remote backcountry hike. Start with the City of Lappeenranta(1) pages on hiking areas and nature trails for maintenance context, parking near recreation routes, and the online map that layers ski tracks and other paths. Visit Lappeenranta(2) pulls together shore walks, islands, easy nature paths, and other outings around Lake Saimaa from the same city. The South Karelia hiking portal(3) lists routes and practical tips across the region and sits alongside the same recreation partnership network the city names on its forestry pages. Public sources rarely spell out every bend on this loop, so treat the city materials as the place to confirm approach roads, any seasonal closures, and how the trail sits next to wider paths. The round-trip distance matches a quick lunch-hour or after-work stroll rather than a full-day hike.

Etelä-Karjala is lake-rich border country where esker forests meet long shorelines. In Parikkala, Harjujen reitistö—marketed as Rantaraitti plus Sikoharju nature reserve—threads town-centre paths with Simpelejärvi views and the wooded ridge above Harjulinnan. For a printable PDF map, trailhead coordinates, and the split between the 1.5 km Rantaraitti shore walk and roughly 2 km of Sikoharju ridge loops, start with Visit Parikkala(1). The City of Parikkala explains orange paint rings on trees, directional posts, and field infoboards about plants, wildlife, and sights; the same page states Harjujen reitistö, Jääkausipolku, and Kyynärpäänjoenpolku also work for mountain biking(2). Retkipaikka's Parikkala collection is a worthwhile read if you are stitching together longer ridge outings such as Pöröpeikon polku or Mikkiksen tarinapolku on other days(3). The trail is about 7.1 km as one outing on our map. It is easy overall and stays close to services, not deep backcountry. From the Harjunlinnan urheilukenttä block you soon reach Saharannan beach volleyball courts and Rantapuiston uimaranta on Simpelejärvi—Visit Parikkala highlights spring and autumn migration when arctic geese move along the open north–south axis of the lake(1). Parikkalan ulkokuntosali, Leijona frisbeegolf, and Parikkala DiscGolfPark sit along the mid-route sports belt before the line swings toward Kirjola. There Parikkalahalli, Kirjolan koulun pallokenttä, and the surrounding neighbourhood gyms and rinks cluster around Kirjolan koulun liikuntasali—handy if you want to combine a walk with hall bookings or ice time. About four kilometres from the start, Likolammen rantauimala offers a lakeshore swim point where City of Parikkala also describes linked ski and running loops for winter crossover planning(2). On the Sikoharju side near the municipal offices, Visit Parikkala points to the Laatokan puolustajien memorial on the ridge crest(1). The route shares junctions with the South Karelia bike backbone Rautaesirippureitti Etelä-Karjala and Lintuinmaan pyöräilyreitti and brushes Siikalahden retkilatu winter skiing; Arkusjärven kuntorata and Arkusjärven valaistu latu tie into the disc-golf end of town(2). Read more on our pages for Rantapuiston uimaranta, Likolammen rantauimala, or Parikkalahalli when you need facility specifics.

The trail is about 8.8 km on the Kyläniemi peninsula in Taipalsaari, South Karelia, threading Lake Saimaa shoreline and forest on the Second Salpausselkä ice-marginal formation. For planning and background, start with Visit Taipalsaari’s hiking pages(1), which list Taipalsaari’s outdoor destinations and Geopark sites together with maintenance partners. The VI Kyläniemi page on the City of Taipalsaari website(2) is the deepest official introduction to the peninsula’s geology, history, and downloadable route map. The Kyläniemi village site describes village information boards, QR content, and the Kyläareena grill shelter and parking(3). The route is a day hiking path rather than a closed loop: it follows the peninsula’s forest and shore paths and connects the same cultural heritage story as the wider village route network—village boards, rest spots, and fireplaces marked on the heritage maps(2)(3). The landscape pairs glacial deltas and moraine ridges with Saimaa views; rare dry-meadow plants grow on sun-facing sandy slopes in places(2). Nearby recreation hubs such as Sarviniemi (bike ferry to Kyläniemi in summer) and Rastinniemi appear on Visit Taipalsaari’s hiking pages as major lake destinations in the same municipality(1). Long-distance cyclists often use the separate Kyläniemen kierros long route listed on Luontoon.fi through the same lake district(4); that cycling loop is a different line from this hiking trail but shows how Kyläniemi sits in the Saimaa archipelago network. Taipalsaari lies in South Karelia. The trailhead area on Kyläniemi is reached along local roads from highway 62 via Utulantie and Kyläniementie(2).

