Hiking Trails

The best way to explore Lahemaa’s nature is to set aside enough time, pack comfortable hiking gear, and embark on discovering the local hiking and nature trails. Lahemaa’s trails vary in difficulty and character – from one-to-two-hour bog loops and the 45 km Oandu-Ikla hiking trail to a rocky kilometer leading to Purekkari Cape, the northernmost tip of mainland Estonia. The forests of Käsmu peninsula invite exploration both on foot and by bike. Lahemaa is also traversed by the E11 long-distance hiking trail, whose Baltic section is known as the Forest Hiking Trail, and which begins in the city of Scheveningen in the Netherlands and ends in Tallinn.

For Lahemaa’s hiking trails, we recommend bringing a guide, whom you can find here.

When venturing into nature, always ensure that your impact on the environment is limited to your presence. Sort any packaging and used napkins according to waste management rules. Keep the hiking trails in Lahemaa clean!

Lahemaa National Park Nature Trails:

Majakivi Hiking Trail
Author: Margus Kontus

Altja Nature and Cultural History Trail | 4.2 km
Beaver Trail | 1 km
Käsmu Nature and Cultural History Trail | 4.2 km
Majakivi-Pikanõmme Nature Trail | 7 km
Oandu Old-Growth Forest Trail | 4.7 km
Oandu Heritage Culture Trail | 3.4 km
Oandu Herbalist’s Trail | 1 km
Ojaäärse Forest Trail | 3.5 km
Sagadi-Oandu Forest Tales Trail | 5.6 km
Tsitre Trees Trail | 1 km
Viru Bog Nature Trail | 3.5 km
Hara Bay Coastal Nature Trail
Mohni Nature and Hiking Trail
Mähu Tip and Purekkari Cape Birdwatching Trails
Pähkneeme Dune Pine Forest and Seashore Trail
Võsu Local History Trails

Lahemaa National Park Hiking Trails:
Käsmu Cycling Trail | 11.6 km
Käsmu Hiking Trail | 15 km
Oandu-Võsu Hiking Trail | 9.5 km

Viewing Platforms:
Majakivi-Pikanõmme Nature Trail
Viru Bog

Birdwatching Towers:
Vihasoo Birdwatching Tower
Viinistu Birdwatching Towers

Oandu nature trail

Lahemaa National Park is Estonia’s oldest and largest national park, where pristine forests, coastal areas, bogs, and historic manors meet. One of the most popular spots in this diverse area is the Oandu Nature Trail.

This 4.7 km long hiking trail winds through various types of forests and natural communities, offering the chance to see old trees, mosses, fungi, and traces of wildlife activity. Along the trail, there are information boards that introduce the development of the forest and the landscape shaped by the Ice Age.

The trail starts at the Oandu Visitor Center, where you can also explore exhibitions and gather information about the region’s nature and forestry. The circular route, which can be completed in about 2 hours, is well-suited for less experienced hikers and is accessible for families or small groups to explore. The Oandu Nature Trail is an ideal day trip from Tallinn or the surrounding area, combining movement, fresh air, and knowledge about Estonia’s nature.

Come to the Oandu Nature Trail – each step brings you closer to experiencing the diversity and tranquility of nature!

Oandu-Ikla hiking trail

The RMK hiking trail is the first hiking route that crosses the entire Estonia.

375 km long journey begins in North Estonia from Lahemaa National Park in Oandu, traverses through the dense forests of Kõrvemaa and one of Europe’s most powerful wetland landscapes – Soomaa National Park.

The RMK hiking trail passes through 6 counties, 2 national parks, and 9 protected areas, ending at the Estonia-Latvia border point in Ikla.

The trail is marked with kilometer posts and directional signs that help to stay on track. The information boards along the trail tell stories about forest management and heritage, culture, and recreation.

Oandu-Võsu hiking trail

Oandu-Võsu hiking trail is located in Oandu Lahemaa National Park in Lääne-Viru County. The 9.5 km long trail starts from the Oandu camping area and heads towards the Võsu camping area. Additional information, maps, and pictures can be found here. 

