The cultural and environmental path of Läppträsket lake

2.3 km long trail along a valuable bird lake, plenty of ancient remains and natural attractions

Several ancient remains and nature attractions lie along the cultural and environmental trail (about 2.3 km) of Läppträsket lake. The trail runs on the north and northwest side of the lake, and there you can e.g. explore remains from the Iron Age that have remained on the mounds that lie by the fields. Läppträsket is one of the most valuable bird lakes in Uusimaa, and there is a great opportunity to watch swans and other migrating bird species from the birdwatching towers especially during spring. The path is surrounded by varying types of nature, such as shore grove, rock forests, open farmlands, meadows and fields.

The Iron Age artefacts in Brobacka There are several types of artefacts from different eras in Brobacka that are remains from previous human activity. The structures located in the area are from the Iron Age (200-400 BCE) to the early 1900’s. There are two four-sided stacks and at least 9 heaps in Brobacka that are old graves and ovens. In addition, there are remains of an inhabited croft and other buildings that belonged to it from the early 20th century on the southern slope. The most known artefact that has been found in Brobacka dates back to the Vendel Period (600-800 BCE) and is a buckle that was used as a model to the Buckle from Karjaa by Kalevala Koru (Kalevala Jewelry). The Iron Age ancient remains in Lilla Näset and crematory grave field in Stora Näset A point where mixed forest grows lies near the Läppträsket shore. Here you’ll find the ancient remains of Lilla Näset, which include a rock that was used for sacrifice. Around it is a crematory grave field from the Migration Period (400-600 BCE). Three spearheads, pottery, and burnt bone have been found in the excavations in this area. The crematory grave field in Stora Näset is a hill with dense mixed forest and an outcrop on the top. The hill is surrounded by fields.

A birdwatcher’s paradise Läppträsket attracts birdwatchers around the year as about 160 different bird species are found in the region, of which about 100 nests in the area. During bird migration, there is an even greater variety of species because the area is an important resting and feeding site during migration. There are two birdwatching towers where birdwatchers can spot birds. Läppträsket is part of the Natura 2000 program and the national wetland conservation program. Location and getting around General information boards of the area are located in the entrance hall of Karis ABC petrol station. There are small information boards along the cultural path about the artefact sites, and a board about the birdlife is situated at the end of the path leading to the birdwatching tower. The walking trail to Läppträsket starts on the west side of Karis Shell and ABC petrol stations, next to AD Center. Highway 25 will be gone under through an underpass. At Läppträsket shore, the path crosses over to the east and the signs will lead you to the attraction sites. Läppträsket isn’t suitable for wheelchairs, due to uneven terrain. It is possible to get a nature guide who will tell you about the history, archaeology and ornithology of Läppträsket.