Kaihu Nature Trail in Mikkeli

This 2.5 km hiking trail a stone’s throw away from Mikkeli city centre is an ideal spot for a day out in the nature without the need to travel far from the city. This trail is also worth visiting for geology enthusiasts, as there are Saimaa Geopark signposts along the route with information about the local sights, such as the 11 000-year-old Kaihunharju esker. There is also easy access from the route to the nearby Urpola Nature Centre - which has several interactive exhibits about the surrounding nature - and Pursiala giant's kettle, a huge glacial pothole estimated of being more than 9 000 years old.

Easy to navigate terrain makes this trail suitable for all ages. The paths being mostly smooth sand and asphalt, this trail also partly wheelchair accessible. After the walk travelers can take a dip in the lake at the beach along the route or at nearby Mikkelipuisto Park, which also has a picnic area, free-to-use BBQ spots, restaurant services, and a model garden.

For travelers looking from more activities in the area, nearby there is also the famous Kenkävero vicarage, which offers vintage glamour, excellent local food, beautiful gardens and plenty of shopping opportunities. During summertime you can feed the sheep and chickens and visit Santa's secret hideaway.

The easiest way to access Kaihu Nature Trail is from the Kaihu shelter parking lot at Pursialankatu 5 in Mikkeli, but there are also several other places where one can step onto the trail. For visitors on foot, there's only about a 1,2 km walk from Mikkeli centre to the trail. More information and maps available by clicking the "Website" link.