Svenska
Dansk
Suomi
Deutsch
Polskie
Français
Nederlands
Italiano
Español
Uusimaa is Finland's most densely populated region. Yet the distance to forests, lakes and the sea is often short. From the eastern outskirts of Helsinki to the Raseborg archipelago, there are marked nature trails, open-air areas and nature reserves that are suitable for both a short afternoon walk and a longer day trip.
This is the second article in HikingStore's series about hiking in the Finnish countryside, after Åland. The focus is on verifiable hiking destinations in Uusimaa – not on city attractions and not on calling every forest a wilderness. Here, the background, logistics and rules are more important than big words.
1. Meiko Nature Reserve – lakes and forests near Kirkkonummi
Meiko in Kirkkonummi is a good choice if you want to experience nature without having to travel far from the capital region. The area consists of forests, mountains, bogs and several lakes. On the shores of Meiko you may be lucky enough to hear the characteristic call of the common loon.
There are three marked trails:
- Kuikankierros Trail: 3.2 km
- Home tour: 4.4 km
- Meikonkierros Trail: 8.3 km
The trails are marked with rhombuses in different colors. The Kuikankierros trail goes to Lake Meiko and around Näseudden. The Kotokierros trail passes several smaller lakes on the high plateau, while the Meikonkierros trail follows a longer route around Meiko.
The terrain is rocky and has roots, elevation changes and mountain sections. This is not a smooth walking path, despite the relatively short distances. Meiko is therefore best suited to hikers who can walk steadily on uneven ground. Bring water, a packed lunch and a backpack that is stable .
Check current information with Uuvi and Kirkkonummi Municipality before departure. Dogs must be kept on a lead. Fires are only permitted in designated fire areas and when the regulations and any forest fire warnings allow it.
2. Kopparnäs–Störsvik – coastal cliffs in Ingå and Sjundeå
Kopparnäs–Störsvik is a continuous recreational area on the border between Ingå and Sjundeå. Here, pine forests and rocky areas meet the Gulf of Finland. The coast is often more exposed to wind than it looks on the map, and wet rocky areas quickly become slippery.
The area has several marked trails. Some examples are:
- Kopparnäs coastal route: 4 km
- Råbergets loop: 4.3 km
- Störsviks outdoor route: 3 km
- Klobbackan trail: 2.7 km
- Beach path: 1.8 km
The trails are multi-use, so you may encounter cyclists. Keep to the right where possible and be prepared for the path to vary between forest road, narrow path, mountain and coastal terrain.
Kopparnäs coastal route is suitable for those who want to prioritize sea views and cliffs. Råbergets runda is a better choice if you want to combine views with forest and a clearer circular route. Wear shoes with grip, even on dry summer days. A thin wind and rain jacket is wise because the weather on the coastal cliffs can change faster than in the forest.
See the current guidance information at Metsähallitus' Luontoon service . It also lists service and any changes.
3. Porkkala Cape – sea, archipelago and marked trails
Porkkala Cape in Kirkkonummi juts out into the Gulf of Finland and offers coastal nature without the need for a boat. Pine forests, rocky beaches, small marshes and open sea views make the area varied. It is also an important area for birdwatching in spring and autumn.
The most important marked trails are:
- Dragets path: approximately 2.1 km
- Telebergets loop: approximately 2.2 km
- Pampskatanin trip: approximately 1.4 km one way
The Pampskatan is the most coastal-oriented hike. It is easier at first, but becomes more demanding as it approaches the cliffs at the southern tip of the cape. The Telebergets loop offers views from higher terrain, while the Dragets stig trail is an alternative for a shorter hike through forest and rocky terrain.
At Porkala there are parking lots, dry toilets, cooking sheds and campfire sites. This does not mean that you can count on a free space or free parking at all times. Check the signs on site and only leave your car where it is allowed.
Keep your distance from the edge of slippery cliffs. Wind and wet rock outcrops are the most obvious risks here. Uuvi's description of Porkala Cape contains up-to-date information about trails, services and directions.
4. Nybonda Forest Nature Trail – short and close to the city in Helsinki
The Nybonda recreation area in eastern Helsinki shows how close nature can be to a big city. The two-kilometer forest nature trail runs through the Nybonda Forest Nature Reserve and has information boards about species and biodiversity.
The trail is suitable for beginners, families and anyone who wants to experience nature without setting aside a whole day. At the same time, you should not treat it like a smooth city park. The surface is partly uneven and hilly. Although some connections are on harder ground, there are roots, rocks and differences in height on the nature trail.
