Best hiking trails for children

Hiking in Estonia is perfect for kids — flat, accessible, and close to amenities. Here are the top trails and the best circular hiking routes.

Kids are drawn to nature as soon as they are old enough to explore on their own.

Estonia is a perfect place to introduce your little ones to the pleasures of hiking. Follow clearly marked hiking trails that lead to exciting places, and let your little ones experience the joy of exploring nature!

Thousands of kilometers of hiking trails crisscross Estonia. There is no shortage of trails to explore with your little ones, but we've put together a few of our favorites, plus additional attractions in the area.

Family taking photo in front of Keila Waterfall

Photo author: Virgo Haan

Keila Waterfall is a short drive or bus ride from Tallinn.

The waterfalls, manor stairs, and suspension bridges make the park feel like a fairytale!

North Estonia

West of Tallinn, you'll find the Keila-Joa Park nature trail.

Locals love it here – the waterfalls, manor stairs, and suspension bridges turn the park into a real fairytale! No wonder newlyweds come here to take photographs and add their wedding locks. Keila Waterfall is gorgeous in all seasons. During autumn, the entire area is awash in reds, oranges, and yellows. Wintertime brings chandeliers made of icicles, and summer offers a delightful display from the waterfall and its cascading foam. Children love exploring the waterfall up close — take care as sometimes the rocks can be slippery. Keila-Joa Manor and the Schloss Fall Museum make for perfect additions if you need to take a break and grab something to eat at their café.

West Estonia

If you're already on holiday in Pärnu, take a day to explore Soomaa National Park.

Riisa study trail is perfect for a family-friendly hike. The trail is rather wide, making it accessible to wheelchair users or parents with strollers. The viewing tower offers a superb view of Soomaa's infamous wetlands! Older children might want to try a canoe trip down one of the park's many rivers, while younger kids will get a kick out of the friendly animals at the Tipi Nature School.

Children hiking near a bog lake in North Estonia

Photo author: Günther Küttis

Photo author: Rasmus Jurkatam, Visit Tallinn

Family holidays in Estonia

Lounge on empty beaches, explore hands-on museum exhibits, meander through bogs on wooden boardwalks, and refuel at family-friendly restaurants!

South Estonia

Locals believe that the nature in South Estonia is the prettiest in the entire country.

Meandering rivers, sandstone outcrops, and picturesque lakes add to the region's many charms. The Taevaskoda hiking trail is a real gem. This is where you can see all the region's characteristics in one place. The riverbank above the Ahja River Valley is golden, the walls are covered in pine tree roots, and the water line hides various caves. If you want to take your kids to a place guaranteed to get them hooked on nature (and off their phones), this is the perfect spot. If you're already in South Estonia, then make sure to stop by one of Tartu's many kid-friendly attractions, especially the AHHAA Science Centre.

Hiiumaa

When compared to the larger and more popular Saaremaa, Hiiumaa is a well-kept secret.

The Orjaku study trail takes hikers through the reed beds of Käina Gulf, along long boardwalks, and to places where they can see a variety of interesting birds. Exploring forests with kids is best when the forest is not too wild. Boardwalks mean you'll get the children back to the car with dry feet and not completely covered in mud. The boardwalk takes you over wetlands, water, marshes – you'll feel like you're walking on water! Combine your hike with a visit to the Windtower Experience Centre. The entire family will find something to like about the interactive exhibits, not to mention the Baltic's highest indoor climbing wall!

Family hiking in Soomaa National Park in Estonia

Photo author: Siim Verner Teder, Visit Viljandi

What do you know about beavers and their habitats?

Look for signs of animal activity in Soomaa National Park.

Circular hiking trails in Estonia

No need to worry about return transport or walking the same path twice.

Circular hiking trails give you the chance to get to know the landscape of a particular area more closely than usual. And they come with the extra satisfaction of finishing your route exactly where you started!

Circular hiking trails in Estonia are especially good for family hiking trips. You can leave your car at the beginning, and the trail takes you right back to it at the end. Plus, you can find the right length for your little hikers; youngsters will enjoy hikes up to three kilometers, while your teens might be able to manage a route of five kilometers or more. Whether you come out for a solo hike or a family trip, all you have to do is enjoy your time in nature.