Hiking in South East Finland

With only a 2 hour drive from the capital of Finland, Helsinki is the beautiful Repovesi National Park where this 33km hike starts. Starting in the Repovesi national park and heading to North to Mantyharju. This trail can be completed travelling both ways. 

Starting at any of the carparks at the national park you head north following the main trail which is marked with orange markings on trees and posts. The hike can take as long as you like but being 33 km its good to take two days and take in the amazing views and beautiful lakes. Along the way are huts where there are fire pits with cook tops and compost toilets, but be careful to take bug spray as the mosquitos can be plentiful at some points of the year. I would also advise to bring a tent for this reason, as it is possible to sleep in the Huts but you might be eaten alive. 

There is also two spots to replenish your water supply but be sure to bring enough for the whole trip just in case. With a easy going trail with only a few large hills, this is a reasonable hike with amazing lakes and scenery. The hike ends at the sports hall in Mantyharju and then is only a short walk to the town centre where you can then catch a taxi or bus back to the national park. it is also possible to rent kayaks and paddle back down to Repovesi, but this is a 50 km route.

Maps for the hike and national park can be bought at park or any R-kiosi close by.