The Best Hikes in Estonia
Are you thinking of heading to Estonia for a hiking adventure? If so, you’ll want to get ready to uncover some of the country’s most stunning trails, from serene forests to rugged coastlines and mystical bogs.
Estonia’s diverse landscapes promise a mix of tranquility and breathtaking views, which makes it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Regardless of whether you’re into leisurely strolls or challenging hikes, Estonia has something special in store for anyone who is seeking an unforgettable outdoor experience like yourself.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the six very best hikes that you can enjoy in Estonia.
A Note On Appropriate Gear and Clothing
Here’s what you should remember to pack when you go hiking in Estonia:
- Footwear
- Make sure you’ve got sturdy hiking shoes or boots, especially if you’re hitting up trails through forests or the boggy landscapes of places like Soomaa National Park. If you’re planning coastal walks, a comfy pair of trail shoes with good grip will do the job nicely.
- Clothing
- Estonia’s weather can surprise you, so it’s all about layers. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, throw on a warm mid-layer or fleece after that, and then top it off with a lightweight and waterproof jacket. In summer, light, breathable clothes and a hat to shield you from the sun are musts. As it gets cooler, you can pack gloves, a cozy hat, and a windproof jacket, especially if you’re hiking along windy shores.
- Backpack Essentials
- Grab a comfy backpack to stash your water, snacks, and spare layers. Some trails might not have amenities, so bring along a reusable water bottle, a basic first-aid kit, and a map or GPS to keep you on track. Don’t forget bug spray for those pesky insects, especially in forested or marshy areas.
- Other Essentials
- If you’re hiking over boggy ground, trekking poles can be a lifesaver for keeping your balance on the boardwalks. Even on cloudy days, remember sunscreen for those coastal paths. And it’s always handy to have a rain cover for your backpack handy, just in case the weather takes a turn.
Now let’s dive into the top six hikes that Estonia offers:
Hike #1: Lahemaa National Park – Oandu to Palmse
Lahemaa National Park, one of Estonia’s most stunning natural treasures, offers a peaceful escape into the country’s pristine landscapes. This hike takes you from the Oandu to Palmse, leading you through dense forests, along tranquil rivers, and past charming historic estates.
It’s a hike where nature and history come together, offering the best of both worlds.
Difficulty/Recommended Fitness Level
This hike is moderate, suitable for those with a good level of fitness and some prior hiking experience. There are a few uphill sections, but nothing too challenging, and the trails are well-marked and maintained, so you can focus on enjoying the surroundings.
Distance
The trail is approximately 6.5 kilometers (4 miles) one way, which makes it a great half-day adventure for those looking to get outside without spending all day on the trail.
Elevation Gain
The elevation gain is modest, with around 150 meters (500 feet) of ascent. The trail offers steady but gentle climbs, and it provides scenic views as you move through the park.
Start and End Point
The hike begins at the Oandu Visitor Center, which is a perfect starting point with parking and useful information about the park. You’ll finish at Palmse Manor, where you can explore the estate and take in the history of the area.
Unique/Interesting Points/Cultural or Historical Points of Note
One of the highlights of this hike is the combination of nature and history. As you walk through the park, you’ll come across old farmhouses, the ruins of traditional Estonian buildings, and a glimpse into the country’s rural past.
The surrounding nature is equally impressive, with dense forests, peaceful streams, and rich biodiversity. Keep an eye out for birds and wildlife as you explore, and don’t forget to stop at Palmse Manor, where you can enjoy a leisurely tour of the estate.
Hike #2: Kõrvemaa Nature Reserve – Pahkla to Aegviidu
The Kõrvemaa Nature Reserve is one of Estonia’s hidden gems, and it offers a wild and untouched landscape that’s perfect for hiking. The Pahkla to Aegviidu trail takes you through the heart of the reserve, passing through tranquil forests, bogs, and even some peaceful lakes. This hike gives you a real feel of the Estonian wilderness.
