Outdoor destinations
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Looking for the best winter hiking destinations in Central Finland? Here are Metsähallitus’ outdoor experts’ tips for walking, skiing, snowshoeing and campfire sites.
In Leivonmäki, Pyhä-Häkki, Salamajärvi and Southern Konnevesi National Parks, walking trails are not maintained or ploughed during winter. However, some popular routes become compacted by visitors and form walkable paths. Weather conditions must always be taken into account. After heavy snowfall, trails may be difficult to follow, and under certain conditions they may become very slippery.
The routes most likely to remain walkable throughout the winter are:
In Leivonmäki National Park, during snowy periods there is a classic-style recreational ski trail maintained by the Municipality of Joutsa and the Friends of Leivonmäki National Park Association.
Salamajärvi is a popular destination for wilderness ski touring, especially off-track skiing. Longer ski expeditions with a pulk are also possible in the area.
If a parking area is maintained in winter and a campfire site is nearby, a walkable path between them usually becomes compacted by visitors. Information about winter maintenance can be found by clicking the parking icon on the map or by checking the site’s “Directions” page.
Campfire sites that are easily accessible even in winter include:
Central Finland’s nature destinations do not have designated snowshoeing routes. You may snowshoe anywhere while respecting movement restrictions. The easiest option is to follow summer hiking trails. Please note that snowshoeing in deep snow is physically demanding, so beginners should choose short routes. The rugged and steep terrain of Southern Konnevesi is particularly challenging and can even be dangerous; therefore, Southern Konnevesi National Park is not recommended for snowshoeing.
When planning your snowshoe trip, start by checking the winter maintenance of parking areas by clicking the parking icon on the map or by reading the site’s “Directions” information.
Extra caution is needed when visiting Southern Konnevesi in winter. The area has significant elevation changes, and summer trails run through steep terrain. Slopes can be dangerously slippery during winter.
Leivonmäki National Park
Pyhä-Häkki National Park
Salamajärvi National Park
Southern Konnevesi National Park
