Hiking & outdoor recreationLength4.1 km
Duration(2-4 hours)
Degree of difficultyHard
Hiidenkierros is a partly challenging day-trip destination that suits both beginners and experienced hikers. The trail rewards visitors with magnificent views of the Hiidenportti Gorge, where steep edges offer sights of dark ponds at the bottom of the ravine. Along Hiidenkierros, there are two campfire sites, one of which is located at the starting point at Palolampi, equipped with a well. The trail is accessible year-round – for hiking in summer and snowshoeing in winter. Mountain biking is not prohibited, but due to the extremely rocky terrain, it is not recommended. For those hiking with dogs, it is recommended to walk the trail clockwise, as it is easier for dogs to climb up the steep stairs in the gorge than to descend them.
Circle trailThe recommended direction of travel is clockwise.
Dry toiletRemember to bring toilet paper.
Remember to bring a trash bagThere are no waste bins on the trail. Bring along your own trash bag and take your waste out with you when leaving.
Campfire siteAlways check for any wildfire warnings in effect before making a fire.
Water pointAt the starting point at Palolampi.
Camping permittedCamping is only permitted in the immediate vicinity of marked rest areas and campfire sites and huts.
No winter maintenanceThe trail can be explored in winter, for instance, by skiing or snowshoeing.
Contact information
Starting pointPalolampi parking area
The marked trail leads from the Palolampi information point to the Hiidenportti Gorge.The distance to the gorge is 1.3 kilometers, and it is traversed along a somewhat challenging path. The trail is rocky and root-filled, with some elevation changes.
The Hiidenkierros trail gradually ascends to the top of the gorge.The route passes through the bottom of the gorge and climbs stairs to the other side of the cliffs. The steel stairs have rubber guards for dogs.
From the gorge path runs along the edge of the gorge cliffs for about one kilometre. The Porttilampi lean-to shelter offers a perfect place for a break and a snack.
From Porttilampi the Hiidenkierros Trail comes back the same trail for about one kilometer and continues towards the Kovasinvaara hill. There are no buildings left on the hill, but the meadows, birch forests and heaps of stones give you a glimpse of times gone by. Eventually, the trail leads to the meadow at Kovasinvaara.
The last section of the trail runs back to Palolampi. This section is somewhat demanding as in some places the descent to Palolampi is rather steep.
End pointPalolampi parking area
End point