Difficulty/Recommended Fitness Level
This trail is considered moderate and is best suited for those of you who are comfortable with a bit of elevation and longer distances. While it’s not too difficult, there are a few uneven sections and some boggy areas, so sturdy footwear is a must. If you’ve done a few hikes before, this will feel like a rewarding adventure!
Distance
The trail stretches for around 14 kilometers (8.7 miles), which makes it a great full-day hike for those who are ready to explore a bit deeper into Estonia’s nature.
Elevation Gain
You’ll encounter a modest 200 meters (650 feet) of elevation gain, with gradual climbs that take you through different ecosystems, from forested hills to open bogs. The terrain is varied, which keeps things interesting.
Start and End Point
The hike kicks off at the Pahkla car park, where you’ll find a signposted trail leading you through the reserve. The endpoint is in Aegviidu, which is a small village that offers some great local spots to grab a bite and relax after your adventure.
Unique/Interesting Points/Cultural or Historical Points of Note
This hike showcases the best of Estonia’s varied ecosystems. You’ll get to pass through parts of the reserve that feel totally untouched, with ancient forests and bogs that are home to rare plants and wildlife. There’s also a rich cultural history here: Aegviidu, the endpoint of the hike, has served as a key location in Estonia’s rail history, being a stop along the famous Tallinn-Tartu railway.
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Hike #3: Karula National Park – Põhja-Kõnnu Trail
For those of you who want to immerse themselves in the heart of Estonia’s countryside, the Põhja-Kõnnu Trail in Karula National Park is a stunning option. Known for its rolling hills and lush forests, this hike is perfect if you want a peaceful but slightly challenging adventure.
Difficulty/Recommended Fitness Level
This hike is moderate, so it’s great for those of you who are relatively fit but not necessarily experienced. There are some moderate ascents and descents, but nothing too strenuous. If you’ve done a few easy hikes before, this one will feel like a pleasant challenge with lots of scenic rewards along the way.
Distance
The Põhja-Kõnnu Trail stretches for about 8 kilometers (5 miles), which makes it a perfect half-day hike. You’ll have plenty of time to appreciate the beauty of the area without feeling rushed.
Elevation Gain
While there’s no dramatic mountain climbing, the trail does have some moderate elevation changes, with a total elevation gain of around 200 meters (650 feet). The slight inclines are spread out, so it doesn’t feel too challenging, but you’ll still get a bit of a workout as you walk through the hilly terrain.
Start and End Point
The trail begins at the Karula National Park Visitor Center, located in the town of Karula. From there, the circular trail loops back to the starting point, so it’s easy to navigate and doesn’t require additional transportation.
Unique/Interesting Points/Cultural or Historical Points of Note
Karula National Park is known for its serene and unspoiled landscapes, and the Põhja-Kõnnu Trail gives you a chance to truly immerse yourself in it. Along the trail, you’ll pass by multiple scenic lakes and traditional Estonian countryside, and there are even a few historical and cultural spots to discover.
The trail features an old wooden observation tower, which offers amazing views of the surrounding forest and lake district.
Hike #4: Soomaa National Park – River Trails
Soomaa National Park is one of Estonia’s hidden gems, and the River Trails offer a fantastic opportunity to explore this unique landscape. Known for its vast bogs, flooded meadows, and rivers, Soomaa has earned a reputation for its incredible natural beauty and pristine wilderness. The River Trails are perfect for those of you who want a mix of forest and wetland scenery.
Difficulty/Recommended Fitness Level
This hike is easy to moderate and is totally suitable for beginners and families, though it does require a bit of stamina if you’re venturing into the wetland areas. Some parts of the trail can be muddy, especially in spring or after rain, so it’s a good idea to be prepared for a bit of squelching. It’s a relatively flat trail, but it does take a little effort to navigate through the boggy sections.
Distance
The River Trails offer several loop options, with the most popular being around 4 kilometers (2.5 miles). It’s a relatively short and sweet hike, which makes it a great option if you’re short on time but still want to experience Soomaa’s unique environment.
