Various activities in nature
In addition to traditional outdoor activities and hiking, nature offers a wide range of things to do. Sometimes trying something new and different can make even an experienced hiker see nature from a fresh perspective. Often, the only limit to what you can do in nature is your imagination—as long as you remember to respect other visitors and the environment.
Nature photography
Taking photos has never been easier, as almost every mobile phone has a camera. Since people carry their phones everywhere, photography has become a natural part of everyday life. For many, nature is a place to disconnect from technology, but in some cases, technology can help create entirely new outdoor experiences.
Anyone can try nature photography, and the camera on a phone is a good place to start. Walking in nature with a camera makes you notice details you might otherwise miss. A sunset can make an ordinary landscape look like a painting, while a small flower growing among shoreline rocks or an ant walking on moss can be just as fascinating up close. There is no shortage of subjects in nature, and everyone can photograph whatever interests them.
Nature photography is easy to start in your own backyard or nearby forest. Even a small area offers plenty to photograph if you take a moment to look closely. A familiar forest trail or picnic spot can reveal something new and wonderful when explored with a camera. A short walk can easily turn into a long outing as you get absorbed in photographing nature’s details. Later, you may notice you didn’t have time to think about everyday worries—you were too busy observing nature.
Explore nature photography and see the nature photos of the year here
Nature is full of small details.
In the forest, light and shadow make great photography subjects.
Nature holds great power.
Photographing organisms requires patience.
Living creatures are capable of amazing things.
Geocaching
Geocaching is a slightly different way to enjoy Finland’s nature. It is a modern form of treasure hunting where participants search for caches made by other enthusiasts using a GPS device or a map.
Geocaching is suitable for all ages and can be done in many ways. Caches can be found in city centres as well as in national parks. It is easy to combine geocaching with a nature trip or even a dog walk. Caches come in many varieties: some are easy to find, while others may require solving puzzles or riddles. A typical cache is a small plastic container, although they come in various sizes.
Geocaching is easy to try because all you need is a GPS device (such as a smartphone) and a user account on geocaching.com. Creating an account is free, and once logged in, you can see cache locations displayed on a map. Choose a cache that suits you—and you’re ready for the treasure hunt.
There are also many geocaches in the Aura River Valley, some placed at notable sites in the area. You can find caches, for example, at Halistenkoski in Turku, at Vanhalinna in Lieto, and at Nautelankoski in Lieto. Next time you want to try something new in the Aura River Valley, you can head out to search for geocaches.
More information about geocaching can be found here
Plogging
Plogging is an activity originating from Sweden that has become a global trend combining jogging with cleaning up nature. The term comes from the words “jogging” and the Swedish “plocka upp” (to pick up). For those who prefer a Finnish equivalent, the word *roskajuoksu* works just as well.
The idea of plogging is to do a bit of good while out jogging, walking, or running. Although few people admit to littering, trash unfortunately accumulates everywhere to some degree. Picking up litter adds variety to your run through squatting, reaching, and bending. These varied movements improve balance and mobility—not to mention the satisfaction of helping to keep nature clean. Clearing litter is a way to give back to nature, which offers us so much in return.
Plogging is easy to practice: all you need is a trash bag (and gloves). Some prefer litter-picking tongs to keep their hands clean. Plogging can also be done while cycling or paddling—the style is up to you!
Tip: by using the hashtag #ploggingfinland you can share your posts with others in the plogging community, for example on Instagram.
Cover image: Suvi Hakulinen, Aurajoki Foundation