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Two mountain bikers have stopped on a forest trail to chat.

Article categories: News

The outdoor activity trail network is now completed – welcome to the opening!

Published: 4.9.2025

Vaasa’s outdoor activity routes, covering approximately 70 km, have now been joined into a single, unified network. The trail network will be officially opened with an outdoor event on Saturday, 20 September 2025, from 11 to 14 at the Metsäkallio fitness track car park, along Pohjolankatu.

Crêpes, coffee, juice and tea will be served to the first 400 participants by the City of Vaasa. The event is free of charge and everyone is warmly welcome to join.

The programme features group trail rides led by Trail Riders, suitable for cyclists of all skill levels. Students from VAMIA’s Tourism Service programme will organise a nature-themed adventure trail for children. Jukka Talvi, Head of Public Utility Services, and Mika Lehtonen, Director of Sports, will deliver the official opening speeches. Various organisations will also have presentation booths at the event.

Attendees are encouraged to leave their cars at home and arrive on foot, by bike, or by bus. The Metsäkallio fitness track car park will be closed for the duration of the event.

Focus on signage and accessibility

Work to unify Vaasa’s outdoor activity trail network began in 2022. Over the past three years, the trails have been improved, unified signage has been installed, and a modern digital map of the network has been created.

– The goal has been to develop high-quality, easily accessible local recreation areas and encourage residents to enjoy outdoor activities in nearby nature. Some of the routes have been made accessible, says Jari Kiveliö, Head of Sport Facilities.

The network’s trails run through city-owned land across various neighbourhoods. The trails feature fire pits, bathing beaches, playgrounds, outdoor fitness areas, and other points of interest. The trails are marked with signposts, information boards, and a digital map.

Vaasa has been named a European Green Leaf City for 2026. The European Commission awards this recognition annually to cities that promote sustainable development and work systematically for the environment and climate. 

The opening of the outdoor activity trail network is part of the nationwide Trail Week.