Tolpankangas Nature Trail is about 5.2 km loop through pine heath and ice-age ridge country in Kannuskoski, Luumäki, South Karelia. For route description, recommended direction, parking coordinates, and what to expect after the lean-to, the Kannuskoski village website is the best place to start(1). The trail runs on forest and sandy roads and paths between low eskers; the shoreline stop is Karhulampi, where Karhulammen laavu sits with a campfire place and a small jetty for a swim. About one kilometre from the parking area along the marked approach you reach Karhulammen laavu—easy enough for a short outing with small children if you skip the full loop. The Kannuskoski page recommends walking counter-clockwise so Karhulampi and the laavu come toward the end of the circuit rather than at the beginning(1). Retkipaikka – Luontopolkumies describes the same landscape in detail: long forest-road legs, crossings such as Livontie, Rastaslampi mire beside the track, and the steepest climb after the laavu back onto the ridge(2). Some older paint on trees appears in places; after the laavu you should rely on a map, a GPS track, or a photo of the information board map(1)(2). The same rolling terrain works for a fitness walk or mountain bike ride; the forest roads may see occasional light motor traffic (2). Paddlers on the regional Väliväylän reitti, Etelä-Karjalan osuus water trail pass near the esker south of the route—the kayak line is separate from the walking loop but connects the wider South Karelia paddling scene. In winter, the City of Luumäki lists groomed ski trails in the municipality; the Kannuskoski area ski track network includes a leg past Karhulammen laavu, which can help orient winter visitors even when you are hiking the summer loop(3).

Malonsaari nature trail is about 3.4 km of hiking on a small forested island in Lake Saimaa at Ukonniemi, Imatra, South Karelia. For local access notes and how the city lists the trail, start with the City of Imatra’s Malonsaaren luontopolku page(2). Metsähallitus publishes the same route on Luontoon.fi under the name Malonsaaren polku, alongside other outdoor recreation information for the area(1). The island is set aside for outdoor use: no summer cottages, and a wooden footbridge from 2012 links the mainland to the island so small boats can pass underneath(3). You can approach from the Hosseinlahdentie side or from the Somerkuja shoreline near Leppälahti; both sides have parking options described in trail guides(3)(4). After roughly one kilometre on the trail you reach Malonsaaren nuotiopaikka, a campfire spot on a rocky sunny patch—bring your own firewood, as none is supplied(3)(4). The path mixes easy forest walking with duckboard sections toward the shore, and independent guides describe blue paint marks on trees to help you stay on route(4). Finnish hikers often walk the island circuit counterclockwise(3). The same Ukonniemi shoreline sits on longer networks: Imatran Kylpylän luontopolku and the Imatra–Ruokolahti E10 lakeshore walking route touch the same services, and Imatran melontareitit passes the island for paddlers. Paula Savelius-Kontinen’s Retkipaikka piece on Malonsaari adds on-the-ground detail: local use is lively on fine weekends, and a small clearcut opening on the northern part of the island is visible from the path(3). Out in the Nature’s English-language walk-through notes slippery cobbles when the ground is frozen, a narrow bridge deck, and that there is no winter upkeep or lighting—plan for daylight and footwear with grip in ice and snow(4).

For the downloadable booklet, terrain between Torikatu and the Kaukopää factory area, and accessibility notes, start from the Vuoksenniskan luontopolku material on Imatra.fi(1); the same entry links the full PDF guide(2). Luontopolkumies wrote a grounded walk-through from 2020: parking at the end of Havurinne, blue paint marks, mixed wide and narrower forest sections, glimpses of Lake Saimaa and the railway, Saimaa Geopark boards on the ice-marginal delta landform, and remnants of a 1910s sawmill with cableway footings worth a pause near the end of the circuit(3). Jälki.fi documents a much longer Vuoksenniska–Rautio–Huhtasenkylä MTB loop that shares the same recreational corner of Imatra with Kissankierros and Ollinpolku if you want machine-legal kilometres after a short nature walk(4). The trail is about 3 km as mapped and sits on the First Salpausselkä ridge in Vuoksenniska, Imatra, winding through forest between the school–sports cluster and the fringes of local industry. Imatra.fi describes an educational nature trail: posts introduce typical boreal forest plants, birds and mammals, and sometimes forest care, environmental protection and local history(1)(2). At the Vuoksenniska school and sports corner you quickly pass outdoor facilities people combine with a walk: the Vuoksenniskan frisbeekeskus / AM-rata and Vuoksenniskan frisbeekeskus / PRO-rata courses, Vuoksenniskan urheilukenttä and Vuoksenniskan nurmikenttä, plus Vuoksenniskan urheilukentän tenniskentät a little farther along the same thread. The running track Vuoksenniskan kuntorata and winter ski trail Vuoksenniskan latu share this hub, so expect other users and the occasional disc off the fairway when fairways sit close to the walking line. The middle kilometres stay mostly on broad, easy soles through pine and birch forest; one stretch drops to a narrower footpath where rowan arches the way(3). Industrial heritage and geopark interpretation round out the outing before you drift back toward Havurinne‑style parking by the school area(3). South Karelia is easy day‑trip territory from Imatra, and Vuoksenniska itself works well as a family‑friendly hour outdoors paired with the sports pitches or a bike leg on Imatran arkkitehtuuri- ja nähtävyyskierros if you already brought a bicycle.

