Hämeen Ilvesreitti

Trail Descriptions:

Riihimäki Riutta – Loppi Hirvijärvi (12 km) The trail starts at the Riutta sports park in Riihimäki and passes through diverse terrain, including forest paths, forest roads, and roadside stretches. The landscape mainly consists of dense forests, with rocky sections and steep parts. Motorcycle tracks can be found on the Riihimäki side, and some paths may become grassy in summer. There is a connection to Paalijärvi beach, which features parking, a campfire site, and a toilet.

Hirvijärvi – Loppi (11 km) This section follows forest roads, paths, and walkways. The terrain includes beautiful coniferous forests and is well-marked. The Loppi urban area offers a grocery shop and restaurants.

Loppi – Kalamaja (13 km) The route primarily consists of forest paths, although some sections are overgrown and challenging. A map app is recommended. In the Komio Nature Reserve, the Samo and Pikku-Samo trails are easy to navigate. The Kalamaja rest area includes parking and a lean-to shelter.

Sähkönokka – Räyskälä – Iso-Melkutin (6 km) and connection to Poronpolku (3 km) Starting from the Sähkönokka beach, the route passes through the Räyskälä Aviation Centre. The paths are well-maintained and clearly marked. This section connects eastward to Poronpolku, including Pirunkallio and Rautakoskentie. The area is excellent for mountain biking. Iso-Melkutin, a popular clearwater lake, has two lean-to shelters along its surrounding ridge trail. The lake offers activities for both hikers and divers.

Iso-Melkutin – Liesjärvi National Park (20 km) The trail meanders through forests and ridges, leading to Liesjärvi National Park with its beautiful spruce forests. Lean-tos in Kivijärvi and the National Park provide good resting opportunities.

Kivijärvi Loop (26 km) This long circular trail with two rest stops allows for peaceful hiking amidst forest-surrounded lake landscapes.

Liesjärvi National Park – Ruostejärvi (30 km) This connecting route crosses the Kyynäränharju ridge, which links the northern and southern parts of the national park. The ridge offers stunning views surrounded by lakes. The Ruostejärvi area features diverse trails and services. The Eerikkilä Sports & Outdoors Centre near the Ruostejärvi recreational area provides accommodation and dining options. The trail branches into three directions from Ruostejärvi.

Piippurinsuo Loop (6 km) Located on the eastern edge of Torronsuo, this nearly 6-km circular route can be accessed from Ruostejärvi Nature Recreation Area.

Ruostejärvi – Saari Folk Park (15 km) An easy path passes the Eerikkilä Sports & Outdoors Centre, leading through beautiful spruce forests, wetlands, and rural landscapes to Kaukolanharju. The trail is well-marked.

Räyskälä – Pääjärvi (10 km) From Räyskälä, the trail continues to Pääjärvi, passing through lovely pine forests and ponds. The trail is well-maintained but can become grassy in summer. A stream crossing may require walking your bike over a bridge.

Pääjärvi Loop (8 km) This circular route follows forest paths onto a narrow, lake-bordered ridge. It features some steep climbs and rocky sections. A shorter 4,5-km Kynnysniemi loop offers a lighter option. Both routes start from Pääjärvi parking area, which has a toilet and a campfire site.

Pääjärvi – Renko (23 km) Best visited before midsummer or in late autumn, this trail can become grassy in summer due to infrequent use. It is clearly marked, and navigation with a map app is easy. Recommended starting points include Hämeen Härkätie information points like Lietsa, Pitkäjärvi, or Ruokojärvi.