Completed in 1981, the hiking lodge serves as an important base for a wide range of users: skiers, hikers, runners, cyclists and other active users of the area. The current building houses changing rooms, showers, toilets, two saunas and Café Palomaja – but increased visitor numbers have put the facilities under considerable pressure. Temporary solutions have already had to be put in place.
-“The number of visitors to the Paloheinä outdoor recreation area has increased significantly over the past ten years – which is no surprise, seeing as how the area’s exercise opportunities have been constantly improved and increased. It has to be said that the existing hiking lodge facilities are rather inadequate at peak times. For example, the toilet and storage facilities are limited and queues are frequently formed in the café. In general, the expectations for various ancillary services have increased with the development of the rest of the area, and service needs have been tackled through various temporary solutions, which is not a sustainable approach in the long term,” says Head of Recreation Services Stefan Fröberg.
“It's great to see how old regulars have been joined by more and more families with children and young exercisers, and the variety of sports facilities has, of course, also brought new users to the area. Now is the time to plan a service package that meets the needs of both today and the years ahead.”
According to a preliminary estimate, construction would start in early 2030. The data collection now being launched will serve as the basis for the project’s needs assessment, which will proceed to decision-making in early 2027.
Tell us how the Paloheinä hiking lodge could better serve you in the future!
What we would like to hear opinions on
We would like to particularly hear users' ideas on the following:
- What could be improved in the current facilities and services?
- What kind of new services could be introduced at the Paloheinä hiking lodge?
- Is there a need for special solutions for specific user groups – and what kind?
The area offers a wide range of recreational opportunities: ski trails, hiking trails, a sledding hill, exercise stairs, an outdoor gym, orienteering trails, a disc golf course, mountain biking trails, a climbing park, sports events, a golf course and an ice hall. What kind of base could the Paloheinä hiking lodge be in the future for the recreational users of the area?
Respond to the survey – make a real difference!
The survey will remain open until 19 April 2026. Respondents can choose to enter a prize draw for a chance to win one of five Mizu drinking bottles featuring the Helsinki logo.
Respond to the survey and tell us what you think the Paloheinä hiking lodge should be like to best support your daily life and physical activity.
