New R2 trail to open as a path between Oittaa and Pirttimäki in May
A new 13-kilometre path-like trail will be opened between Oittaa and Pirttimäki outdoor recreation areas in Espoo. The trail, which has been named R2, will be marked throughout and well suited for excursions, hiking, trail running and mountain biking.
The opening of R2 will take place on 9 May 2026 as part of Oittaa cycling event. This will mark the launch of the trail for outdoor enthusiasts. Guided mountain biking trips and other activities will also be organised on that day. Further information about the event can be found on the event page. The introductory rides have a pre registration.
UUVI / Helsinki-Uusimaa Outdoors' website will be updated with more detailed information on the trail and its gpx trace on the same day. Construction work on R2 will continue between Oittaa and Pirttimäki even after the opening ceremony, and hikers can check the updated situation of its completion on Uuvi's website(external link, opens in a new window).
R2 trail will be updated during the summer
The length of the trail to be opened in May is around 12 kilometres. As needed, you can only complete part of it or take some sections several times. The users' nature experience was taken into account when planning the trail, which meanders through the forest and around the lakes in the area. At the beginning, however, it first follows a wider outdoor trail both in Oittaa and Pirttimäki. The trail also crosses other outdoor trails in the area at several points. When selecting the route for the trail, existing paths have been used and new ones have also been built. Good user experience and durability were addressed in the planning of the trail; a durable surface has been laid on some sections, and duckboards have been provided in wet areas. R2 has its designated trail markings all the way.
It will be up to trail users to ensure that different groups can safely use the same path. Outdoor enthusiasts should show consideration for each other by setting a suitable speed for encounters and by announcing their approach, for example by ringing a bell or calling out. Saying hello and smiling will also be permitted on the trail.
Most parts of the trail are classified as a mountain biking trail of medium challenge. R2 contains both traditional sections with roots and rocky areas and meandering gravel-paved sections on gentle downhill or uphill slopes. On a few downhill sections, separate routes are provided for bikers and other users, and for safety reasons it is important to take the right one.
Outdoor activities in nature are constantly expanding and diversifying. In particular, there is a demand for built-up services and trails that are considered safe and easy to use. High-quality trails also save the environment by keeping users on sustainably designed and constructed routes. Oittaa and Pirttimäki are some of the most important areas for recreation and outdoor activities in Espoo, known for their good services and ski tracks in magnificent wooded landscapes. R2 will connect these two areas with a marked path.
Uuvi is developing R2 in close cooperation with the cities of Espoo and Helsinki. In the future, the plan is to expand R2 into a trail network that extends around the entire western capital region.
Oittaa cycling event invites the whole family to get moving
A cycling event will be held in the Oittaa outdoor recreation area on Saturday, May 9, 2026 from 10 am to 2 pm to celebrate the opening of the new mountain bike route!
At the event, you can try out different sports and get to know the sport and Espoo's diverse conditions. The event is open to everyone and free of charge.
The program is offered by clubs and cycling enthusiasts as well as other outdoor and cycling operators. Check out the detailed program and book your place for the youth mountain bike course and group tours in advance.
You can also easily reach Oittaa by bike or bus number 246 from the center of Espoo.
The event is organized by Visit Espoo and Espoo Liikkuu. The event is part of the National Cycling Week. More information on what happens in Espoo during th National Cycling Week.
Program
- Fillarikoulu for 10-13 year olds
- Beginner-friendly introductory rides on the new R2 mountain bike route
- Group run PK-Gravel half. Departures at 10 am from the event area next to the barn, distance approximately 90 km.
- Fun cycling route for the little ones
- Roller ski braking school
- Test new bike products
- Sisu-kävely – the latest trend in Nordic walking
- Introduction and trial of cycling orienteering
- Cyclocross presentation
- Trail construction point
Further information about the event can be found on the event page.
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