Ruohosaari circuit, Lappeenranta

The Ruohosaari circuit starts from Myllysaari in Lappeenranta, where there is Saimaan Latu's paddling center. The canoe can also be launched from nearby Kirkkoherranlahti (dog bathing place).

First, the route heads west of the Kukkosaaret islands toward Karhusaari, where you can take the first break at the Etelä-Karjalan virkistysaluesäätiölean-to shelter if you want. After Karhusaari, the direction heads toward Pikisaari, which is circled from the north side. After the Pikisaari circuit, you arrive at Pallonlahti, from where after crossing Taipalsaarentie you continue to Voisalmi. From the strait, you dodge under Voisalmentie and arrive at Sunisenselkä. The paddler can take a break at Voisalmi beach and then leave from there crossing the open water toward Ruohosaari. At Ruohosaari there are a lean-to shelter, firewood shelter, and a toilet. There is a good landing spot for paddlers a short distance from the lean-to.

From the Ruohosaari lean-to, the journey continues by circling Ruohosaari counterclockwise. From the deep-water open stretch, you can head to a beach. If desired, you can take a short stretching break here and hike the approximately 2 km Parkinmäki nature trail. Paddling continues from the beach along the shores toward Sammonlahti beach and later also toward Korkkitehtaanranta. After Korkkitehtaanranta, head toward Tyysterniemi and circle it again passing under road bridges and arriving at Pallonlahti. From Pallonlahti return back to Myllysaari or Kirkkoherranlahti.

TAKE CARE OF SAFETY! The Lappeenranta marina is busy with boat and cruise traffic. Large cargo ships pass through the deep channel from the Saimaa Canal to the factories in the water system. Paddlers must give way to other water traffic and stay outside the channels near the shore. Also beware of the waves caused by large vessels!

Metsähallitus guidelines for safe water hiking

Current warnings on land and sea areas

It is safest to travel in groups on land and water if you are not familiar with the terrain or water area.

Remember to wear a life jacket.

Before the trip, check the weather forecasts.

In an emergency, call 112. Give your location, what has happened, and listen to instructions.

Arrival at Myllysaari or the head of Kirkkoherranlahti (53100 Lappeenranta) by car or bicycle. 

Address: Myllysaarenpolku, 53100 Lappeenranta

Driving cars is only allowed in the Myllysaari family park area during the winter months, from about mid-November to mid-April. At other times the gate is closed. Holders of disabled parking permits can receive the gate lock key from the sports department if necessary.

Rowers and paddlers have the right to drive service traffic to the rowing and canoeing buildings between mid-April and mid-November from 22:00 to 09:00.

There is no direct public transport to the starting point of the route at Myllysaari in Lappeenranta. 

The nearest local transport stop is at the central hospital, from where it is about 1 km to Myllysaari.

Lappeenranta local bus schedules

You can arrive in Lappeenranta by train or coach.

VR train schedules

Coach bus schedules

Saimaan Latu - Kayaking

Saimaan Latu's Tuesday paddlings