Uncategorized - Nature trails https://naturetrails.ee Hiking in Estonia Fri, 04 Sep 2026 07:21:40 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1 https://naturetrails.ee/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/cropped-ChatGPT-Image-Jun-14-2026-09_42_12-AM-32x32.png Uncategorized - Nature trails https://naturetrails.ee 32 32 Is sustainability just a modern word? https://naturetrails.ee/sustainable-hiking/ Fri, 04 Sep 2026 06:54:08 +0000 https://naturetrails.ee/?p=749 Read more at Nature trails

]]>

6 ideas how to hike sustainably

I spend a lot of time in nature, exploring different places. Some are places that many people don’t bother to walk to, others attract those who are genuinely passionate about hiking, and some are very easily accessible by car. You can notice a difference in how people behave. Of course, it’s always possible that it just seems that way to me, but still… I have the impression that longer trails, where you can’t conveniently get by car, are usually cleaner. Perhaps only those who have a deeper appreciation for spending time outdoors tend to go there. They also seem to pay more attention to protecting the environment.

Hiking gives us the opportunity to experience nature up close, but at the same time, we need to make sure that our impact on the environment is as small as possible. Sustainable hiking does not require major sacrifices—often, a few small, conscious choices are enough to help preserve biodiversity and the natural balance.

1. Stay on the trail. Use existing hiking trails to avoid damaging plants and fragile soil. This is especially important in protected areas and places where nature is particularly sensitive. Bog wooden trails are designed not only to make our movement safe and easy, but also to protect peat moss from damage. Peat moss grows only 1mm per year. Which means restoration on it can take decades.

2. Reduce waste. Bring food in reusable containers and carry a reusable water bottle instead of using disposable dishes and packaging. Everything you bring into the forest should also leave with you. If you managed to carry it into the forest, you can manage to carry it back out. Even if there are rubbish bins at a campsite, empty food containers left there can still attract birds and animals. They may get hold of the packaging, drag it around, and even injure themselves.

3. Think about transportation. If possible, take a train or bus to your hiking destination. If you travel by car, consider sharing the ride with other hikers. This reduces fuel consumption and your overall environmental impact. One of the best areas to get by train is Aegviidu. You can find lots of different RMK trails there, 2 food stores next to the station. Train schedule is here: www.elron.ee Viru bog is reachable by bus, schedule can be checked here: www.peatus.ee 

train schedule
bus schedule
img 1789
img 3621
img 3662

4. Only make a fire in designated areas. A campfire can be a wonderful part of a hike, but a fire in the wrong place can pose a serious risk of wildfire. Use existing fire pits and always make sure the fire is completely extinguished. We all saw terrifying news about wildfires in France and Spain, some of them started by careless hikers making fire. 

5. Camp where it is permitted. Prefer official campsites and areas that have already been used for camping, and avoid trampling fragile ground. In protected areas, always check what restrictions apply. Restrictions are marked in RMK.ee and RMK application. 

6. Respect wildlife and other people. Do not disturb animals, do not pick protected plants, and keep noise levels low. When you enter nature, you are a guest. Leave as little trace of your presence as possible.

A good hike is not only one you return from with beautiful memories. A good hike is also one after which nature is just as beautiful as it was before you arrived.

Read more at Nature trails

]]> Hiking the Coastal Trail https://naturetrails.ee/hiking-the-coastal-trail/ Tue, 18 Aug 2026 08:12:49 +0000 https://naturetrails.ee/?p=728 Read more at Nature trails

]]>

Hiking along the coast in Estonia

One of my favorite places to hike is along the coast. Sandy beaches, sparse pine forests by the shore, views of the sea… There is something about them that keeps drawing me back to the seaside. Estonia offers an excellent opportunity to experience this. Considering how long and accessible our coastline is, it would be a shame not to take advantage of it. So where should you start?

Those who prefer some structure, a plan, and a sense of achievement could take on

Baltic Coastal Hiking Route

which is part of the European long-distance hiking trail E9. The Estonian section is approximately 620 kilometers long. The trail is divided into 60 one-day sections, so you do not have to complete the entire route at once. You can choose a suitable section based on your available time, physical fitness, and interests.

It is a great option for people who want to be part of something bigger but do not actually have the time to spend weeks on the trail.

Proper preparation is a key to success in hiking.

