Mikonsaari nature trail, Lappeenranta

Mikonsaari is located in front of Lappeenranta, but by land the distance from the center is about 10 km. It is therefore well suited as a day trip destination. There is also a nature trail on Mikonsaari, which starts from the parking area opening to the right side of Mikonsaari road. Boots are needed in wet weather. On the Mikonsaari nature trail, one can observe a variety of natural types in a small area. The path goes through mature coniferous forest to a moist deciduous grove. From a high lichen-covered shore rock there is a magnificent view of the western Pien-Saimaa archipelago, and there is also a charming lean-to shelter with surroundings on the shore rocks.

According to an old local story, the island got its name when a mother and son escaped in a tar barrel from the Battle of Lappeenranta (1741), where Russians captured the city during the Lesser Wrath. The barrel landed on the island, and it is said the boy’s name was Mikko.

The maintenance of the Mikonsaari nature trail is the responsibility of the city of Lappeenranta.

The city of Lappeenranta opened a free boat rental service for crossing Pappilansalmi in September 2021. The approximately 150-meter-long rowing boat connection between Pappilanniemi and Pieni Lamposaari links the western and the under-construction eastern shore routes.

The crossing option also expands the area's cycling network as it opens a new route besides the shore routes to the Pappilanniemi and Mikonsaari nature trails as well as to the Taipalsaari scenic route. At the site of the former Pappilansalmi ferry, at the end of Isännöitsijäntie, three rowboats are available for rent. They can be used free of charge through an electronic reservation system. The boats are intended solely for crossing Pappilansalmi. More information and reservation instructions here.