Welcome to Leivonmäki National Park, the oasis of biodiversity in the Jyväskylä Region! Established in 2003, this national park offers wonderful experiences for hikers of all ages and skill levels. Leivonmäki National Park enchants its visitors with its varied landscapes, where ridges, lakes, and mires create a unique natural mosaic. The park’s safe and easy-to-navigate trails and boardwalks make it a perfect destination for the whole family.
The park has a variety of trails, ensuring that everyone can find a suitable one. The Koskikara Nature Trail, starting from Rutalahti, is 3.5 km long. The trail follows the shores of the Rutajoki River and provides interesting information about the area’s history and wildlife through information boards. The Harjunkierros (4.5 km) and Mäyränkierros (5.5 km) trails, starting from the Selänpohja parking area, offer stunning scenery and diverse nature experiences. Mountain biking routes and guided tours also start from Selänpohja.
The accessible trail at Harjujärvi allows people with mobility impairments to enjoy nature. Due to its steepness, it is recommended to have an assistant.
More information and trail maps: luontoon.fi
See also other destinations: Southern Konnevesi and Pyhä-Häkki
Hiking, paddling, or cycling – Leivonmäki National Park offers something for everyone
Explore the national park on guided tours or independently by renting equipment. The area also has several interesting accommodation options that offer services to travellers. Read more and book separately: visitjyvaskyla.fi/en/outdoorexpress. Please note that services are not included in the transport price and must be booked in advance.
The Outdoor Express transport for Leivonmäki National Park also loops through Joutsa town centre, stopping at Selänpohja and Rutalahti during the day. At the end of the day, it returns to Jyväskylä via Joutsa. Below is the detailed schedule.
Jyväskylä – Leivonmäki – Jyväskylä
The transport departs from Jyväskylä Travel Centre at 11:00 and stops at Koskikara (Rutalahti P) at 11:40, Selänpohja P at 11:55, and the Harjujärvi accessible trail at 12:15. After this, the transport continues to Joutsa (Yhdyskatu) at 13:00, from where it returns to the national park area, stopping at Selänpohja P at 13:30 and Rutalahti P at 13:45.
The return transport departs from Koskikara (Rutalahti P) at 16:30, Selänpohja P at 16:45, the Harjujärvi accessible trail at 17:00, Joutsa (Yhdystie) at 17:30, and arrives at Jyväskylä Travel Centre at 18:30.