Sauna Hike from 11 AM to 8 PM (three locations):

1. Kaunissaari (Google Maps)
   • Departure by canoe from Sahanranta at 11 AM (6 km round trip), €15 (includes sauna experience and equipment rental). Registration: Heli Peltola, tel. +358 40 827 2753 (max. 6 people) (Google Maps)
   • Traditional sauna session guided by a sauna master approx. 12–1 PM
   • Campfire
2. Leirisaari (Google Maps)
   • 12–3 PM: Swimsuit sauna, come and go freely
   • 3–6 PM: Peat sauna, €15/person. Registration: Hyvinvointipalvelut Pihlaja, tel. +358 40 413 2994 or hyvinvointipalvelutpihlaja@gmail.com
   • Campfire
3. Pihlajavesi Old Vicarage (Wanha Pappila, Google Maps)
   • 5–8 PM: Tent sauna for adventurous hikers at the Old Vicarage. Voluntary donation to the sauna host.
   • Bring your own snacks for the campfire or buy refreshments from kiosks at Sahanranta or the Old Vicarage.

Saturday, 16 August 2025

At the Korpikirjasto Book Café (Google Maps):

The main event of the Korpikirjasto program begins at 10:00 AM when Olli Rajala, an international expert in tar burning, lights his tar-burning reactor. Over the past 30 years, Rajala has developed a pyrolysis-based tar production method. Within an hour, the first drops of tar begin to flow. During the six-hour process, by-products include pitch oil, turpentine, wood acid (also known as tar urine), hydrogen, and finally 175 liters of charcoal. Olli Rajala is happy to explain the process in more detail during the demonstration.

The tar-burning demonstration is free of charge. A small bottle of the freshly made tar can be purchased for €5.

During the tar-burning show, from 10 AM to 4 PM, the book café will be open to visitors.

For children and the young at heart, six lambs born this spring roam freely and are ready to be petted. Chicks, expected to hatch around Midsummer, are also on display for curious eyes.

At 1:30 PM, a 20-minute children’s storytime takes place, focusing on the animals that live in our forests—true tales from the surroundings of Korpikirjasto.

The Usva photo exhibition, with images captured around Korpikirjasto, is also on display at the café.

At 10:00 AM, the nature trail opens across the untouched bogs surrounding Korpikirjasto, accessible via duckboards and featuring the world’s only Bog Library (Suokirjasto). There is a primal power in the bog, awakened by its scents and embraced as you sit and read in the quiet of the bog library.

Sunday, 17 August 2025

Events continue at the Korpikirjasto Book Café, open from 10 AM to 4 PM (Google Maps):

Six spring-born lambs will again roam freely, waiting to be petted, and the Midsummer chicks will continue their curious peeping for all to enjoy.

At 1:30 PM, enjoy another 20-minute storytime for children, featuring true animal tales from the forests around Korpikirjasto.

The Usva photo exhibition remains open in the book café.

The nature trail, which opened on Saturday, remains open as it winds through the pristine bog on duckboards and leads you to the world’s only Bog Library. The bog’s raw, elemental power reveals itself through its earthy scent and the peaceful moments spent reading surrounded by nature.

Register in advance for the event’s guided tours (especially water activities) and meals. Registration does not require participation, but to ensure your outdoor experience, we recommend registering for the event.

Register here

Note: Equipment rentals are made directly with the providers. Details are below.

The large (A1 size) foldable Pihlaisten outdoor trail map consolidates all the maintained trails in the area onto a single map page.

If you want to ensure a successful hiking day and support the maintenance of the Pihlajavesi trail network, order the map through the webstore. During the Wilderness Days, the map will also be available at well-stocked local shops, including Pihlajavesi Kauppala and the Karansalmi village hall.

Price: 15 €

On Saturday

• Island Tour on Pihlaisselkä:
• Departure from Sahanranta at 12:30 PM (Google Maps). The tour includes guided paddling through the landscapes of Kaunissaaret (Google Maps) and Pöllösensaari (Google Maps), along with stories about the life and history of Pihlaisselkä. Enjoy coffee brewed over a campfire on an island. Duration: 4 hours. Price 25 €.
• Equipment rental: Wilderness Guide Markku Jokela, phone: 040-5442976.
• Canoeing to the Wilderness Church Evening Service:
• Departure from Sahanranta at 8:30 PM (Google Maps), with the evening service at 9:15 PM (Google Maps).
• Price: 10 € / person. Register here
• Route length: approx. 3 km round trip. On the return, there is an option for extended moonlight paddling.
• Equipment rental: Wilderness Guide Markku Jokela, phone: 040-5442976.