This route is about 17.5 km as a single point-to-point hiking line on Lake Saimaa, from Hinkanranta in Joutseno to the Imatran Kylpylä spa area in Imatra. It is one branch of the wider Joutseno hiking network that Via Karelia documents as part of the European E10 long-distance trail concept in South Karelia(1). The same regional programme explains how the branch leaves the Myllymäki-area network, crosses main road and rail, and reaches Hinkanranta’s lakeshore with a swimming beach, summer café, and sauna that does not need advance booking(1). From there the path continues through countryside toward Imatra, passing a lean-to at Lapinsuo and Valkamalahti beach before finishing at Imatran Kylpylä(1). For opening times and services at the beach, check our Hinkanranta place page; the City of Lappeenranta also lists Hinkanranta among its village beaches on Lake Saimaa(2). The wider Saimaa shore walking context—including signposted lakeside paths and rest places—is summarised on Visit Lappeenranta’s Rantaraitti pages(3). Along the first kilometres you pass Hinkanranta and Hinkanrannan lentopallokenttä at the water’s edge. About 11 km into the route the line comes close to Korvenkylän koulun lähiliikuntapaikka and the school’s indoor sports hall—useful landmarks if you need to orient near the village. Around 13–14 km the route passes Vipelen Tallin maneesi, Vipelen tallin kenttä, and Atreenalin Seikkailupuisto Saimaa, so families see adventure-park infrastructure beside the trail. Nearer Imatra, Rauhan pallokenttä, Ukonlinna, Ukonlinnan beach volleyball courts, and Ukonlinnan uimaranta cluster in the Ukonniemi lakeside sports area before the last stretch to Imatran Kylpylä, the spa’s bowling hall, gym spaces, and other services at Purjekuja. The long Imatra–Ruokolahti–Rautjärvi hiking route (about 89 km) starts from Imatran kylpylä and belongs to the same E10-related network, with orange paint and wooden signposts on many sections(4). If you are combining days on the E10, that source is the clearest regional overview of how Joutseno, Ruokolahti, Rautjärvi, and Parikkala links fit together(4). Near Ukonniemi, Malonsaari island’s short nature loop includes a campfire place without supplied firewood—bring your own if you plan a fire—per Retkipaikka’s Malonsaari article(5); the island is a common side trip in the same lake area rather than a required part of this 17.5 km segment. Lappeenranta and Imatra both lie in South Karelia. The route shares geometry with the long Lappeenranta–Imatra “cities on the border” cycling route where those networks overlap, so you may meet cyclists on shared sections.

The Vuoksi nature and culture route is an easy, year-round riverside walk in Imatra that follows the Vuoksi, the main outflow of Lake Saimaa. The City of Imatra maintains the trail and publishes the route description, brochure, and accessibility notes(1). The same trail is also listed on Luontoon.fi as Vuoksen luonto- ja kulttuurilenkki for national outdoor browsing(2). The trail is about 8 km. It starts from the Mansikkala side of the river: the departure board sits under the Mansikkala bridge on highway 6, next to the bird information board on the west bank(1). From there the route heads south toward Imatrankoski, crosses the Vuoksi, and returns along the east bank to the start(1). The city materials describe 32 numbered checkpoints with themes such as Vuoksi birds, typical plants, park forest trees and shrubs, and wetland life beside the guide booklet’s wider story on local history, culture, and human impact on nature(1). Near the beginning, the line passes Ulkoliikuntapuisto Mansikkala and reaches Varpasaaren uimapaikka, a riverside swimming spot where a short break by the water is easy. Farther along, the Imatrankoski riverfront brings together outdoor facilities such as Imatrankosken ulkokuntosali, beach volleyball, and the sports field cluster—busy in places, but easy to read as one continuous riverfront recreation area beside the rapids. Imatran valtionhotellin kylpylä marks the spa and hotel side of the same waterfront. Toward the closing kilometres on the Mansikkala side, Kostinpuisto offers a greener pocket before you return toward the sports and school buildings around Kotipolku. For the latest on brochures, PDF maps, and any route changes, rely on the City of Imatra pages(1). Sirpan luontoblogi’s walk around the Vuoksi in winter light adds a personal sense of the river’s scale and ice, and names landmarks such as the apple-tree park and bridges many visitors notice along the shore(3). Jalkaisin’s long post on Vuoksen kulttuurireitti overlaps the same river corridor and is useful for context on museums, churches, and industrial heritage if you want to extend reading beyond the nature checkpoints(4). The same riverside corridor is shared with Vuoksen pyöräilyreitti, and Imatran arkkitehtuuri- ja nähtävyyskierros branches off the wider city network for a much longer themed ride. People with reduced mobility cannot follow the marked route on sections 4–10 and 17–21 as described by the City of Imatra; alternatives run from checkpoint 4 directly to 11, and from 17 past Imatrankoski church toward 22, then 22 toward 21, 20, and 19(1).

