Häme by Cycle: East Strider’s Trail

The East Strider’s Trail is a 260 km circular route (3–5 days) with mostly dirt roads through the cultural and historical landscapes, ridges, lakes, and villages of the Häme Lake Uplands. Especially suited for gravel and touring bikes, it brings together urban services, wilderness, cultural sites, and a wide range of accommodation.

From ancient trade routes and forested ridges, the trail unfolds into lakeside villages, cultural landmarks, and tranquil countryside. Whether you choose to camp at lean-tos and campsites or stay comfortably in inns, cottages, and hotels, the route blends adventure, history, and natural beauty—offering both challenge and relaxation for cyclists and bikepackers alike.

In Tavastia Proper, two historic arteries once crossed: the Eastern Trade Route, which carried silver from Byzantium and the Arab world as early as the Viking Age (c. 800–1050), and the Hämeen Härkätie (“Ox Road of Häme”), a medieval route connecting Turku and Häme Castle. Along these roads travelled merchants, pilgrims, and messengers, bringing with them influences that shaped local culture.

During the Iron Age, Häme was part of a vast network linking East and West. Silver, pearls, and treasures flowed into the region, while furs, metalwork, and handicrafts travelled out. Alongside trade came stories, beliefs, and cultural influences that left a lasting mark on the region’s history.

The East Strider’s Trail connects Riihimäki, Loppi, Tammela, Forssa, and Hämeenlinna through charming nature destinations and local services.

Along the route, you will encounter beautiful natural sites such as the Komio Nature Reserve, Saari Folk Park, Pääjärvi Recreation Area, and Ahvenisto Nature Reserve. Parts of the trail also follow the Häme Ox Road, a historic route dating back to the Viking Age.

You can choose to camp in nature and at designated camping areas, or complete the entire journey without a tent by staying in guesthouses and hotels—just be sure to book accommodation in advance. Experienced cyclists will find the route suitably challenging, but it can also be enjoyed at a relaxed pace while taking in the surrounding landscapes.

Riihimäki – Räyskälä 67 km

Start: Riihimäki Railway Station

The route starts conveniently at Riihimäki railway station, offering excellent connections by public transport. Before heading out, Riihimäki’s services are a good place to stock up on snacks or grab any last-minute bike maintenance supplies.

Hyttikortteli

The first kilometres follow smooth city cycle paths. After about 3 km it’s worth checking your gear and making a short stop at Hyttikortteli, the historic glassworkers’ district. Its atmosphere, architecture and industrial heritage provide a unique cultural backdrop at the beginning of the ride.

Riihimäki Hunting Museum & Finnish Glass Museum

A short distance away you’ll find two museums. The Hunting Museum of Finland showcases Finnish hunting traditions and wilderness culture, while the Finnish Glass Museum is renowned for the artistry of Finnish glassmasters. Both are interesting detours if you have time before continuing the ride.

Paalijärvi & Hirvijärvi Lakes

The route shifts from cycle paths onto winding hard-packed gravel roads leading towards Paalijärvi. At Paalijärvi you’ll find a beach and a lean-to shelter – a perfect spot for a break. Just 2 km further is Hirvijärvi, also ideal for swimming or a rest in the peaceful surroundings. Here you can even rent a sauna by the lake. Both locations offer tranquil moments by the water.

Loppi village

From here the route follows well-maintained gravel roads with a few punchy climbs before reaching the shores of Loppijärvi. Continuing along the gravel, you arrive at Vanhankoski mill and power station museum, a site that reflects local history. The village of Loppi, about 35 km from the starting point, is a good place to refill supplies, enjoy a meal, and pause to plan the rest of the day – the next larger grocery store is 60 km away.

Komio Nature Reserve & Luutasuo

After Loppi, the route continues along Pilpalantie towards Komio Nature Reserve. A short but steep gravel climb at Pappilanlääni leads you into Luutasuo, where a campfire site by Luutalampi lake provides a peaceful rest spot. While enjoying your snack, you might see swans taking flight or hear the call of a red-throated diver.
Marked trails start from the Luutasuo parking area – Esteetön Samo (1 km), Pikku-Samo (3.5 km) and Luutaharjun Samo (6.5 km) – most are hiking trails, but some can be explored by bike. Overnight camping is only  allowed at Komionlampi camping site.

Marskin Maja & Räyskälä Village Shop

The ride through Komio takes you along scenic sandy roads through pine forests and ridges. After Komio, the terrain towards Räyskälä is known as “rollercoaster roads”: first the gravelled Eräläntie, then the paved Räyskäläntie. Both demand steady handling and are best enjoyed at an easy pace.

Before reaching Räyskälä, you can make a 2 km detour to Marskin Maja. In summer, its café and museum offer a memorable stop. Other possible day-break spots along the way are Pilkuttimen kota and Sähkönokka (note: no overnight camping allowed here).

At around 70 km you’ll arrive at Räyskälä village shop, the last chance to resupply before Tammela. Nearby you’ll also find the Räyskälä airfield restaurant and Camping Laakasalo, where camping with a tent is possible.

Räyskälä – Saaren Kansanpuisto – Tammela – Forssa (51 km total)

Hämeen Lake Uplands & Melkuttimen Road

From Räyskälä, the route turns onto Härkätie leading into the Hämeen Lake Uplands. This area has stunning lake and ridge landscapes – a perfect stretch to enjoy open views and forested scenery.