The Oandu-Võsu hiking trail is the first section of the RMK Oandu-Ikla Hiking Route. The hiking route runs along the ancient Seljaku road through the primeval forests of the former Oandu-Koljaku nature reserve and is easily accessible both on foot and by bike.

Before heading to the trail, it is worth visiting the Oandu Nature Center exhibitions and permanent exhibition; you can also get maps and information about the trail from the RMK Oandu information point. You can leave your car in the parking lot of the Oandu Nature Center before heading to the trail.

Ojakivi trail

In the heart of Lahemaa National Park, a mesmerizing journey through dense primeval forests awaits you. The Ojakivi trail leads to a protected giant boulder, offering a 5 km round trip to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the forest.

The destination of the hike is Ojakivi – Estonia’s 14th largest and Lahemaa National Park’s third giant boulder. Its circumference reaches 30 meters and its height is 6 meters, making the stone an awe-inspiring natural monument. Like many other giant boulders in Northern Estonia, Ojakivi can also be admired from above, experiencing its impressive size and the power of the landscape.

This trail is ideal for nature and hiking enthusiasts looking for a peaceful stroll, as well as an educational experience in discovering Estonia’s geological heritage.

Palmse monastery stones

Palmse monastery stones are located on the right side of the road when coming from Viitna, behind the Palmse manor wall in the forest park.

Here you can find 14 stones with a circumference of over 10 meters and many smaller boulder stones, which were formed during the melting of the continental ice as larger boulders disintegrated. They are named after the monastery that stood in the same place in the 15th century.

According to legend, the most powerful nun went to meet the devil and turned into stones. According to folk traditions, they may be petrified devils who were peeking at the nuns in the convent. A third story tells of how the heavenly father turned the nuns into stones for their sins.

Paris health and ski trails

You can move along the health trails of Paris year-round – in winter, groomed ski trails await you, and in summer, there are pleasant running and cycling circuits. If you love winter activities, try the 5 km long athletic training trail, of which 1.6 km is illuminated – perfect for those dim evenings. For those who enjoy a more leisurely pace, a 6–10 km hiking circuit is ideal. Skiing pleasures are also offered by ski circuits of 3, 6, and 10 km.

In warm weather, you can challenge yourself on a 5 km running or cycling trail and have fun at the disc golf park with 18 baskets.

You can conveniently rent everything you need from the nearby Paris holiday village – there you will find hiking, skiing, and skating equipment, bicycles, disc golf discs, and much more.

Come and enjoy an active holiday in Paris – the joy of movement is yours!

Pedassaare hiking trail

The Pedassaare hiking trail makes a loop around the northern part of the Kolga Bay, which is unique in many ways, running along the beach. It is the most forested and highest island in Kolga Bay, notable for its sharply deepening sandy beach. The trail is located in the Kolga Bay landscape protection area, and along the way, you will encounter 11 points of interest.

Next to the trail, there is a covered fireplace with camping options. Romantics will find a cozy and distinctive forest house waiting for them. On the first floor, there is a fireplace room with tables and benches, and a small room with sauna facilities, while the second floor has a sleeping area.

You can reach Pedassaare by boat from Salmistu harbor, where you can also leave your car for an additional fee.

Pony ride at Arma Riding Center

Pony rides are available for both very small children and those with the size of an Estonian horse. We welcome children to the pony ride who would like to try working with ponies and are not yet attending real riding lessons.
We start by cleaning the pony and show how saddling is done. The child can participate in everything.
Depending on the weather and the season, we will take a ride around the stable.

Program duration is approximately 30 minutes

Interesting to know:

The horse uniquely influences the body and mind of a person with its entire being. Riding improves overall physical ability, coordination, and balance, promotes good posture, develops fine motor skills, and relaxes.

Porkuni Energy Trail

Energy Trail runs through places where one can feel wonderful and restore their vitality.

The trail is 1.7 km long and starts and ends at the Paemuuseum near Küngassaare. The Energy Trail circles around the northwest end of Porkuni Lake, then heads into the Porkuni park forest.

In the park forest dating back to the manor era, you won’t find regularity, but here and there, foreign trees and shrubs from the manor period have been preserved. The Energy Trail‘s main attraction is the old stone quarry of Porkuni. You can also explore the source of the Valgejõgi River, the park’s natural clearing, a karst sinkhole, and the location of the shaking spruce.