Muukonsaari Nature Trail is a short loop on Muukonsaari, an island in Lake Saimaa off Pöyhiänniemi in the Joutseno area. Lappeenranta is the city and South Karelia is the region. The trail is about 0.6 km. South Karelia Recreation Area Foundation publishes current access details, walking distances to Muukonsaaren retkikeskus, and event dates on Ekvas(1). Luontoon.fi(2) lists Muukonsaaren retkikeskus as a Saimaa shoreline destination. The Lehmusniemi hazel grove at the north end of the island is part of the Muukonsaaren lehmusniemi Natura site; EUNIS(4) documents the protected grove habitats. Retkipaikka(3) describes the path as a marked nature loop beside the recreation centre in the northern reserve, with rocky lakeshore views toward open Saimaa and rich deciduous forest where hazel is a signature species. From the trailhead area near Muukonsaaren retkikeskus, you soon pass Muukonsaaren nuotiopaikka, a campfire spot a few minutes into the loop. The same cluster includes the retkikeskus buildings and services managed by the foundation: rentable sauna and meal facilities are separate from the free-to-use outdoor shelters, but the exact booking mix changes over time, so confirm on Ekvas(1). About 0.6 km along the loop you reach Muukonsaaren grillikatos, a roofed grill shelter that pairs well with a break before you close the circle back toward the shore. If you want to extend the day without leaving the island network, Muukonsaaren latu follows marked ski tracks past the same shelters in winter. Retkisatamien reitti is a long kayaking route through South Karelia’s harbour network that touches Muukonsaaren nuotiopaikka and Muukonsaaren retkikeskus as part of a wider water journey(1)(2).

Aate-Pekan Trail is about 2.6 km of walking through esker forest, small lakes and a stream crossing near the Oronmylly activity centre in Särkisalmi, Parikkala, in South Karelia. The route is a popular short hike in the same outdoor cluster as longer Parikkala trails. For current access, maps and birdlife notes, start from Visit Parikkala’s Aate-Pekan page(1); the City of Parikkala’s hiking and ski-trail hub links regional PDF maps and Etelä-Karjalan virkistysaluesäätiö listings(2). A 2025 EU-supported project replaced the deteriorated stream bridge and steep hill stairs with new pressure-treated timber, rest landings and handrails so the full circuit could reopen safely; maintenance is described as volunteer-led work by Oronmyllysäätiö in project reporting(3). From the Oronmylly yard the path climbs onto ridges with views toward Tarvaslampi, crosses wetlands on duckboards, and includes a viewpoint on Suurvuori. Along the way you pass Vironperän laavu within the first few hundred metres and Suurvuoren kota farther along—both are natural lunch and fire stops with campfire opportunities described on Visit Parikkala(1). The route finishes back near Oronmylly; the sports fields at Oronmylly sit beside the return leg and mark the end of the hike. The trail is strong for birdwatching: Visit Parikkala lists species such as wood sandpiper, common sandpiper and teal in the mosaic of mire, stream and pond edges, and mentions possible owl calls on late-winter nights(1). Luontopolkumies’ May 2020 walk-through praises the rest spots and notes waterproof footwear after wet weather on the bog bridges(4). The same trailhead serves longer marked hikes: Kyynärpäänjoen polku continues along Kyynärpäänjoki, and Rajojen reitti E10 links into Parikkala’s border-country long-distance network(1)(2). Winter ski routes also radiate from Oronmylly; check separate grooming notices before walking on prepared ski tracks.

For the clearest overview of this route—length, landscape, and the Riutanlaavu and Kurenlaavu shelters—start with Visit Taipalsaari’s hiking section, which lists the trail at 18.1 km and describes Kirkkosaari-area countryside around Lake Saimaa(1). The City of Taipalsaari points walkers and cyclists to Visit Taipalsaari and Etelä-Karjalan virkistysaluesäätiö for route descriptions and regional outdoor ideas(2). A 2020 piece in Länsi-Saimaan Sanomat described major maintenance: clearing overgrowth, renewed blue markings and signs, new duckboards near Riutan laavu, bridges over ditches, and refurbished shelters with guestbooks and basic first-aid supplies—useful context for how the trail feels on the ground today(3). Näitä polkuja tallaan’s walk-through adds on-the-ground detail: suggested counterclockwise walking, farm tracks and pine forest, a distinctive “snake spruce”, wetland pools, an old barn view and Liukkola windmill, a pass-through gap between two large boulders, and wide lake views toward Riutanselkä from Riutanlaavu(4). The Haikkaanlahden retkeilyreitti is about 18.1 km through South Karelia’s Taipalsaari municipality. It starts from Haikkaanlahden urheilukenttä on Vitsaintie and threads mixed pine forest, wetlands, field edges, and lake views typical of the Pien-Saimaa shoreline. About 5 km from the start you reach Riutan laavu on a wooded point toward open water—a natural first break. Kuren laavu sits farther along, roughly two thirds into the distance, in a more inland setting between fields and forest roads; both work well for lunch or an overnight bivouac if you pack for lean-to use. Near the end of the mapped line the route passes Haikkaanlahden urheilukenttä again, tying back to the same sports-field area where many people park. The same corner of Kirkkosaari links into Taipalsaaren maisemapyöräilyreitti and Taipalsaaren maisemapyöräily (the local scenic cycling network) and, farther along shared cycling corridors, the long Länsi-Saimaan linnoituskierros—handy if you combine a walking day with bike touring in western Lake Saimaa. Taipalsaari sits in Etelä-Karjala (South Karelia); expect quiet rural roads, seasonal hunting activity in surrounding forests, and changeable trail surfaces after rain.

