Puijo Peiposenrinne (Etelä-Puijo)

Puijo is one of Kuopio's most popular nature destinations, known for its old spruce forests, rich deciduous vegetation and magnificent scenery. The area is crisscrossed by several outdoor recreation routes, which are ski tracks in winter, as well as smaller, frequently used forest paths. Due to its extensive size, Puijo is excellent for outdoor exercise and forest trekking. One marked mountain biking trail runs through the area; mountain biking is prohibited on other paths and off-path. Its unique natural values make Puijo a great environmental education destination, also suitable for group teaching. The southern part of Puijo is a nature reserve with a magnificent old spruce forest. A path called Puijon polku, approximately two kilometres long, runs through the nature reserve. The starting points of the path are at the end of Puijonrinteentie and at the top of Puijo. The elevation difference along the route is over one hundred metres, which is why it is not suitable for those in poor physical condition. Puijo forest can be accessed on foot and by bicycle from nearby residential areas. Several bus lines run around the ridge, and many stops are right at the edge of the forest. The top of Puijo can usually only be reached by bus in summer. The elevation differences make Puijo's terrain challenging: generally, Puijo is not accessible. People with mobility impairments can practically only reach Puijo Tower in the southern part of Puijo.