On Sunday

• Children’s Canoeing to Koipijoki:
• Children’s canoeing to Koipijoki at 12:00 PM (adults can join). Price: 5 €/ child, 10 €/ adult. Departure from Sahanranta (Google Maps).
• Equipment rental: Wilderness Guide Markku Jokela, phone: 040-5442976.

Hiking:

• Trail Of The Old Church: The 8.5 km loop can be shortened for younger family members by walking from Sahanranta (Google Maps) to the Wilderness Church (Google Maps) and back, totaling approximately 4.5 km. Parking is available at the event parking area in Koipikangas (Google Maps).
• Iskelmä (Schlager) Walk on Saturday at 3:00 PM, starting from the yard of the Old Vicarage of Pihlajavesi (Google Maps). Price: €25, including a packed snack. Registration: 044 317 8871 (max 15 people). Duration approx. 1.5 hours. The route is about 2.5 km and follows easy-to-walk roads.
• Moonlight Walk: Depart from Sahanranta (Google Maps) to the Wilderness Church (Google Maps) for the evening service on Saturday at 8:30 PM. Bring your own lights. The round trip is about 4.5 km.
• Purola Nature Trail: 400 m long nature trail and visit to Common Juniper Of Koivuranta (700 m).
• Korpikirjasto Tour: Includes the nature trail ”with nearby libraries” (4 km) (Google Maps)

Individual Attractions and Other Sights:

• Wilderness Church aka The Old Church Of Pihlajavesi (Google Maps): Visit the old church and the nearby church canal (Google Maps), which is about 250 m from the church. Parking is available at the church parking area.
• Kuuskoski: Drive to the end of Kuuskoskentie and take a short walk to the lean-to and riverbank, 1-2 km (Google Maps)
• Kankikota: Drive to Kankikota and walk 100 m to Kankimylly (Google Maps)
• From Karansalmi Village Hall (Google Maps) to Kokinkota (Google Maps) and back: A 2 km walk.
• Korpikirjasto Library Café (Google Maps): Storytime for children at 1:30 PM on Saturday and Sunday (20 minutes). Stories of animals in the surrounding forests. (No charge)
• Korpikirjasto Animal Yard (Google Maps): Petting sheep available on Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 AM–4:00 PM.

Canoeing:

• Equipment Rental on Saturday from Sahanranta (Google Maps): Contact Wilderness Guide Markku Jokela, phone: 040-5442976.
• Children’s Canoeing to Koipijoki: At 12:00 PM (adults can join). Price: 5 €/ child, 10 € / adult. Departure from Sahanranta (Google Maps). Equipment rental by Wilderness Guide Markku Jokela, phone: 040-5442976.
• Moonlight Canoeing from Sahanranta (Google Maps) to the Wilderness Church (Google Maps): Saturday at 8:30 PM (guided). Register here

Swimming and Sauna:

• Child-Friendly Beach: Available at Sahanranta (Google Maps)
• Leirisaari Suna Heated on Saturday from 2:00 PM–4:00 PM (Google Maps)
• The tent sauna at the Old Vicarage of Pihlajavesi will be hot on Saturday from 5 PM to 8 PM (Google Maps).
• Other Swimming Spots: See the ”Swimming” section.

Other Activities:

• Karaoke at Sahanranta (Google Maps): Starting at 2:00 PM on Saturday. Karaoke host Tapani Lintula. The kiosk is open until 10:00 PM. You can also grill your own food at the grill shelter.
• Football Croquet at Karhulankylä Worker’s Hall Field (Google Maps): Saturday and Sunday from 12:00 PM–3:00 PM.

Soup Kitchen at Karansalmi:

• Saturday: Serving of minced meat soup from 12:00 PM–3:00 PM (Google Maps).
• Price: 10 € per person. Register here

Sahanranta Café:

• Opening Hours: Saturday from 10:00 AM–10:00 PM (Google Maps).
• Available: Coffee, refreshments, doughnuts, ham and cheese sandwiches, rye bread with egg and anchovies, skillet pancakes with jam and whipped cream, grilled sausages, chocolate bars, licorice, and candy. Gluten-free options available.
• Grill Shelter: Located at the beach for grilling your own food.
• After 6:00 PM: Snacks and refreshments for the evening event.
• Address: Sahantie 68, 42910 Pihlajavesi

Korpikirjasto Café:

• Opening Hours: 10:00 AM–4:00 PM (Google Maps). Available: Coffee, tea, soft drinks, juice, ice cream, and light snacks. Sauna available by prior arrangement. Animals such as chickens and sheep on site.