Before setting off on a coastal hike, the most important thing is to do some proper preparation. The most information can be found on the official website of the Baltic Coastal Hiking Route (link below), where different sections of the trail are described, including their length, duration, difficulty level, starting and finishing points, and possible obstacles. GPX files can also be downloaded there and used for navigation with a phone or GPS device. The Baltic Coastal Hiking Route can be completed in either direction, and each daily section can also be hiked separately.

img 1052

The trail descriptions also provide information about the type of terrain and potentially more challenging sections. Several parts of the route run along sandy beaches for quite a long distance, but if walking on sand becomes too tiring, it is usually possible to continue through the nearby forest instead.

What about transportation?

There is, however, one small “but” when it comes to these hikes: how do you get to the starting or finishing point? Traveling by public transport often requires careful planning, as it may not be possible to reach your destination by bus when you are far from larger settlements. You can go by car, of course, but then how do you get back to your car? One solution I have used is to leave my car at the finishing point, take a bus to the starting point, and then hike back to my car. This way, I do not have to worry about catching a bus by a certain time in order to get back to my car—I can simply arrive when I arrive.

In conclusion, hiking along the coast is a great way to discover Estonia’s nature, but thoughtful planning is essential for an enjoyable hike. The most important steps are to choose a route that matches your abilities, familiarize yourself with the trail and possible obstacles, check the weather, plan your transport, food, and accommodation, and bring appropriate equipment. Once the preparation is done, you can spend more time enjoying the sea, nature, and interesting places along the way, making your coastal hike a safe and memorable experience.

You can find more information about the route here:

Baltic Coaustal Route official page

Read more at Nature trails

]]> Aegna https://naturetrails.ee/aegna/ Tue, 18 Aug 2026 07:32:47 +0000 https://naturetrails.ee/?p=696 Read more at Nature trails

]]>

Aegna - island you can reach by ferry from center of Tallinn in 30 minutes

Welcome to the heart of Tallinn! Sounds rather strange, doesn’t it, when we’re talking about an island? But that’s exactly the case: the island, located about 10 km from the capital, is part of Tallinn, although there is, of course, little sign of the city there. Although Aegna itself is only 3 km² in size, the island welcomes visitors with a fascinating history and diverse nature. From behind Tallinn’s Linnahall, Vegtind takes passengers across the sea in just half an hour, transporting them into what feels like another world. You can even pick up a light snack and a drink at the harbour before the journey through time begins.

img 1894

During the hike, we travel through several centuries, from the 13th century to the present day. We talk about how the island was formed, what life may have been like back then, what people did for a living, as well as shipping routes and pirates. Our journey takes us past an old cemetery and the huge glacial erratic boulders left behind by the Ice Age. We also visit a viewpoint that many people don’t bother to climb to, but which offers a wonderful view of the open sea and a sense of complete solitude. There is a place on the island where the 13th and 20th centuries meet in one and the same spot. The ruins of military structures make you reflect on how powerful, yet at the same time unpredictable, the island’s history has been.

 

As we travel through history, the island’s mysterious nature is impossible to overlook. The forest and vegetation change every so often in ways I have never encountered anywhere else. One moment you are surrounded by dense forest, and the next you can see all the way from one shore to the other through a line of trees. 

ce7a1211v

Nature lovers will certainly find plenty to discover here. The twisted pine trees and abundance of rare plants make it impossible to simply keep walking. You are constantly stopping in awe—either looking up at the trees or looking down to discover yet another fascinating plant.

I have visited Aegna at least four times this season, and every single time I have come back having discovered something new. I already can’t wait for my next visit!

Season lasts until end of September. If you are interested in guided hike on Aegna island – please contact us, we will be happy to assist.

tatjana.siipan@gmail.com

Read more at Nature trails

]]> Should You Go Hiking Alone or With Someone? https://naturetrails.ee/elementor-665/ Wed, 12 Aug 2026 12:27:46 +0000 https://naturetrails.ee/?p=665 Read more at Nature trails

]]>

Should I Go Hiking Alone or With Someone?

In addition to choosing a trail, which I talked about in my previous post, there is another important thing to consider when preparing for a hike — something I often find myself thinking about. Should I go alone or with someone? I don’t know how it is for others, but I have always had a slight sense of fear — from wondering whether I will find the right trail to questioning whether I will be comfortable spending all that time alone with myself.

