Hiking & outdoor recreationLength4 km
Duration(1-2 h)
Degree of difficultyMedium
Despite its name, the Harjureitti Trail (Esker route) is more of a network of routes. The Harjureitti Trail brings together Punkaharju's best trails as well as traditional tourist destinations and newer offerings. On the Harjureitti Trail, you will be hiking in the national landscape of Punkaharju, with its rich cultural history. You can take a break from hiking and stop at a café or museum. The trail is easy to hike, but elevations in esker terrain can vary widely in some places. Stone steps make it easier to access the steepest sections. Part of the trail follows along the Topeliuksenpolku Trail. In spite of the trail markings, it is a good idea to follow the map while hiking the trail, as there are a large number of other trails crossing through the area.
Remember to bring a trash bag
Camping not permitted
No dry toilet
No water point
No winter maintenance
Contact information
Starting pointVaahersalontie 44, null Punkaharju
Trail markings: Orange paint trail markings on trees. Wooden signposts at intersections.
There are multiple starting points on the trail. For example, you can start out near Lusto or Hotel Kruunupuisto. Starting point addresses: Lusto - Suomen Metsämuseo, Lustontie 1, Punkaharju. Hotelli Kruunupuisto, Vaahersalontie 44, Punkaharju. Lähtöpiste sijaitsee tien toisella puolella sijaitsevalla pysäköintialueella.
The trail runs one way, but it is possible to change direction by, for example, connecting to the Topelius Trail. The approximately 500-metre section south of Hotel Punkaharju also offers hikers an opportunity to choose whether to follow along the shoreline of Kaarnalahti or take the original, unpaved esker road on the esker.
The starting point at the Kruunupuisto parking area has a large information board with a map of the area.
The section of the Harjureitti Trail from the Kruunupuisto parking area to the Valkialampi viewpoint (approx. 300 meters) is wheelchair accessible. The trail ascends very gently uphill and has a smooth surface. For about 10 meters, the slope is around 9–10%, which is why the trail is classified as a demanding accessible nature trail. An assistant is recommended for wheelchair users.
There is a viewpoint with benches for resting at the end of the accessible trail, by the Valkialampi Pond.
The part of the trail following the Topeliuksen polku Trail is also classified as a demanding accessible trail and is therefore suitable for prams and wheelchairs (with an assistant).
There is an accessible table-bench set on the Valkialampi Isthmus, where you can enjoy a bite with a view over the lake and the pond. Along the trail, you can find several benches and information boards that showcase the esker area’s eventful history.
Although there is no actual winter maintenance on the trail, all the trail sections are usually trampled smooth in winter.
The trail crosses Harjutie Road, which has a speed limit of 50 km/h. There are also cyclists on the Topeliuksen polku Trail.
End pointLustontie 1, null Punkaharju