Soomaa National Park
Soomaa rahvuspark
A national park known as the “Land of Bogs.” Its Riisa bog boardwalk and spring “Fifth Season” flood canoeing are unique Estonian experiences.
Soomaa means “land of bogs.” Located about 40 to 60 km northeast of Pärnu, it is one of Europe's best-preserved raised bog areas. The most popular Riisa Bog Trail is about 4.8 km long. Its wooden boardwalk passes through moss, small lakes, and dwarf pines, with an observation tower, and you can even swim in the bog pools. Each spring, snowmelt floods the rivers over forests and meadows, creating a flood period known as the “Fifth Season,” when you can paddle canoes through the submerged woodland. Other activities include dugout canoe carving experiences and hiking in bog shoes. Entry is free. You need your own car or a tour group, and the visitor center is in Kõima.
Opening hours
Open all day; visitor center approx. 10:00–18:00 in summer
Nearby sights
- Tori Hell Cave
- Tori Stud Farm
- Lottemaa Theme Park
- Nigula Nature Reserve
- Pärnu Coastal Meadow Nature Trail
- Tervise Paradiis Water Park
- Museum of New Art
- Koidula Park