The trail is equipped with information boards.

Pure Water Theme Park at Metsamõisa Farm

Discover the Pure Water Theme Park at Metsamõisa farm – a place where you can truly understand how pure groundwater is formed and why water is the foundation of life.
Here, you don’t have to experience nature in a hurry or “consume” it. You can come to visit calmly and safely – the Sensory Garden and the paths with solid surfaces and crushed gravel are suitable for movement with a wheelchair, walker, walking frame, or cane, and are also convenient for visitors with strollers.

You can look forward to:
• Sensory Garden and accessible paths in the midst of nature
• Glass kayak and glass SUP – see underwater while paddling
• Guided hikes on foot, on snowshoes, or by bike + rolling trips
• MOBO and orienteering, disc golf, and archery range
• Workshops on coping skills/crisis readiness, picnic, and group catering
• Accommodation in forest cabins

Come with family, friends, or your work team – and let nature provide you with peace, joy, and a good “aha!” moment all at once.

Pure Water Theme Park excursion "Getting Started in Nature" with a nature guide

The adventure trip “Getting Started in Nature” is for you if you want real skills, not just “I watched it on YouTube.” It’s pleasantly humorous, practical, and a bit adventurous – just the right amount of “real life” without excessive drama.

What will you actually do and learn?

  • build a shelter with your team from branches (yes, it really stands!)
  • safely light a fire (the forest is not a barbecue area – let’s do it wisely)
  • brew delicious herbal tea from wild plants
  • if desired, prepare soup over the fire
  • practice how to act if you get lost or have to manage without electricity and water
  • get simple tips on how to think in a crisis so that instead of “panic,” a calm action plan emerges at ubari.ee

Suitable for youth, families, friends, and work teams – especially if you want to combine teamwork, movement, and a sense of “let’s get it done.” Children and pets are also welcome on the trip.

Purekkari Peninsula and camping area

Purekkari Peninsula is the northernmost point of mainland Estonia.

The 1.5 km long rocky and boulder-rich peninsula is located in Lahemaa National Park. The peninsula ends with a small island that can only be accessed when the water is low. During the flowering and autumn fruiting season, the spiny bushes – dog roses – catch the eye. In autumn, many migratory birds can be seen here, making it a popular birdwatching spot.

Near the peninsula are former military facilities and the Purekkari camping area, which is equipped with a fire pit, a shelter, and information boards.

Note! The road to the parking lot is narrow, and a large bus cannot access it.

Rummu bog hike on snowshoes with a nature guide for nature enthusiasts

Rummu bog snowshoe hike for nature lovers – with a nature guide, a bit of fun, and plenty of “aha!” moments.

On the hike, we will get to know the stages of bog development, learn about the bog ecosystem and the relationships between species, and discuss why the bog is our “silent superhero”: it retains water, preserves biodiversity, and keeps our minds clear. We will move on snowshoes in the bog for about 1.5 km, and the total length of the hike is 4-5 km – a suitable distance for families, friends, and work teams (team spirit comes surprisingly easily in the bog!).

Put on layers, bring warm gloves, and take your curiosity with you. Depending on the weather and the season, the bog can offer wide views, a carpet of moss, fresh tracks, or simply luxurious silence.

We follow the “Good Practices of Snowshoe Tourism“: snowshoe hikes in protected wetlands do not take place from April 23 to June 24. The hike is by reservation only; the meeting point will be specified upon booking.

The hike is family-friendly and pet-friendly. Book a time, bring a friend along, and come to the bog – you’ll leave with a good mood.

Rutka hiking trail

Enjoy the beautiful nature, pick berries and mushrooms. You can travel the trail by bike, skis, or on foot. Once you reach Ohepalus, you can continue hiking to the Udriku lakes or further to Mõndavere, Viitna, or Lahemaa.

The first 1.5 km section of the trail is marshy, but after crossing the Valgejõgi, you will reach the Rutka mountains, where a good road runs along the ridge of the hills. This part of the trail is located in the Ohepalu nature reserve.