The Vaellusreitit ja luontopolut section on the City of Lemi website is the main official index for municipal trails and points to partner write-ups(1). Day-to-day questions about the Huttula sports corner—ice rink, ski track, laavu, and the linked Repovuoren lenkki—are summarised on the City of Lemi Ulkoliikuntapaikat pages(2). Lemin kylät describes how local volunteers look after the Salmentie recreation pocket and how the path climbs past Nuoramäki crags toward Repovuori(4). Retkipaikka published a detailed walk-through of this loop, including the blue-and-white posts, the rope-assisted pull up Nuoramäki, erratic boulders in young forest, double crossings of Salmentie, field margins, and the steep slab-and-step climb onto Repovuori with benches along the rim—worth reading for photos and pacing notes(3). Repovuoren luontopolku is about 4 km on our map as a loop starting from the Huttula sports area in Lemi, South Karelia. From Huttulan kota ja laavu and Huttulan kaukalo beside Salmentie, the marked circle winds through spruce and blueberry forest, shares roughly the first kilometre with Tuulimyllyn reitti (a longer village nature loop on our map), passes a signed junction toward Tuulimylly and Repovuori, and spends time under power lines and along field edges before the rocky amphitheatre of Repovuori. The climb is short but awkward in places; the crest has benches and a limited view over fields. The return uses forest track, a stretch of sandy road, and passes old farm outbuildings without entering yards. In winter the same corner hosts Latu Huttulan reitti; the kota and laavu remain the natural meeting point. Forestry stacks, clearing work, or small reroutes occasionally interrupt markings—check Vaellusreitit ja luontopolut or Ulkoliikuntapaikat before you go(1)(2). Dedicated Finnish YouTube searches did not surface a short clip that clearly shows only this loop.

Irja Hannosen Nature Trail is about 3.1 km through meadow, forest, and Kuolimo lake shore near Karkaus village in Suomenniemi, Mikkeli. For route cards at the information board, the Kuituran rest area, and wildlife you might see along the way, start with the Suomenniemi tourism page for this trail(2). Luontoon.fi(1) lists the same trail in the national outdoor catalogue. The City of Mikkeli’s regional nature hiking overview notes Irja Hannosen polku among Suomenniemi routes looked after by local associations, with signage, a lean-to, fire places, a dock, and a swimming-suitable beach(4). The path crosses lush meadows and former field edges, then follows Kuolimo’s bays. About 3 km from the start you reach Halisen laavu (Kuituran laavu): a table, benches, a small dock, and a fire ring for a break by the water. Duckboard sections help along rocky shoreline; Retkipaikka’s Mika Markkanen recommends waterproof footwear and long trousers in wet grass, mirey spots, and after rain, and notes red paint trail markings along the shore(3). A short optional branch toward Kissalampi and a low forested rise (Huuhkajavuori on local maps) adds a little height without a full summit climb on the main circuit(3). Roughly 300 m from this route’s corridor, Saarajärven kierros loops Saarajärvi and Kaakkolampi; Kaakkolammen laavu - Mikkeli on that loop is an easy add-on if you want a longer day in the same area.

For the official trail description and the latest maintenance notes for this exact route, start with the Haukvuoren lenkki page on Luontoon.fi(1), published by Metsähallitus. The same pages situate the walk in the Joutseno part of Lappeenranta, south of Lake Saimaa on the Salpausselkä ridge—good context if you are planning other outings in South Karelia. Haukvuoren lenkki is about 4.7 km end to end. It runs through the Myllymäki outdoor area: the path passes Myllymäen laskettelukeskus and Myllymäen hiihtokeskus (downhill and cross-country ski centres) and continues toward Haukvuoren laavu, a lean-to on a high rocky outcrop with open views—roughly 3.3 km from the Myllymäki access. The terrain mixes dry pine and spruce heath, occasional denser forest pockets, and short steeper climbs near the hill; waterproof footwear pays off after rain, as several independent walkers have noted(2)(3). The route shares trailheads and forest roads with longer circuits in the same network. If you want a full-day loop from Myllymäki, the Myllymäki–Katralampi circuit links other shelters and ponds on a much longer round trip; the Joutseno centre–Myllymäki E10 hiking line ties the ski area to central Joutseno. In winter, lit competition ski tracks and other ski routes also start from Myllymäki—check separate grooming information for skiing. Retkipaikka’s Haukvuori article gives a compact on-the-ground view of the blue-blazed path, the cliff-top lean-to, and the option to return via Vesikkola hunting lodge for a slightly longer loop(2). Luontopolkumies walked the full circular tour from the Myllymäki car park, describing side paths, Välivuori before the main summit, and typical round-trip distances a little over eight kilometres when the full loop is followed—useful detail if you are comparing pacing with guidebook figures(3).