Nybondas lacks lighting and winter maintenance. This is important during late autumn when darkness comes early. Public transport is possible and parking is available at Nybondsvägen 1 and Rataudden 4, but always check signage and conditions. Do not assume that parking or service is free.
Camping, tenting and lighting fires are prohibited in nature conservation areas. Follow local regulations, although public access normally gives greater freedom outside protected areas. Read the City of Helsinki's information about Nybondas before visiting.
5. Tremanskärr Nature Trail – bog and forest in Espoo
Tremanskärr in northern Espoo is a verified alternative for those looking for lake and forest nature without choosing the most popular parts of Nuuksio. The nature trail is approximately 2.5 kilometers long. It includes a 1.2 kilometer stretch through the raised bog and an approximately 1.5 kilometer stretch around Kurkijärvi.
There are footbridges over the wetter parts and steps near the lake. The footbridges can be slippery after rain, so don't plan your hike as if it were an easy walk on gravel. The path is difficult to navigate in places and is best done with sturdy outdoor shoes.
From the parking lot at the exercise loop it is about 1.5 kilometers to the starting point of the nature trail. This makes the total walk longer than the nature trail itself. Bring water and a packed lunch as there are no sales or service at the start.
Current information about the route, starting point and status of the nature trail can be found on the City of Espoo's nature trails page .
6. Ekudden Nature Trail – grove forest and sea in Porvoo
The Ekudden nature trail is located just over two kilometers south of the center of Porvoo and is approximately 1.5 kilometers long. It starts at the Tarkis ball field and goes through farmland, groves and further towards coastal cliffs and meadows.
The nature type is different from the barren pine forests of Uusimaa. There are oaks, lindens, mixed forests and coastal environments. A birdwatching tower and information boards make the trail interesting even for those who want to stop often and observe nature.
The route is mostly easy to follow. There are plank bridges on wet sections, but rubber boots or waterproof shoes may be practical during rainy periods. As the path is located in a nature conservation area, conservation regulations apply. Stick to the path and check local regulations before picking, resting or bringing a dog.
Read more about the target area at the City of Porvoo's information on parks and forests .
7. Svinö nature trail – bird cove and old forest
Svinö Nature Trail is a small and easily accessible coastal destination in Porvoo, a couple of kilometers south of the city center. The approximately 1.5 kilometer long trail runs through old spruce forest and makes detours to pine-covered rocks, reed beds and an observation platform.
The path is marked with orange dots. It is mostly easy to navigate, but the planks can be slippery in wet weather. Svinö is suitable for a short nature excursion, bird watching or as a more leisurely trip when you don't want to carry heavy luggage.
There is limited parking at Svinövägen and no public transport directly to the trail according to information from the City of Porvoo. Therefore, plan your transport in advance and do not park on private driveways. Read about Svinö nature trail here .
Public right, nature conservation area and recreation area
In Finland, the right of public access normally allows people to walk in nature, pick berries and edible mushrooms, and temporarily set up camp where it does not cause damage or disturbance. The right does not apply to walking across farmyards, damaging vegetation, or using fire freely.
A nature conservation area has special conservation regulations. There it may be prohibited to leave the path, camp, camp, cycle or move around during certain periods. Nybondas and Ekudden are clear examples where local regulations restrict the right of public access.
A recreation area is an area that is managed for outdoor recreation and often has marked trails, rest areas and toilets. However, this does not mean that all activities are allowed everywhere. Burning should only be done in designated areas and according to current fire warnings and the area's rules. Read more about the right of public access and outdoor etiquette before you go out.
Plan according to weather, surface and daylight
For a short trip, a small daypack , water, lunch, extra layers and first aid are often enough. On a longer trip, you should also have a paper map or downloaded map, a power bank and a headlamp. GPS is not a substitute for planning. Check where the trail starts, how you will get home and whether mobile coverage may be limited.
Ticks are common in southern Finland. Check your skin after your hike and wear clothing that makes them easier to spot. Mosquitoes can be a nuisance near wetlands and lakes, especially in early summer. Dogs should be kept on a leash where required by law and at all times when livestock, birdlife or other visitors may be disturbed.
On coastal destinations, check wind and precipitation. On forest trails, check for snowdrifts, frost, and autumnal darkness. The best equipment is not the lightest on paper, but the one that works when the weather changes.