Elevation Gain
There’s almost no elevation gain on this hike as it’s mostly flat terrain. The real challenge comes from navigating the boggy, marshy sections, but they’re all part of the experience that makes Soomaa so special.
Start and End Point
The trail begins and ends at the Soomaa National Park Visitor Center, where you can park your car and get all the information you need about the area. From there, it’s easy to follow the clearly marked trail through the park, and then you can loop back to the center after your hike.
Unique/Interesting Points/Cultural or Historical Points of Note
Soomaa National Park is renowned for its “five seasons,” which refers to the annual flooding that transforms the landscape and gives it an otherworldly appearance. Hiking here during the spring flood season is particularly unique, as the landscape changes from meadows to lakes almost overnight. The park is also rich in cultural history, with remnants of old bog roads used by ancient Estonians.
Hike #5: Kõrvemaa Nature Reserve – The Põhja Trail
Located in the heart of the Kõrvemaa Nature Reserve, the Põhja Trail offers a fantastic adventure through diverse landscapes, from pine forests to marshes and bogs. It’s one of those hikes that lets you experience the best of Estonia’s untouched wilderness.
Difficulty/Recommended Fitness Level
This hike is moderate, with some sections of uneven terrain, especially in the boggy and marshy areas. While not overly challenging, it’s best suited for hikers with a moderate fitness level, as the terrain can be a bit tricky in places.
Distance
The Põhja Trail is around 7.5 kilometers (4.7 miles) long, which makes it a nice half-day hike. It’s not too long, but it offers plenty of variety and scenic views.
Elevation Gain
The elevation gain is minimal, as the trail stays relatively flat throughout the hike. The terrain mainly consists of forest and wetland, so you won’t be dealing with any significant climbs or descents.
Start and End Point
The trail begins at the Kõrvemaa Nature Reserve’s parking area, where you can leave your car and start your hike. The trail is a loop, so it will bring you back to the same point after you complete it.
Unique/Interesting Points/Cultural or Historical Points of Note
Kõrvemaa is known for its rugged beauty and is a haven for wildlife. As you hike, you may spot elk, wild boar, and a variety of bird species, including rare ones like the black stork. The bogs along the trail are particularly fascinating, with their unique plant life, including carnivorous sundews.
Hike #6: Oandu–Aegviidu–IKEA Trail
If you’re looking for a hike that combines stunning scenery with a touch of adventure, the Oandu–Aegviidu–IKEA Trail is an absolute gem. This trail runs through the captivating Lahemaa National Park, and it offers everything from lush forests and expansive marshes to crystal-clear streams.
Difficulty/Recommended Fitness Level
This hike is considered moderate, but it’s a bit on the longer side. The trail is ideal for hikers with a moderate to advanced fitness level since it covers varied terrain that can be challenging at times, especially in areas with more marshland.
Distance
The Oandu–Aegviidu–IKEA Trail stretches about 20 kilometers (12.4 miles), which makes it a substantial day hike.
Elevation Gain
While the elevation gain isn’t steep, there are some rolling hills and small inclines along the trail. These mild changes in elevation keep things interesting, but they’re not overwhelming. Overall, it’s a pretty manageable hike.
Start and End Point
The trail starts at Oandu and winds its way through the beautiful forests and bogs, and then it ends at IKEA, which is somewhat of a landmark for the trail’s finish.
Unique/Interesting Points/Cultural or Historical Points of Note
Lahemaa National Park, which is home to the Oandu–Aegviidu–IKEA Trail, is one of Estonia’s most important and well-preserved nature reserves. As you hike, you’ll pass through ancient forests, see traditional manor houses, and traverse bogs that are home to rare plant species. The trail is also known for its diverse wildlife, including elk, wild boar, and various bird species.
Conclusion
In short, Estonia offers some truly remarkable hiking opportunities for adventurers of all levels. It truly is one of the most underrated hiking destinations in all of Europe. For more epic trails, check out our guide to hiking in Switzerland, where stunning landscapes await.