The Ice Age Trail (Jääkausipolku) is a roughly 14.9 km hiking route in Uukuniemi, Parikkala, in South Karelia. It crosses dry esker forest, gravel and forest roads, and short asphalt links while visiting kettle holes, ridges, and lake shores left by the ice ages. For route lengths, maps, PDF brochures, and driving directions, start with the Visit Parikkala Jääkausipolku page(1). The same trail is listed on Luontoon.fi for browsing alongside other outdoor routes in the municipality(2). On our map the hiking line is about 14.9 km end to end. Brochures describe two marked loop options of about 9.5 km and 13.6 km within the same network: the shorter loop circles Paakalampi in steeper esker terrain past the wooden churchyard and pine ridges, while the longer loop adds gentler forest-road travel around Paaka- and Kirkkolampi and finishes with a short asphalt link(1). The best-known landform is Huttumalja, a kettle about 60 m across and 25 m deep beside Huttumaljantie, with information boards explaining how suppa features form(1)(3). Smaller kettles and ice-age interpretation boards appear along the esker sections(1)(3). Paakalammen laavu sits on Paakalampi shore near the end of the mapped line, with a fireplace and seating—read more on our page for Paakalammen laavu. Retkipaikka’s walk-through notes the laavu as the main sit-down stop and describes orange paint marks on trees, moderate effort, and mixed surfaces from forest paths to short asphalt(3). You can shorten the day by skipping the Paakalampi circuit on the longer variant(1). The route passes near Uukuniemi’s wooden cross church from 1797 and, on the longer option, turnoffs toward Papinniemi camping and signed paths to the Kirkkokallio archaeological site of an old Orthodox village, where excavations since 1995 have uncovered Karelian farm remains and a parish church still standing in the 1600s before the settlement was abandoned(1). Parikkala lies in eastern South Karelia. In winter the line overlaps groomed ski tracks in places; see our page for Uukuniemen kk:n hiihtoladut if you want a ski-focused outing on the same footprint.

Äpätinkangas Nature Trail is a short out-and-back hike of about 0.9 km one way in Laikko, Rautjärvi, South Karelia—plan on roughly 2 km total walking if you return the same way. The City of Rautjärvi lists Äpätinkangas with other municipal nature trails and gives the Latvajärventie address on its hiking and nature trails page(1). Rautjärvi lies in South Karelia near the Russian border; the outing is an easy way to see state-owned forest that is also part of an important old-growth protection mosaic for the region. Retkipaikka’s article by Maija Mehto describes walking an old forestry road bed past interpretation boards (some with QR codes) and halved pine benches for quiet stops(2). The path leads to a lookout tower on a glacial ice-marginal ridge with views over extensive July 2010 windthrow—the storm left trunks where they fell, so the forest reads more like a natural disturbance laboratory than a thinned plantation(2). Retkipaikka notes heavy deadwood (reportedly on the order of tens of times more coarse woody debris than a typical managed pine stand) and habitat for many deadwood-dependent species(2). A picnic table and a separate lean-to shelter sit along the route; there is no fire place on the sensitive dry heath, and the same piece points travellers who want a campfire toward a nearby Hannula lean-to with directions on the parking information board(2). Underfoot it stays gentle for an old woods road: families can budget a couple of hours if you stop to read boards and watch for wildlife sign. The European Environment Agency’s EUNIS summary for Natura site FI0417009 lists western taiga, spruce-rich herb forest, and bog woodland, and records the flying squirrel as a protected species for the site(3)—light footsteps and dogs under full control help. Combine with other Rautjärvi walks such as Hiitolanjoki’s landscape paths when you are in the area; the city page groups them together(1).