Vicarage Waffle Café:

• Opening Hours: Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 AM–3:00 PM (Google Maps).
• Features: Open house, flea market, and pop-up waffle café at the Pihlajavesi parsonage.
• Address: Koipikankaantie 1025, 42910 Pihlajavesi

Picnic Supplies and Refreshments:

• Pihlajaveden Kauppala: Open Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 AM–3:00 PM (Google Maps).
• Karansalmi Village Hall: Open Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 AM–4:00 PM (Google Maps).

Rest Stops Along the Trails:

• Kankikota: Along the Kontioreitti trail (bring your own food).
• Kuuskoski Shelter: On the Kuuskoski trail, with fire-cooked food available for sale on Saturday from 10:00 AM–2:00 PM.
• Pihlaiskoski Shelter: (Bring your own food).
• Kaunissaari Fire Pit: (Bring your own food).
• Leirisaari Grill Site: (Bring your own food).
• Sahanranta Grill Site: Fire-cooked food available for sale at the café on Saturday from 10:00 AM–10:00 PM (Google Maps).
• Valkeinen Swimming Beach Fire Pit (Google Maps)

B&B Accommodation at Pihlajavesi Old Vicarage:

• Location: Princess’s and/or Servant’s Room In Väentupa (Google Maps)
• Includes: Two bedrooms with double beds, a fully equipped kitchen, and a bathroom. Lakeside sauna available upon request.
• Contact: 040 555 0419.

Rental Cabin Huili:

• Location: Near Pihlajaveden Railway Station.
• Description: A small rental cabin perfect for overnight stays, regardless of weather conditions.
• Booking: Reserve Huili for Erämaapäivät.

Camping at Sahanranta:

• ”Hammock Hotel”: Hammock setup at your own risk. Location will be designated nearby (Google Maps).
• RV Parking: Available without services.

Pöllösensaari and Kaunissaari:

• Ownership: Community-owned islands managed by the local fishing community.
• Pöllösensaari: Best for sleeping in a hammock (Google Maps). Includes a sauna building freely available.
• Kaunissaari: Popular hiking destination with a shelter equipped with bunk beds for 4 people (Google Maps). Also has a freely accessible sauna building.

Tiedetila:

• 24/7 Accommodation: Available at Tiedetila.
• Contact: 041 460 3491. (Google Maps)

Korpikirjasto:

• Accommodation: Stay among books in a cultural environment.
• Contact: 040 872 7414 (Google Maps)

Other Accommodation Options in the Keurusseutu Area:

• Visit Keuruu
• Kuusijärven Lomamökit
• Erkki Tiensuu Oy: Offers detached house accommodation in Karansalmi. Read more here.

Swimming Beaches in the Event Area:

• Valkeisen uimaranta (pdf) | (Google Maps)
• Karansalmen uimapaikka (pdf)| (Google Maps)
• Sahan uimaranta (pdf) | (Google Maps)
• Valkeajärven uimaranta (pdf) | (Google Maps)

Other Washing Facilities:

• Karansalmi: Swimming and shower facilities available on Saturday and Sunday from 9 AM to 3 PM (Google Maps).
• The tent sauna at the Old Vicarage of Pihlajavesi will be hot on Saturday from 5 PM to 8 PM (Google Maps).
• Leirisaari: Sauna available on Saturday from 12 PM to 3 PM (Google Maps). Swimming is also possible on the island.
• Korpikirjasto: Sauna and shower available on Saturday and Sunday from 1 PM to 4 PM (Google Maps). Sauna access by prior arrangement.
• Kuusijärvi Holiday Cabins: Non-stop sauna on Saturday from 2 PM to 6 PM. Address: Kuusijärventie 365 A, 42930 Katajamäki

Download the 112 app to your phone and keep your GPS turned on while hiking. Through the app, emergency services can see your location.

Instructions in Case of Emergency:

1. Call 112: No need for a dialing code.
2. Describe the Situation: Report whether it is an accident or a medical emergency.
3. Provide Location Details: Give the exact location, address, and directions to the site. The rescue services have information on the routes, so try to specify which route you are on and the last identifiable landmark you passed.
4. Number of Patients: Inform how many people are injured or need help.
5. Danger to Life: Indicate if anyone is in life-threatening danger.
6. Follow Instructions: Listen carefully to instructions, answer questions, and hang up only after receiving permission to do so.
7. Stay Calm and Clear: A calm and clear emergency report ensures faster assistance.

Important Phone Numbers:

Event Coordinator:
Heli Peltola Phone: 040-8272753

Emergency Services – Sahanranta Area (Google Maps):
Phone: 050-5282437

Emergency Services – Karansalmi Village Hall (Google Maps):
Phone: 045-3102058

Transport for the Exhausted:
For minor injuries, fatigue, or broken bikes, use the organizer’s support vehicle.
Phone: 050-4680126

For serious cases, contact 112 directly (see first aid instructions).