The trail is also called the Tapa-Ohepalu hiking trail.


Sagadi Manor Park and Dendropark

Sagadi Manor is inseparably linked to the manor park with its mighty ancient trees. The park is home to the thickest service tree and oaks, which at 33 meters are among the tallest in Estonia.

In the fruit orchard established on the eastern side of the manor, over 150 apple, pear, plum, and cherry trees grow, while the collection garden at the edge of the orchard features various irises, lilies, peonies, poppies, and dozens of different rose varieties.

In 1985, a 5.1-hectare dendropark was established on the western side of the manor complex, where over 120 species of trees and shrubs have been planted.

The Sagadi manor park and dendropark are open year-round to all interested visitors.

Sagadi-Oandu Forest Tales Trail

Step into the fairy tales of Estonia between the forests of Sagadi and Oandu!

Do you know what stories were told about the forest in ancient times? The Sagadi-Oandu Forest Tales Trail invites you on a journey through ancient traditions that narrate the values of our ancestors and their relationship with nature. It marks both the year of folk tales and the 110th anniversary of nature conservation in Estonia.

The 8 km long natural walking path runs between Sagadi and Oandu, connecting various forest sections and introducing folk tales and local traditions related to the forest. Along the way, you can read from information boards or listen to old stories in both Estonian and English via QR codes.

The Forest Tales Trail is suitable for exploration by visitors of all ages – during snow-free times, the trail is accessible with a stroller and wheelchair.

Let the fairy tales of Estonia guide you and come discover the enchantment of the forest through tradition!

Seal watching trips for four in the Malusi archipelago

We invite you to a seal watching tour with family or friends!

Seal watching is an exciting adventure, as the opportunity to see these wonderful and curious marine animals in their natural habitat is rare. Seals are playful and often come close to the boat, providing extraordinary moments as if on nature’s stage. In addition, you can enjoy beautiful coastal views while observing the seals.

The largest seal area in Harjumaa is located on the Malusi Islands. Come and enjoy the sea, seals, and a nice snack during the boat trip. The observation takes place only from the boat to avoid disturbing the animals too much.

The group size is 4 people and the duration of the observation trip is up to 2.5 hours.

The observation includes:

  • Boat ride
  • Life jackets
  • Light snacks and drinks

Note! Be sure to bring your binoculars. For an additional fee, it is also possible to visit other islands in Kolga Bay and walk there.

Sheep and Herding Dogs Farm Tammistu Sheep

The Tammistu Sheep Association is a breeder of sheep and sheepdogs located in Tammistu village on the Juminda Peninsula in Lahemaa. The sheep maintain the coastal meadows of the peninsula, and the dogs assist in herding and protecting the sheep.

During your visit to the farm, you will gain new knowledge about sheep and herding dogs: how sheepdogs work and even try your hand at being a dog handler. What is life really like for a sheep? Of course, you will have the chance to pet both the dogs and the sheep. Additionally, there is an option to book a guided tour of the coastal meadows with local folklore stories.

Snowshoe hike in Kõnnu Suursoo "In the Footsteps of the Ice Age"

Walking on snowshoes in the bog and swaying there creates an otherworldly feeling – you are essentially walking on water.

Kõnnu Suursoo was formed as a result of the Ice Age. The landscape surrounding the bog is such that the area is also referred to as “the Switzerland of Estonia.” The observation tower offers stunning views of the pools and the colorful bog mosaic.

The hike includes: guide service, snowshoes, gaiters, snacks, and drinks. If you want to experience the beauty and charm of the bog away from the boardwalks and learn more about the bog, then come on a snowshoe hike with Wanderlust!

Snowshoe hike in Lahemaa National Park

The best way to hike in the Estonian bogs is with snowshoes. Snowshoes are like snowshoes – only you use them on soft bog surfaces during non-snowy times. The springy and soft ground, unique bog landscapes, puddles, special plants, and bog legends make snowshoe hiking an unforgettable experience. Anyone who can hike on foot can manage a snowshoe hike.

Lahemaa National Park is known for its bogs, and there we will hike in the puddle-rich Viru bog
. This hike is suitable for those who want to quickly and easily gain the experience of snowshoe hiking.