Saarjõe hiking trail (9,7 km)
Foot-and-mouth, a severe animal disease, is currently circulating in Europe and also poses a threat to animals in Estonia. Your help is needed to prevent animals here – sheep, cattle, goats, and other ungulates – from becoming infected. We ask that you please follow some important recommendations.
The trail is very difficult to pass!
Measuring 9.7 km in length, the circular trail offers hikers the chance to enjoy the varied natural landscape along the beautiful shores of the Saarjõgi River. Starting and ending at the Saeveski forest hut, the trail provides tired hikers with a place to rest under the roof. A respite is needed after completing this trail, as it is intended only for a well-equipped, fit hikers. There are no smooth boardwalks or wide wood chip paths here. Only blue signs on trees and a sense of direction aided by GPS provided guidance. Beavers, bark beetles and storm winds have made sure that no step can be taken without effort. As this is a special protection zone within the Saarjõe Landscape Protection Area, fallen trees have been left to nature. As long as nature is active, Saarjõe remains a favourite place for extreme sports enthusiasts to test their climbing and orienteering skills. Fortunately, these efforts are rewarded with fresh air, birdsong, and views of the river winding between the sandy banks. Perhaps you will see a kingfisher…
Hikers should take into account that, depending on the season, the trail can be very wet at times, and water may seep in from your boot leg. As is typical of old natural forests, there are all sorts of obstacles to enliven the trail, which must be crossed with the next blue marking in mind. This trail is suitable for experienced hikers.
Parking
Saeveski parking area and Metsavenna campfire site.
Amenities
There are several information boards along the trail, introducing objects
Camping
Camping is possible at Metsavenna campfire site and Saeveski forest hut.
Sights
The trail largely follows the route of the river Saarjõgi with its valley, which in places is 5 m deep and 40-50 m wide. Varied landscape, different forest communities and cultural heritage objects. Along the trail there are the dunes of the onetime Baltic Ice Lake, popularly known as Kabelimägi hills.
Additional Information
Before going on a nature walk please read the Environmental code of conduct, rules of conduct and waste-sorting policy
Restrictions
The trail is in Saarjõe Landscape Protection Area. Further information can be obtained from the Environmental Board +372 662 5999, info@keskkonnaamet.ee
Long-Lat WGS 84
Latitude: 58.634418
Longitude: 25.285768
L-EST 97x: 574672
L-EST 97y: 6500111