The best walks and hikes around Nurmes

Nurmes offers a diverse network of around 15 hiking trails, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix of easy, moderate, and challenging routes to explore the region's unique landscapes.

Hiking in Nurmes provides a rich tapestry of natural beauty. You'll encounter rolling ridge landscapes, extensive forests—including bright ridge forests and old, moss-covered woodlands—and numerous pristine lakes. Unique mire ecosystems and untouched wilderness areas are also characteristic of the region, with some viewpoints offering 'miniature Koli-like landscapes'.

Yes, Nurmes has several easy trails perfect for beginners or families. The Lakeside Trail loop from Saramo is an easy 5.9 km path offering scenic lake views. The Rantaraitti path, a 4.5 km route around Nurmes Kauppala, is also family-friendly with playgrounds and beaches, providing illuminated shore paths and historical information.

For those seeking a moderate challenge, the Peurajärvi Tour is a popular 11.4 km trail known for its light-colored ridge forests and clear-watered lakes. Another excellent option is the Portiilampi lean-to – View of the lake loop from Hiidenportti National Park, a 9.7 km route through varied forest and lake landscapes.

Yes, for experienced trekkers looking for a more demanding route, the Snow-Covered Moorland Trail loop from Kalliojärvi is a difficult 20.4 km hike. This trail offers a significant challenge and a chance to explore more rugged terrain.

The hiking trails in Nurmes are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 50 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse terrain, the serene atmosphere of the forests and lakes, and the well-maintained paths that make exploring the region a rewarding experience.

Many trails in Nurmes are designed as loops, offering convenient circular routes. Examples include the Lakeside Trail loop from Saramo, the Portiilampi lean-to – View of the lake loop from Hiidenportti National Park, and the Snow-Covered Moorland Trail loop from Kalliojärvi. These allow you to start and end your hike at the same point without retracing your steps.

Absolutely. Nurmes offers several locations with stunning views. The Toivontorni viewing tower on Kohtavaara hill provides panoramic vistas reminiscent of Koli National Park. Jurttivaara is another area known for its breathtaking scenery over a hilly landscape, perfect for those seeking scenic overlooks.

Yes, Nurmes serves as an excellent base for exploring several national parks within approximately an hour's drive. These include Patvinsuo National Park, known for its ancient forests and marshlands; the iconic Koli National Park; Hiidenportti National Park; and Tiilikkajärvi National Park, all offering extensive hiking opportunities.

Nurmes is rich in unique natural features. Keep an eye out for the distinctive ridge landscapes, such as those in Raesärkät and Peurajärvi, and the old, moss-covered forests. The region also features pristine lakes, including the expansive Lake Pielinen, and unique mire landscapes. You might even encounter rugged rock formations like the Kärnänkivi glacial erratic boulder.

For those seeking peace and quiet and a true wilderness experience, the Mujejärvi routes, including the 9.7 km Tetrijärvi route, are highly recommended. These trails showcase wild landscapes, pristine wilderness lakes, and old-growth forests, providing a profound sense of solitude and natural immersion.

The Rantaraitti path around Nurmes Kauppala not only offers scenic lake views but also provides historical information along its illuminated shore paths, blending natural beauty with insights into the local heritage. Additionally, Kohtavaara hill features a nature and history trail leading to the Toivontorni viewing tower.