Discovering Winter’s Serenity at Karkali Nature Reserve
Nestled on a peninsula that reaches into the tranquil waters of Lake Lohjanjärvi, Karkali Nature Reserve near Sammatti is often celebrated for its verdant Hazel Groves and the enigmatic Torhola Cave. While many flock here in summer, we embarked on an exploration to uncover the beauty of this natural haven in winter. What we experienced was an oasis of peace, silence, and a forest that felt as if it were breathing.
Key Information
- Starting Point: Marked on local maps
- Campfire Site: Available
- Accessibility: Well maintained
- Important Note: Strictly protected area; leaving designated trails and overnight stays are prohibited
- Guidelines: Available at Luontoon.fi
- Public Transport Access: Approximately 8 km from the nearest bus stop (Karkali TH)
- Driving Directions: Parking area is located at Karkalintie 1035, Lohja
In Finland, national parks allow for relatively free hiking within the bounds of their regulations. In contrast, strict nature reserves impose stringent controls, permitting movement solely along official trails. Some reserves have no marked trails, limiting entry almost exclusively to researchers with prior permission.
As we navigated the winding, hilly roads leading to Karkali, there was an air of anticipation. Meeting my friend at the well-plowed parking area felt like a stroke of good fortune, especially given the recent snowfall. A heartfelt thanks goes out to the diligent snowplow driver!
Adjacent to the parking lot, we found a toilet and an information board, which gave us an overview of the trails. After a brief study of the area map, we chose to embark on the nearly six-kilometer loop, although a shorter nature trail of just over two kilometers beckoned as well.
Our steps crunched on the untouched snow, interrupted only by the tracks of a solitary skier who had ventured in the opposite direction.
The towering trees enveloped us, and amid the grayness of the day, the forest felt especially welcoming, like a warm embrace. Here, the muted hues of winter transformed into something more comforting, a natural shelter from the world outside.
Following the easily marked trail, we first adhered to the pine cone symbols of the nature path, eventually branching off onto a longer route outlined with vibrant yellow markings. Though the peninsula isn’t vast, the majority of the trail meanders through dense woods, veering to the water’s edge only occasionally.
Along our journey, we stumbled upon a stone-lined spring, its water bubbling forth, unfrozen and reminiscent of summer. With a gleaming black veil streaming over the snowy ground, it was a refreshing reminder of warmer days.
Across the landscape, large aspens stood tall, their bark encased in a flawless layer of ice. This peculiar phenomenon was a sight to behold, a stark contrast to the other tree species around us. Curious, we examined the transparent ice, revealing vivid mosses and lichens that had made their home just beneath the surface.
As we pressed on, we noticed the delicate tracks of white-tailed and roe deer crisscrossing the forest floor. This realm firmly belonged to them; their paths occasionally aligned with ours only to diverge again, unrestricted by the reserve’s regulations. Despite the abundance of signs of wildlife, we had yet to encounter any creatures, save for the distant sound of a woodpecker’s persistent tapping.
A brisk winter wind rolled in from the expansive shores of Lake Lohjanjärvi, causing the trees to resonate with a symphony of sounds. Fallen trees lay in disarray, leaning against their sturdy counterparts—a natural archway of wood that swayed and creaked in harmony with the wind, filling the air with an intricate melody.
It became clear why Karkali is often regarded as a summer destination; the arching Hazel shrubs above the trail must transform into a magical canopy on warm evenings. I found myself anticipating a summer return, eager to absorb the liveliness of the grove under the sun.
As part of our route drew near the shoreline, the forest shifted, becoming more predominantly pine, where trees twisted into captivating, gnarled shapes. Here, the land met the lake, where sturdy black alders and reeds flourished, while the icicles that hung from the slopes projected the fragility and beauty of winter.
My visit to Karkali, though steeped in the quiet of winter, awakened a desire to return, to soak in the lush greenery and vibrant life of summer days at the lake.
Location: N=6682886.343, E=323706.521 (ETRS-TM35FIN)
Explore More
- Discover the stunning Liessaari Island in Lohja, a serene spot for nature trails and a cozy lean-to by the fire.
- Experience the enchanting Karnaistenkorpi Forest in Lohja, where trails and ponds await.
- Wander from a splendid Hazel grove to the mysterious depths of Karkalinniemi’s Cave in Lohja and embrace nature’s surprises.