Hämmäauteensuo nature trail 2 is about 3.9 km of hiking in Lappeenranta, South Karelia, through one of the city’s rare open mire patches. For visitor-facing detail on the boardwalk crossing, the lean-to, berry picking, and winter photos, Visit Lappeenranta keeps a dedicated Hämmäauteensuo mire trail page(1). Metsähallitus publishes the same trail entry on Luontoon.fi under the national outdoor map service naming used for imports(2). The City of Lappeenranta upgraded the approach with a wide, easy-going nature path finished in 2023 so the southern margin of the mire stays approachable for more visitors(3). Etelä-Saimaa reported local testers taking wheelchairs and strollers along the new stone-dust and boardwalk sections to Hämmäauteensuon laavu in late 2024(4). Almost immediately along the route you reach Hämmäauteensuon laavu, a popular picnic lean-to with a campfire grill, dry toilet, and illustrated nature boards facing the mire—read more on our page for that laavu. From the same shelter you can join Hämmäauteensuon luontopolku, the slightly longer sister footpath, or continue onto Suoluonto ja kalkki -pyöräilyreitti when you want a longer outing on wheels in the same landscape belt. Stay on the duckboards over peat whenever sources stress it: the mire is protected and fragile even though berry and mushroom picking remains permitted away from the most sensitive crossings.

The Hämmäauteensuo nature trail is an easy day hike through a raised bog and forest edge south of Lappeenranta in South Karelia. The area is a city-owned nature reserve of about 30 hectares, listed in the national bog protection programme, with an additional METSO forest block beside it. Visit Lappeenranta(1) describes access, the mire environment, and rules such as lighting campfires only at the designated grill at the lean-to. The trail is about 4.4 km. After roughly 3 km you reach Hämmäauteensuon laavu, a lean-to maintained by the South Karelia Recreation Area Foundation where you can pause at a fire ring; a dry toilet is available there. The route shares that stop with the Suoluonto ja kalkki -pyöräilyreitti cycling route and with the shorter Hämmäauteensuo nature trail 2 loop that Luontoon.fi(3) lists as a related hiking option in the same mire. Around the bog you move on duckboards and forest paths; the City of Lappeenranta(2) added a parallel accessible nature trail from the car park toward the lean-to, finished in late 2023, about 1.5 m wide with crushed stone, boardwalks on wet sections, benches, and clearer signage, while leaving narrower natural paths for those who prefer them. Luontopolkumies(4) walked a similar circuit in 2022 and describes a typical southern Finnish raised bog with open fen sections, numbered information points, and boardwalk stretches where ordinary shoes suffice in summer but waterproof footwear helps in wet seasons. Berry and mushroom picking are allowed in the reserve under general everyman’s rights, as summarised on the visitor pages(1).

Linnoituksen luontopolku is a short loop walk on the Lappeenranta fortress hill above Lake Saimaa. On our map the route is about 1 km as one continuous loop; it is the hiking entry for the same signed nature and culture circuit that Visit Lappeenranta markets as Linnoituksen luonto- ja kulttuuripolku, with eleven boards about building history, cultural heritage, and characteristic plants, plus QR codes and web links for longer texts in Finnish, English, and Russian(1). GoSaimaa notes the guided circuit opened in May 2020 and highlights the fortress as part of the Saimaa UNESCO Global Geopark(2). For closures, sign changes, and how the walk ties into the fortress mobile guide, start with Visit Lappeenranta(1) and the Tarinasoitin-based Fortress guide(4). Lappeenranta lies on a Saimaa peninsula that gained permanent settlement with the tar trade from the 1500s onward; the fortress works were completed in the 1790s as part of the wider border fortification system, and the embankments remain a rare, well-preserved Finnish fortress landscape(1). You can walk the circuit in either direction and read the boards in any order; some stretches follow rough ground on the ramparts, while the board locations are placed to keep access as easy as the terrain allows(1). Koiran kanssa reissussa describes a slow visit starting from the harbour, crossing the old fortress walls toward the west slope, then returning through Katariina Square and along the east ramparts with open views over the harbour—worth reading for on-the-ground pacing and picnic-friendly spots on warm days(3). The same central area links to longer city routes on our map: the lakeside Rantaraitti walking route and cycling loops such as Lappeenrannan kaupunkikierros pyöräilyreitti and Länsi-Saimaan linnoituskierros meet the fortress street network where visitors switch between walking and biking. Lappeenranta is the main city in South Karelia. Etelä-Karjala’s lake-and-forest outdoor network continues beyond the fortress in every direction if you want to combine this short visit with a longer day.

