RMK Peraküla-Ähijärve

The RMK Peraküla-Ähijärve trail goes through a mix of landscapes. You’ll stroll along sandy beaches, through dense forests, and pass by lush grain fields. Then there are the breathtaking wetlands of Endla Bog and Emajõe-Suursoo Reserve, followed by the hilly pine forests of Põlva County. And don’t miss the top-notch landmarks in Võru County, making this hike a real gem!

Large chunks of this route follow gravel roads, so be prepared for some slightly duller but faster miles. The southern section, around Piusa, is the toughest – lots of dirt tracks on loose sand and hills, but they are also accompanied by beautiful hidden lakes where you can cool off on a hot day.

The best time of the year to hike the RMK Peraküla-Ähijärve hiking route is from early summer to early September. In early summer, the route is bug-free, but during the hottest time of the year the weather is pleasant and you can swim in the lakes and rivers along the route. Thanks to the facilities along the trail, it can also be tackled in the winter, using backcountry skis or snowshoes. The gravel roads along this route are kept passable all year round. During the summer months, it can get very hot (around 30 degrees Celsius) and the fire danger increases. During the winter the daylight hours are very short (4-6 hours) and it can get very cold (down to -25 degrees Celsius).

Always check local weather forecasts before starting your day – freezing rain in the winter and evening thunderstorms in the summer are normal.

Before you head out, do your research on the trail. This includes checking on factors like the trail’s difficulty, length, elevation gain, and terrain. Then, assess your physical and mental training in comparison! You can find more information here on HIKING-TRAILS.com, but also in guidebooks, by talking with hikers who have hiked this trail already, and by checking with local hiking organizations.

Share your hiking plans with someone you trust, including your start and finish dates, route, and any emergency contact information they need.

Check the weather each day before you start hiking. Avoid being in the backcountry during severe weather conditions, including thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, or extreme heat.

Bring enough water and snacks to keep your energy levels up and prevent dehydration and exhaustion. This usually means bringing at least two liters of water with you as a base amount.

Invest in the right hiking gear, including comfortable, supportive footwear, proper hiking clothing, such as warm base layers and a hardshell rain jacket, hiking poles, a well-fitted backpack, and essential equipment like maps, a GPS device, and a first-aid kit. Check out our comprehensive gear list for long-distance trails like this.

Respect the principles of Leave No Trace by minimizing your impact on the environment. Stick to designated trails, pack out all trash, and respect wildlife and natural habitats.