The best walks and hikes around Puula

The landscape around Puula is characterized by its diverse and wild natural beauty, shaped by the Ice Age. You'll find rugged cliff shores, block fields, and sheltered sandy beaches. The trails often wind through vast expanses of dense forests, including rocky pine forests, old-growth areas, and aspen or birch stands. Terrain varies from gentle slopes to more rugged sections, offering options for different skill levels.

Yes, the Puula region offers several easy trails perfect for beginners or families. For example, the Suurolan luontopolku is an easy 6.8 km path that takes about 1 hour 45 minutes to complete. Another great option is the Uimala loop from Kangasniemi, a shorter 3.95 km easy trail.

Puula is rich in unique natural features. Keep an eye out for distinctive mushroom-like cliff formations and boulders (raukki) carved by water erosion, such as the famous Altar Stone. Other notable raukki include the perforated Reikäkivi Stone and the tilted Heart of Kankariluoto islet. The region also boasts scenic viewpoints from hills like Korppivuori, and old-growth forests in areas like Keronvuori.

Yes, there are several circular routes available. A popular moderate option is Kalkkeron kierros, an 11.3 km trail that offers varied forest and lake views. For an easier loop, consider the Leppäselkä Bird Tower – Suurola Nature Trail loop from Suurolanlahti, which is 5.1 km long and takes about 1 hour 20 minutes.

The hiking routes in Puula are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.5 stars. Hikers often praise the diverse natural beauty, the extensive lake archipelago, and the unique Ice Age formations that make the trails so distinctive.

While most trails are easy, the region does offer moderate options. The Kalkkeron kierros is a moderate 11.3 km trail that provides a longer hiking experience, typically taking around 3 hours to complete. Additionally, the approximately 40 km Häkkilän polku Trail near Lake Kyyvesi, though not listed in this guide, winds through old-growth forests and can be divided into shorter segments for varied challenges.

Yes, the Puula and Kyyvesi Nature Reserves are excellent for hiking. The Kuhmalahden Nature Reserve is particularly highlighted as a must-see destination with unique ecosystems, offering peaceful walks along designated trails where rare bird species can be observed. The Häkkilän polku Trail, for instance, is located within the old-growth forest of Keronvuori in the Kyyvesi area.

The Puula region offers beautiful hiking experiences throughout the warmer months. Spring brings fresh greenery, while summer provides long daylight hours. Autumn is particularly stunning with vibrant fall colors in the dense forests. While winter hiking is possible, conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice, so it's best suited for experienced hikers with appropriate gear.

Yes, the area provides hiking services to enhance your experience. You can find designated campfire sites, often with firewood provided (though self-chopping may be needed), lean-to shelters, and cooking sites. Remember to bring trash bags as there are no waste bins, and always keep pets on a leash.

This guide features 5 distinct hiking routes around Puula, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, allowing you to explore the region's diverse landscapes.

Yes, the Hirvensalmi loop from Hirvensalmi is an easy 3.59 km trail that starts and ends in Hirvensalmi, offering a convenient option for local exploration.