Mountain bike trails
Mountain biking in the beautiful nature of Suonenjoki will definitely be a memorable experience! The trails offer a challenge for those who are just getting to know the sport, as well as for those who have been cycling for a long time.
The starting points of the routes are the so-called ski park along Koulukatu, below the ice rink. You can also join the route safely along the routes, with route maps at the intersections. Parking spaces can be found in Onkilampi and Vanhamäki. The routes are marked with yellow paint markings and guide signs.
The routes can run in both directions, so watch out for the oncoming! Controlled situational speed brings security to everyone. The biking routes go in many places alongside the outdoor routes, and the cyclist is obliged to give way. Route users travel on the routes at their own risk.
The routes are maintained by the City of Suonenjoki / technical services. Active cycling enthusiasts and the skiing club Suonenjoen Latu have been involved in the planning and support of the route.
Enjoy your trip! Take pictures and feel free to publish them using hashtags #lintharju #suonenjoki #mtbsuonenjoki
Lintharju MTB routes
The routes in Lintharju are, to a large extent, beginner-friendly trails in canvas terrain. The hills in the ridge area can be challenging in places. There are no rocky sections along the routes. This is a low-threshold route where cycling is possible with an off-road bike. The route partly runs in nature conservation and Natura areas, and cyclists must respect the terrain and nature and stay on marked routes.
There are three route options: Palolampi (8 km), Onkilampi (15 km) and Tolmuslampi (18 km). Resting areas and campfire sites can be accessed from each of these. You can also cycle in Lintharju in the winter. There are 13 kilometers of uniform winter trails. The route follows the bottom of the Onkilampi route.
Simola MTB routes
Simola’s run can be reached from Lintharju at the intersections of Raatmaa and Käpylä. The route has a different profile and is more technical than the Lintharju route. In total, the route is 13.3 km long and includes a challenging section to Mount Simola. The easier route is 12.4 km, bypassing a difficult terrain.
The route is navigated in a slightly damp marshland, with long trees, a road and paths. It contains short, more rocky spots and rhizomes. In some places, the terrain may be very humid and you may need to wheel the bike.
The challenging part of Mount Simola is technical and demanding. The route to the crossroads is in a black square. The section has cliffs, rocks, roots and a steep uphill. It is recommended for experienced cyclists. Great views into the distance reward the mountain climber. Cycling on the Simola route is strictly forbidden in the winter, as the route partly runs along snowmobile routes. The route includes accommodation, camping and catering services. A sauna can be arranged upon request.
Koskelo MTB routes
There are two routes to Koskelo, from Suonenjoki and from Lintharju at the intersection of Kirjosuo to Vanhamäki. This section crosses Highway 9, so you must be very careful. The route is 7 km directly from Suonenjoki to Koskelo, or 12 km if you go around Kirjosuo and Rajakorpi.
The terrain is more demanding than in Lintharju. The route runs through swamps and duckboards, under the power line, and on roads and paths. It also involves ditch crossings, rocky sections and a section of mounds. In some places, the terrain may be very humid and you may need to wheel the bike. Cycling on the Koskelo route is strictly forbidden in the winter, as the route runs partly along snowmobile routes. Among other things, you can find lunch places and a sauna upon request.
Mountain Biking Etiquette
Wherever you go mountain biking, please follow the ”Rules of the Trail” to make sure you avoid disturbing nature and other visitors.
- Nature and trails through natural areas belong to everyone.
- Give due consideration to other visitors.
- Take care with your speed for the sake of everyone’s safety.
- Since you as a cyclist are travelling faster, it is your responsibility to avoid collisions with those who are moving slower than you, e.g. hikers.
- Ride responsibly to prevent erosion.
- Stay on the trails and routes designated for biking.
- Avoid sudden heavy braking, and stay away from any natural areas sensitive to erosion.
- Follow local rules and regulations in natural areas, and leave no trace of your visit.
- Consider the rights and needs of local residents, landowners, and the people who look after the trails.
- Enjoy the chance to explore Finland’s natural areas under Everyman’s Right, but do not forget the responsibilities that come along with these rights.
- Downhill riders yield to uphill riders (unless the trail is clearly marked as one-way)
The emergency number in Finland is 112. You can call 112 from a foreign mobile phone connection, too. Consider downloading the 112 Suomi application beforehand. It enables automatic delivery of your coordinates to the emergency service dispatcher, when dialing 112.