IMG 2345 768x1024

Hiking is a great way to get away from everyday life, spend time outdoors, strengthen your body and recharge mentally. We all know this, but quite often, actually going on a hike gets held back by something. For example, by that very question: do I dare to go alone, or would I rather invite someone to come with me? Both options have their pros and cons, and the choice largely depends on a person’s character, experience and what they expect from the hike.

Hiking Alone – Freedom and a Challenge

Let’s start with the fact that when I go alone, I don’t have to take anyone else’s plans into consideration. I can go whenever I want and wherever I want. There is nothing wrong with taking a companion’s wishes into account, of course, but there is a certain sense of freedom in not having to make compromises about the timing or the route. This can be especially good for people who want some peaceful time with their own thoughts and a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

From a mental health perspective, spending time alone in nature can be very beneficial. Being active outdoors helps reduce stress and gives your mind a chance to slow down and relax. Hiking alone can also increase self-confidence. If you manage to complete a more difficult trail and solve problems that come up along the way by yourself, it can give you the feeling that you are capable of dealing with other challenges that life may throw at you as well.

As we know, hiking is also physically beneficial. Walking improves endurance, strengthens muscles and supports cardiovascular health. When hiking alone, you can adjust the physical load exactly according to your own abilities — you can increase or decrease your pace whenever necessary.

At the same time, hiking alone comes with certain risks. If something happens — for example, you twist your ankle, get lost or the weather suddenly turns bad (yes, even in Estonia, although thankfully not very often) — there is no one nearby who can immediately help you. This can also create mental stress and uncertainty, especially when going on a longer hike. That is why, when hiking alone, it is particularly important to choose a trail that matches your abilities, check the weather forecast and let someone know where you are going. And most important: charge your phone before going out to 100%. 

Hiking Together – Safety and Shared Experiences

One of the biggest advantages of hiking with someone else is safety. If something happens, your companion can help or call for assistance if necessary. On more challenging trails, it can also be easier to motivate and encourage each other. Remember an old joke? When you meet a bear, you don’t have to be very fast runner, you just need to be faster than your friend.

From a mental health perspective, hiking together can be a great way to strengthen relationships. Doing something physically active together and spending time in nature gives you an opportunity to have relaxed conversations and enjoy quality time without phones and other everyday distractions. Good company can also make a longer and physically demanding hike much more enjoyable.

So, Which One Should You Choose?

Personally, I choose both options, depending on how I feel at the time and what kind of hike I need at that particular moment. If my goal is to have some time to myself, clear my head or, for example, explore a trail and think through possible discussion points for a group hike, I go alone.

However, if I am going on a longer hike somewhere unfamiliar to me, it is nice to share the experience with someone else. And, to be honest, it feels a little safer that way too!

img 0270

Try both options — one does not exclude the other. The important thing is that when you go alone, your loved ones know where you are going and how long you plan to be away. And when you go with someone, it helps if your companion has a similar level of experience and expectations, so that the hike is enjoyable for both of you.

Read more at Nature trails

]]> How to choose a hike that suits you? https://naturetrails.ee/elementor-643/ Thu, 06 Aug 2026 08:34:27 +0000 https://naturetrails.ee/?p=643 Read more at Nature trails

]]>

How to choose a hike that suits you?

I’ve been hiking for quite some time now and some of my friends have been asking how to choose a suitable route. There are probably more of you, who wish to go further, but aren’t sure where to start.

To be a memorable hike, it does not have to be long or on difficult terrain. A great experience often depends much more on whether the trail matches your expectations, physical fitness, and level of preparation.

First, think about why you are going hiking. Do you want a peaceful walk in nature, to take photographs, watch birds, or get a proper workout? If your goal is relaxation, choose a shorter, well-marked trail. If you are looking for a challenge, pay attention to the trail length, elevation gain, and surface.

img 4665.jpeg

A very well organized compieting hiking event can be not the experience you’re looking for. The trail markings may be excellent, the scenery may be beautiful, food and drink stops may be well planned. But because it is a sports event, you try to keep up the pace. After all, nobody wants to finish last, and at some point the finish line will be eventually closed. It may become a big mistake, because instead of returning from the trail relaxed, you may comeback irritated. Just because the event wasn’t what you were expecting.

If the purpose of hiking is a change of environment and noticing both yourself and nature. The sense of peace and satisfaction you are seeking from hiking comes from traveling alone or with a small group and without time pressure. If you want to use a forest path instead of a sandy road, you can do that. If you want to have six picnics instead of three, you can do that too.

