Isojärvi National Park

Kuhmoinen
Pirkanmaa

The Forest Gem of Pirkanmaa Region

Located in Kuhmoinen, Isojärvi National Park is a stunning land of blue waves and expansive forests, punctuated by dramatic terrain and, in places, large glacial erratics. Spreading out in its tranquil seclusion, the park is just over an hour’s drive from both Tampere and Jyväskylä. Isojärvi offers an ideal playground for hikers, paddlers, and mountain bikers alike. A variety of trails start from the Heretty Lodge Café, making it easy for each visitor or group to find a suitable route to explore.

While the large, windy Isojärvi—with its fjord-like shape—offers a challenge for paddlers, the smaller, scenic Kurkijärvi is better suited for beginners.

For cyclists, a new trail opened in the summer of 2019. It leads from Heretty to Lortikka and loops back along small gravel roads, covering a total distance of 16 kilometers. There is also a cycling route connecting the national park with Kuhmoinen.

Isojärvi National Park has two restricted areas: Lortikanvuori and Latokuusikko. In these areas, movement is allowed only on official trails during the snow-free season; stepping off the path is not permitted. Both restricted areas are beautiful and well worth visiting within the guidelines.

Services

The Waves and Forests of Isojärvi Call for Tranquility

“Isojärvi has plenty of water, including the lake that gave the park its name as well as smaller ponds and marsh pools. Additionally, there is wonderful moss-covered enchanted forest and even large glacial boulders.”

This is how Minna Jakosuo, the hostess of Heretty Lodge Café, describes the Isojärvi area. Located at a comfortable distance—far enough, yet still conveniently close to major cities—the Isojärvi area offers peaceful nature and a genuine wilderness feel. Isojärvi is the perfect destination for day-trippers, though we recommend spending a bit more time in the area. This way, the serene, untamed nature of Isojärvi will have a chance to fully captivate you.

Find and book a service in Isojärvi >>

The area offers various accommodation options, and visitors to Isojärvi National Park are also well-served with excellent equipment rental options. Whether you want to rent a canoe, rowboat, packraft, a tent, sleeping bag, camping stove, or even a backpack, it’s all available at Heretty. This way, you can easily go on an adventure even if you can’t or don’t wish to purchase equipment outright, or if you want to test it out before buying.

How to get there

Heretty – The Gateway to Isojärvi

Start your Isojärvi adventure at the Heretty Lodge Café. Here, you can not only enjoy the most delightful baked goods but also rent outdoor equipment at a reasonable price and receive the best and latest tips for the park. The café is run by experienced wilderness guides Minna and Vesa Jakosuo.

By car

It takes a little over an hour to drive the approximately 85 kilometers from Tampere to Heretty.

From Jyväskylä to Heretty, it’s about 90 kilometers, also a bit over an hour’s drive.

The distance from Helsinki to Heretty is around 200 kilometers, taking just under three hours.

By public transport

Isojärvi National Park is easiest to reach by private car, rental car, or carpool.

The nearest bus stops are a bit farther away: in Länkipohja (14 km) and Kuhmoinen (17 km).

A brand-new cycling route leads from Kuhmoinen to Heretty, spanning about 35 kilometers with several rest spots along the way.

Our stories from Isojärvi

The photographs on this page were produced as part of the “Central Finland Hiking Trails on the World Map” project, funded by the Central Finland ELY Centre from the Agricultural Fund for Rural Development. The photos were taken by Heikki Sulander.