Foraging Chanterelles in Liesjärvi: Guided Mushroom Hunting from Helsinki
Spend a day foraging chanterelles in Liesjärvi National Park with a professional guide. Learn safe identification, enjoy a lakeside campfire lunch, and experience Southern Finland’s forest rhythms on a round-trip day tour from Helsinki.
The Experience
Before You Go
Trust the guide on edibility
Never consume mushrooms unless your guide identifies them—many poisonous species resemble edible ones.
Wear waterproof footwear
Forest floors can be wet and uneven; high-traction waterproof boots improve comfort and safety.
Bring a basket and knife
An open-weave basket helps spores disperse and a small knife keeps specimens clean for cooking.
Hydrate and plan for bugs
Carry water and a light insect repellent—mosquitoes and midges can be active near lakes in warm months.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Lakeside campfire clearings that double as perfect photo spots shortly after harvest
- •Quiet granite outcrops where chanterelles often fruit near sun-warmed pines
Wildlife
- •European elk (moose)
- •Capercaillie and forest songbirds
Conservation Note
The tour holds Sustainable Travel Finland credentials; practice leave-no-trace, avoid overharvesting, and let smaller or unknown specimens be to protect future seasons.
Liesjärvi is part of Finland’s network of national parks protecting southern Finland’s lakes and mixed forests and supporting traditional foraging culture.
What to Bring
Waterproof hiking bootsEssential
Keeps feet dry and provides traction on muddy, rooty forest floors.
Waterproof jacket and layersEssential
Finnish weather can change quickly—bring warm, breathable layers and a rain shell.
Mushroom basket and small knifeEssential
An open basket preserves specimens and a knife helps harvest cleanly.
Reusable water bottle and snack
Hydration and energy between hikes and before the lakeside lunch.
Common Questions
Do I need prior mushroom identification experience?
No—tours are guided and suitable for beginners; the guide teaches safe identification and handles doubtful specimens.
Where does the tour meet and how long is the drive?
Meeting point is in front of Kiasma museum (Mannerheiminaukio 1H in Helsinki); the drive to Liesjärvi is about 1 hour 20 minutes with a short bathroom stop.
Are meals included?
Yes—lunch, coffee and dessert prepared over the campfire are included; inform operators of dietary restrictions when booking.
What happens in bad weather?
The operator may cancel for poor weather; raincoats are provided and the tour follows safety and cancellation policies outlined at booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
7 hours (including transport)
Location
Helsinki, Uusimaa
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; participants should be able to walk 2–4 hours on uneven, sometimes boggy trails.
Ready to Explore Helsinki?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now