Porras & Saaren Kansanpuisto

Continuing along rolling gravel roads, the trail connects with Hämeen Härkätie before reaching Portaan village. Porta has historically been an important crossroads during the heyday of Hämeen Härkätie. Here you can stop at Portaan Nahkurinverstas for coffee, a snack, or to explore the unique tanned leather factory museum.
A short paved section then leads into one of the most scenic parts of the route: Saaren Kansanpuisto. This park features lush woodland trails, a restaurant, kiosks, beaches, and historical sites. Overnight camping is allowed only at the Raanpää lean-tos by Kuivajärvi. Nearby, Venesilta camping offers cabins and tent sites with additional services. Before leaving the park towards Tammela, take the opportunity to visit Kaukolanharju observation tower and the Albert Edelfelt memorial.

Saaren Kansanpuisto – Tammela (15 km)

Exiting the park, cross the old concrete Saarensalmi bridge, then follow bike path signs towards Suvikuja. After climbing Kukkuramäki, you continue along cycle paths to Tammela village. Tammela is a good place to refill food and drinks before the next section.

Tammela – Forssa

From Tammela, the route heads along the old church road via Syrjänharju, which includes some technical trail sections with small rocks – a short section may require walking the bike. The stage finishes at Forssa bus station, where you’ll find a market square, shops, and restaurants – a convenient end to the first part of the journey.

Forssa – Pääjärvi – Hämeenlinna (99 km)

Forssa – Häme Ox Road & Pääjärvi Recreation Area

Leaving Forssa bus station, the trail heads towards the Häme Ox Road, offering a historical journey reminiscent of the Viking Age. Before leaving Forssa, make sure you have enough water and food, as the next larger shop is over 60 km away.

The route passes Linikkalanlammi beach, a perfect spot to refresh early in the stage. Continuing along small gravel roads, you reach Mustiala Manor, a historic stop where you can enjoy the scenic surroundings and visit the rural museum.

From there, the trail leads to Pääjärvi Nature Recreation Area. East of Kuivajärvi, accommodation is available at Hykkilä cottages. The gravel road then turns into a forest track, climbing the steep Uudensillanmäki – ride carefully according to your skill level. At Pääjärvi, you’ll find swimming spots, lean-tos, and opportunities for overnight camping – a great place to enjoy a break before continuing.

Pääjärvi – Renko

After leaving Pääjärvi, the route returns briefly to Hämeen Härkäti before following the forest track-style Rauniotie to Pitkäjärvi farm. The ascent to the farm is steep and slippery when wet. The farm provides a scenic rest stop before heading to Nummenkylä village hall, which offers a café and beach.

Following rolling gravel roads, the trail reaches Rengon village. Here you can refill drinks and energy, visit the Häme Oxroad Museum, or use the rental lean-to at Kulttila village association.

From Renko to Hämeenlinna

Leaving Renko, the trail continues along varied gravel roads. Services are sparse, so carry sufficient food and water. The first café after Rengo is Jurevita, approximately 30 km away.

The trail rejoins Häme Ox Road, climbing the ridge at Ahvenisto. This section includes a short technical path where walking the bike may be necessary. The route continues through Punaportti and along Lake Vanaja to Hämeenlinna railway station.

Arrival in Hämeenlinna

Before the endpoint, consider a stop at Hämeenlinna Market Square for a café break. The city also offers Häme Castle, Vankilamuseo, and Museo Militaria. After reaching Vanajavesi, you can refresh at the swimming hall or beach. Overnight accommodation is available at Welcome Cyclist Hostel Naurava Kulkuri.

Hämeenlinna – Kiipula – Riihimäki (52 km)

Hämeenlinna – Lake Katumajärvi & Vanajanlinna

The third stage starts at Hämeenlinna railway station. The trail leaves the city via the local bike network, passing through suburban areas along the railway. About 3 km south of the station, you can visit the Kantola mural, a large and expressive public artwork – a local landmark and cultural highlight.

The route continues toward Katumajärvi, where the Honkalan ranta nature reserve offers beautiful views and a birdwatching tower. The trail skirts Vanaja Golf park and reaches Hotelli Vanajanlinna, a historic castle with surrounding scenic areas for a relaxing break. From there, the trail continues along a smooth torppari asphalt section to Harviala Manor, where a café provides a refreshing pause.

Turenki – Kiipula

The route then follows a gentle downhill gravel road alongside the railway to Tureng, passing Liinalampi, a swimming spot perfect for hot summer days. In Turenki, you can refill supplies in local shops or enjoy a meal at a restaurant.

From Turenki, the trail follows the short Kustaa Paturi park trail and a recreational path to Kiipula. Kiipula is a diverse stop offering accommodation and a wide range of activities, including Eläinpiha, frisbee golf, fitness stairs, trail running, hiking, and marked mountain bike trails. Rental options include Kiipula lean-to and Jussin laavu (firewood not provided). The Kiipula Vocational College facilities make it an excellent spot for a longer rest.

Kiipula – Riihimäki

From Kiipula, the trail follows gravel roads to Leppäkoski, where the seasonal pancake café is a great place for a snack. Cross the Puujoen bridge, with its fragrant tar scent, a perfect photo spot.

Continuing toward Ryttylä through rural landscapes, the route briefly uses paved village roads before turning onto the gravel shortcut to Kolmilammi. This area, embraced by ridges, features a traditional dance pavilion. Here you can enjoy a brief break or a short swim in the ponds. In the evening, looking north from the fields at Salpausselkä ridge offers a fantastic view – a perfect selfie moment.

The trail then continues through scenic farmland toward Riihimäki, following open gravel roads. Passing a local berry farm, you reach Highway 54, which requires careful crossing. The final short gravel section leads into the urban area and back to Riihimäki railway station, completing the circular route.

The Häme by Cycle routes have been created through the Häme by Cycle – Developing Cycle Tourism in Kanta-Häme project by LAB University of Applied Sciences and the Häme Nature Recreation Association. The project has been funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development for the 2023–2027 programme period.