Saimaa Canal Trail is a short, easy cultural walk beside the Finnish section of the Saimaa Canal in Lappeenranta, between the Mälkiä and Mustola lock areas. On our map the route is about 2.6 km as one line along the towpath; Visit Lappeenranta describes the same signed circuit as roughly four kilometres end to end(1), and the English Visit page names the same cultural trail at about 1.5 km in one direction(4), so allow extra time if you explore both banks, read every board, or detour to the museum garden. For the latest on access, events, and how the walk connects to the wider shoreline network, start with Visit Lappeenranta(1). GoSaimaa situates the canal in South Karelia’s visitor offer and notes ongoing development work to improve services along the waterway(2). Saimaa Geopark presents the museum quarter and the cultural canal path as part of the UNESCO Global Geopark story, with mostly easy walking but stairs in places(3). The trail is best reached from the Saimaa Canal Museum near the Mälkiä lock (Sulkuvartijankatu 16). From the museum garden the path passes the Mälkiä lock and the smaller Pien-Mustola lock, then follows the canal bank toward Mustola. Along the way, boards explain the canal structures, landscape, vegetation, and water engineering; large information panels at both ends carry overview maps of the cultural trail and the Finnish side of the Saimaa Canal, with English material available at the museum when it is open(1). Near Mustola you cross the canal on a road bridge shared with motor traffic, so stay alert(1). The museum area itself is a Geopark-listed culture and nature site with exhibitions in the historic canal official’s house and summer café(3). The route ties into longer movement networks on our map: Rantaraitti, Lappeenranta, Saimaan kanavan sulkureitti pyöräillen, Lappeenranta-Imatra kaupungit rajalla -pyöräilyreitti, and Mustolan kuntorata meet or run alongside this corridor. About two kilometres along the line you pass Mustolan pallokenttä and Mustolan luistelukenttä—useful landmarks if you are orienting toward the lock end from sports facilities. Lappeenranta is the main city of South Karelia. The canal and lakeshore here are a natural continuation of a day that might also include fortress visits or boat trips elsewhere on Lake Saimaa.

Tainion Nature Trail is about 4.7 km of marked hiking loop along the Vuoksi River in Imatra, South Karelia. The City of Imatra maintains the trail and publishes the feature-specific page for distances, the themed station network, and seasonal tips(1). The route follows the west bank of the Vuoksi north toward Tainionkoski, crosses to the east bank on the Torna bridge, and returns to the shared trailhead. A route description aimed at visitors also notes easy light-traffic paths, a wooden footbridge and arch bridge at Neitsytniemi, and a short forest-path section near the end of the loop, with about two hours walking time typical for the full circuit(2). Imatra lies on the Vuoksi corridor; the South Karelia Ornithological Society describes the river as a major open waterway in the region for waterfowl and riparian birds through the seasons, which matches why the official start places a bird information board beside the trail sign(3). Forty numbered nature-trail stations line the loop. The city’s material explains that a printed guide introduces Vuoksi-shore nature, local history, and human land use, with emphasis on plants and additional coverage of birds and insects(1). Trails in Imatra also use QR codes at stations so you can open guidance on a phone where provided(1). Spring and summer are the main walking season; autumn brings strong colour along the river(1). Sections 1–10, 13–14, 16–18, and 27–32 are described as reachable for people with reduced mobility, while other parts use narrower forest paths(1). Along the route you pass near Harakan koulutuskenttä at the northern end of the riverside, cross the Sienimäen kaukalo channel area, and run close to Tainionkosken nurmikenttä and Tainionkosken lähiliikuntapaikka in the Tainionkoski neighbourhood—useful landmarks when matching the city’s bridge names to what you see on the ground. The same riverfront connects logically to other promoted loops: Vuoksen luonto- ja kulttuurilenkki for a longer Vuoksi culture-and-nature circuit, Vuoksen kulttuurireitti as a walking line through related shore sights, and Imatran arkkitehtuuri- ja nähtävyyskierros if you want a wide city sightseeing ride that touches the same shore points by bike.

The Kyynärpää River Trail is about 9.4 km as a single loop through forest and river scenery around Oronmylly near Särkisalmi. Parikkala lies in South Karelia; the trail is part of the municipality’s large signed hiking network. For printable route brochures and the same maps linked from the outdoor recreation pages, use the City of Parikkala’s Kyynärpäänjoen polku PDF and trail listings(1). Visit Parikkala describes ice-age potholes along the Kyynärpäänjoki river and two lean-tos for rest stops(2). Via Karelia’s regional guide notes three kettle holes grouped near Mälkiänmäen laavu and names the riverside lean-to at Kyynärpäänjoki(3). From the Oronmylly side of the loop, the path soon reaches Mälkiänmäen laavu—about 1.4 km into the walk—a good first stop in the hiidenkirnu area. Farther along, roughly halfway round, Kyynärpäänjoen laavu sits by the river. In the western part of the loop, Vironperän laavu and Suurvuoren kota lie close together; Suurvuoren kota pairs with the shorter Aate-Pekan polku loop and a viewpoint on Suurvuori. The route also passes the sports and shooting facilities of the Oronmylly centre—tennis, basketball, and volleyball courts appear near the line—before closing back toward the start. The same Oronmylly trail hub connects to other lines: Rajojen reitti (E10) on the long-distance trail toward Pöröpeikon polku, the Lintuinmaan pyöräilyreitti cycling route, and—on snow—the Kyynärpäänjoen–Hiidenkirnun ski loop. In winter, Parikkala grooms separate ski tracks in this area; when a track is prepared for skiing, walking on it is not allowed so skiers have a clear lane(1).