The Pihlajavesi area offers a variety of attractions. Explore Pihlajavesi’s services and sights through our website.

Here are some highlights you shouldn’t miss:

• The Old Church Of Pihlajavesi (Google Maps) This charming and intriguing church has captivated visitors for nearly four centuries. During the event, the church will be open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with an evening service at 9:15 PM. Remember to bring your own lamp for outdoor lighting, as the evenings are getting darker in August.

• Pönttöpuisto. This park is a remnant of the former Pihlajavesi railway park, which was once a well-maintained and beautifully landscaped park. Today, it’s a bird hotel, with numerous personalized birdhouses placed by locals. Purchase your own birdhouse at Kauppala (Google Maps).
• Pihlajavesi Local Museum Learn about the local history of Pihlajavesi. The museum is open during the event on Sat – Sun from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM (Google Maps).
• Korpikirjasto and Library Café Open Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM (Google Maps). The animal yard here is a popular attraction for visitors. Korpikirjasto features a 4 km nature trail, complete with boardwalks through stunning swamp landscapes. Along the way, you can stop to read books at ”side libraries” located at rest benches.
• Disc Golf Course (Google Maps)
• Swimming Areas: Sahanranta beach (Google Maps) and the swimming dock at Karansalmi Village Hall (Google Maps).
• Tiedetila Open from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM (Google Maps). Tiedetila offers various experiences and activities during the event, including its computer museum.
• The Best Fishing Spots can be found in the Pihlaiskoski fishing area, a great destination for a self-guided excursion in the river landscape.
• Snack and Refreshments available at Kauppala (Google Maps) and Karansalmi Village Hall (Google Maps).

Addresses of Wilderness Days Visitor Locations:

• Wilderness Church Of Pihlajavesi | Erämaakirkontie 221, 42910 Pihlajavesi (Google Maps)
• Kankikota | Ala-Kankimäentie 292, 42930 Keuruu (Google Maps)
• Karansalmi Village Hall | Ähtärintie 999, 42930 Katajamäki (Google Maps)
• Karhulankylä’s Worker’s Hall | Karhunkyläntie 401, 42930 Katajamäki (Google Maps)
• Kaunissaaret | Island in Pihlajavesi (Google Maps)
• Kauppala | Hollikankaantie 149, 42910 Pihlajavesi (Google Maps)
• Church Canal | Erämaakirkontie 235, 42910 Pihlajavesi (Google Maps)
• Kokinkota | Kokinmäentie 3 42930 Katajamäki (Google Maps)
• Wilderness Library (Korpikirjasto) | Kala-aitankallio 30, 42910 Pihlajavesi (Google Maps) | www.korpikirjasto.fi
• Kuusijärven Holiday Cottages | Kuusijärventie 365, 42930 Katajamäki (Google Maps)
• Camp Island (Leirisaari) | Erämaakirkontie 306, 42910 Pihlajavesi (Google Maps)
• Pihlajaveden Disc Golf Course | Sahantie 2, 42910 Pihlajavesi (Google Maps)
• Pihlajaveden Local Heritage Museum | Koipikankaantie 1450, 42910 Pihlajavesi (Google Maps)
• Pihlajaveden Youth Club House | Hollikankaantie 154, 42910 Pihlajavesi (Google Maps)
• New Church of Pihlajavesi | Kirkkotie 31, 42910 Pihlajavesi (Google Maps)
• Pihlajaveden Wanha pappila | Koipikankaantie 1025, 42910 Pihlajavesi (Google Maps)
• Pöllösensaari | Island in Pihlajavesi (Google Maps)
• Rekola | Rekolantie 30, 42910 Pihlajavesi (Google Maps)
• Rekola Cemetary | Leponiemenranta 3, 42910 Pihlajavesi (Google Maps)
• Sahanranta Beach | Sahantie 68, 42910 Pihlajavesi (Google Maps)
• Sälli PVY Hall | Salmenahontie 3, 42930 Katajamäki (Google Maps)
• Pony Riding | Sällintie 225, 42910 Sällinkylä (Google Maps)
• Science Farm (Tiedetila) | Alkulantie 265, 42930 Katajamäki (Google Maps) | www.tiedetila.fi
• Valkeajärvi Beach | Valkeajärventie 736, 42910 Pihlajavesi (Google Maps)
• Valkeinen Beach | Koipikankaantie 572, 42910 Pihlajavesi (Google Maps)