Herajärvi Trail

The Kiehisen Tour is considered a challenging hike, rated as 'difficult' due to significant elevation differences, steep stairs, rocky paths, and exposed tree roots. While a good basic fitness level is generally sufficient, hikers should have fundamental outdoor skills from day hikes.

The Kiehisen Tour has multiple starting points, including Pirunkirkko, Seppälä, and Rykiniemi. Parking availability will depend on your chosen starting point, so it's advisable to check specific parking areas near these locations within Koli National Park.

The tour takes you through some of Koli National Park's less-explored areas, offering beautiful vistas of Herajärvi Lake and the fells opposite. You'll also hike through serene pine forests and traditional meadows. The park is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, rolling hills, and panoramic views, which transform beautifully with the seasons.

Yes, a notable feature is the Herajoki River crossing, which involves a wading cable. Its difficulty varies with water levels, being higher during spring thaw and lowest in the driest part of summer. If you prefer to avoid the river crossing, you can bypass it by hiking an additional 1.7 km over the Herajoentie bridge.

The best time depends on your preferences. Summer offers wildflowers and generally lower water levels for the river crossing. Autumn provides vibrant displays of red, orange, and yellow foliage. Be aware that spring thaw can lead to higher water levels at the Herajoki River crossing.

Generally, dogs are welcome in Koli National Park but must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other hikers. Always check the latest regulations from the park authority before your visit.

Koli National Park typically does not require entrance fees or permits for day hiking on marked trails like the Kiehisen Tour. However, if you plan to stay overnight in rental huts or designated camping areas, specific fees or reservations may apply. Always check the official Koli National Park website for the most current information.

Along the Kiehisen Tour, you can enjoy the View of Lake Pielinen from Vesivaara. The trail also passes by the managed meadow of Turusenaho, and connects to the Lakkala and Ylä-Murhi rental huts. You can also reach the stunning Rykiniemi Campsite and Rykiniemi beach on Lake Pielinen.

Yes, the Kiehisen Tour intersects with sections of other well-known paths. Notably, it covers a significant portion of the Herajärven kierros trail and also passes through parts of the Pirunkirkko trail.

Given its 'difficult' rating, significant elevation changes, and challenging terrain including steep stairs and a wading cable river crossing, the Kiehisen Tour is generally not recommended for beginners or very young children. It requires a good basic fitness level and some prior hiking experience.

Koli National Park is geologically remarkable. Its quartzite hills are among Finland's oldest rock formations, dating back nearly three billion years. Hiking here means walking upon some of the oldest exposed bedrock in continental Europe.