Another important part is to assess your physical fitness honestly. For beginners, a trail of 3–6 km that can be completed in 1–2 hours is usually suitable. A more experienced hiker can choose a longer loop or more varied terrain.

A small challenge can certainly give a pleasant feeling that lasts for a long time, but if you end up suffering from for example foot pain afterward or put yourself in danger by choosing the wrong terrain, that is not a good choice at all.

Do not forget the season and the weather. In autumn, forest trails can be wet and slippery, in winter, snow and ice affect movement. The recommendation to dress in layers applies in every season. Even in summer, a forested section of the trail may feel hot, while open areas can be much windier.

Do not worry too much about muddy sneakers. You can probably wash them clean at home. If possible, keep a change of clothes and shoes ready in the car. That way, you do not have to worry on the trail about how you will get home afterward.

IMG 9555 768x1024

A small rain poncho takes up very little space in a backpack, but can make a hike much more pleasant. A light summer shower is not a big problem, but in autumn, continuing to walk in wet clothes can feel very cold in the wind. The one in the photo is from Decathlon and manages the job perfectly.

A good trick is to choose a trail that has something you are genuinely interested in—for example, a bog, a waterfall, a sea view, or an observation tower. When the destination excites you, the walking feels easier as well.

In summary, a trail that is slightly too easy is better than one that is too difficult. If, at the end of the hike, you feel that you could have gone a little farther, you have most likely chosen a trail that suits you well. That creates the desire to return to nature, which is the most important thing of all.

Read more at Nature trails

]]> Behind the scenes: how Nature Trails started https://naturetrails.ee/elementor-617/ Mon, 03 Aug 2026 09:24:28 +0000 https://naturetrails.ee/?p=617 Read more at Nature trails

]]>

Behind the scenes:
how Hiking trails started

First of all, let me  introduce myself: mom of 2 boys, 21 years experience in logistics, 20 years of fitnees instructor experience…and than, pivot turn towards nature..

Well, pivot in professional meaning. I always loved beeing in nature, prefering mountains, forest and seaside to big cities husstle. Going for a hike was a habit, more of a feeling, that I need to be among the trees, where you dont’ hear traffic sounds and preferrably no other people. It helped to balance stress coming from logistics job. It was year 2022, when stress was so overwhelming, that I felt there is 2 options: I will quite my job (and I loved my job, so didn’t really want to do it) OR I need to get away somewhere, preferably on a long hike. So I found a perfect option, or so I thought – 8 days trecking in Tuscany in November. Saying it was difficult, would be like saying nothing. The only thought by the end of the day was.. Are we there yet? 154 km in total, proper descending and ascending meters, several blisters and legs hearting by the end of the day. It was really demanding physically, but at the same time surroundings were breathtaking and mentally it was a perfect restart. All other thoughts were gone from my head – you only think how to move forward. Was it a burnout or was I on the edge of it, I don’t know. All I know, is that trecking helped me gather myself. This is the reason I believe in nature healing properties.

img 3952
img 7013
img 6970

Career pivot time: from logistics to tourism

Sometime later economical situation changed and company, where I worked, decided to make cuts. As I was not exactly happy, I was thankful for the decision they made for me. Do you know the feeling, when your are not content, but love your job and can’t leave? 

That was the pivot time. I applied to Estonian University of Life Sciences to study Nature based tourism, master’s degree.  

Some years ago it was common, that after school you studied in order to get a profession and you sticked to it for a life time. Not any more. Today its quite usual, that people are changing occupation several times. What is popular today and allows someone to make decent profit might not be same in 3 years. At the same time previous experience matters: its like layers in the cake, making flavours richier.

2 years later I had my diploma and a lot of knowledge about responsible tourism. The principles I use while choosing the trail and preparing the event. Especially, when it comes to hikes on the bog: timing is important. Even when it’s not officially regulated, there are some rules in order not to disturb wild life. 

img 1383

First hikes were with friends even before going to University. Thing is, I love organising things and previous logistic’s life definitely helps. Then I created Facebook page Estonia Nature Tourism, where information about coming events is shared – if you are not yet following it, now is the time. I love discovering new trails, there is some much to see, plants, forms of landscape, birds migrations in spring and autumn. Sharing it with others makes me content. Seeing  happy, satisfied faces after the hike – this is the reason Hiking Trails exists.

Read more at Nature trails

]]>