Vanuvuori nature trail and observation tower

Vanuvuori is a popular hiking and recreational area which is located on the shore of Hiltulanlahti . The profile of Vanuvuori stands tall, dominating the landscape of southern Kuopio. The top of Vanuvuori is formed by three different peaks: Ukko-Vanu, Akka-Vanu and Pikku-Vanu. The highest peak Ukko-Vanu is 212 metres above sea level and rises nearly 140 metres above Kallavesi. It is the fourth highest hill in Kuopio. The area of Vanuvuori nature reserve, which is part of the EU’s Natura 2000 network, is approximately 125 hectares. The City gained ownership of the nature reserve through land sales by several different landowners. Today, the City owns the Vanuvuori nature reserve almost entirely. There is also forest used forestry in the area.

At Vanuvuori there is a 2.9 kilometer long nature trail where trees are marked with paint and signs it is partially challenging due to steep ascents and descents. There are also other trails in the area. The nature trail passes through an old clear-cut area, an old-growth forest and a hollow. On the trail the majestic cliff wall can be admired before asceding to the top. Stairs have been built along the nature trail on the northern slope of Ukko-Vanu making it easier to reach the observation tower. The effort of climbing is rewarded by the stunning views that will be revealed from the 20 meter high observation tower which was completed at the top of Ukko-Vanu in the spring of 2023. Along the trail information boards that provide insights into the various species found on Vanuvuori area and the well-being benefits of nature can be found. During the summer of 2023 a temporary campfire site has been built along the trail and in 2024 a lean-to shelter, campfire site, and restroom will be constructed on the same spot. Hikers are encouraged to use marked trails in the area to avoid excessive wear on the terrain. Berry-picking and foraging for mushrooms is allowed in the area. Keep pets on leash and please take your trash with you. Note that making an open fire is only allowed at the campfire place.

The slopes of Vanuvuori area are steep and rocky with sturdy pine forests growing on the slopes. The gaps between the hills and the lower slopes of the hills are mainly spruce-dominated and more lush. In addition to spruce, old deciduous trees, such as birch and goat willow, grey alder and aspen, grow in the hollows. In places, there are plenty of dead spruce trees, aspen trunks and decaying spruce and aspen trees. Decaying wood is important to diversity of nature because quarter of our forest species (ca. 5000 species) are depend of decaying wood.

Vanuvuori also has a lot of birds that thrive in old-growth forests. Pygmy owls, red-breasted flycatchers, greenish warblers and red-flanked bluetails have been encountered in the area. Three-toed woodpeckers, grey-headed woodpeckers, eagle owls and capercaillies are also frequent the area of Vanuvuori.

The trail starts from the parking lot, Koirakaarre 70, Kuopio. 

Vanuvuori (retkikartta.fi)