If there are lakes everywhere in Tampere, it is also very easy to find proper forest nearby. Just 3.5 kilometres north-west from Tampere railway station and you find yourself in the middle of the forest in Kauppi. The large forest and recreation area of Kauppi-Niihama is the green lungs of Tampere city.
There are lots of things to do in Kauppi-Niihama, but one of my favourites is the nightly walks in the dark forest. I prefer to walk small, unmarked paths with my flashlight. But for many that may be too scary in an unknown forest. Thus, Niihama nature trail is the best start for the nightly forest adventure, because it is well marked, there are no lights and it starts and ends at a clear spot, Niihaman maja. Niihaman maja is a cafe in an old house and there are some fireplaces that can be freely used in the courtyard. It is situated about 7 kilometers from the railway station.
During summertime there is no proper dark time in Tampere but twilight. However, twilight is also a nice time to experience this 3,5 kilometer trail. The trail needs hiking shoes although it is pretty easy with tall trees and it has many infoboards on vegetation and animals (only in Finnish). The path is accessible year round!
