Snaps from the Oandu-Ikla hiking trail

It was another early summer day, when we left Tallinn behind with @raili and headed for the beautiful nature of Estonia.

We're not much of a hikers, we'd rather enjoy a short walk in nature along with a brief picnic, so that we did.

We parked our car near a bridge crossing the Valgejõgi (Whiteriver) and decided to hike a bit in both directions, as the nature is totally different on each side. Why do they call this river Whiteriver, when the tint is actually brown? Looking at the above photo, one might think the river is polluted, but this is not the case.

Water in estonian rivers obtains its brownish tint from the water plantation and rocks. If you look closely, the water is actually very clear. I will show a close-up later on :)

Hiking north from the bridge brings hikers to the Nõmmeveski canyon and waterfalls. These falls are small and can not be compared with some of the massive falls around the world, but hiking here is peaceful and serene.

Further along the river we found an old canal, used probably to divert water or close it's flow for some reason. The canal is mostly empty and the little water that is flowing in it, leaks out from hundreds of small holes.

Of course, we being the curious duo that we are, we went further to find the entrance to the canal. Or the end actually. And find it we did. Now just needed to climb in and line up that perfect shot for an abandoned feel.

The forest grows very thick around here and since we were not on the hiking trail, we decided to hike back and check the southern side of the bridge.

The nature here is even more to my liking. Firs, calm and quiet forest, signs from wild animals, peace and quiet from the city life.

After a brief walk we reached a beautiful camping site, which I have introduced to you ages ago. As you can see, the state takes care of its residents - grillplaces, fireplaces, picnic shelters.

There's a stairway taking you down to the river, to dip your toes in the water or for a midnight swim. Or if you're looking for some more action, a bit further, there's the old trusty tree-swing.

Below you can see how clear the water here actually is, despite of the brown tint.

We decided to walk along the riverbank for a few kilometers and enjoy the nature. The path in the forest dwindles along the river below, offering a beautiful overview of it and the nature around it.

Uh-oh, what animal left this mark? Probably just a cute little hedgehog, right? Right?

These ancient forests are the best part of Estonia. And if you're into gathering, you could probably fill your baskets with berries and mushrooms later in the year as well around these parts.

We hike a bit more and eventually head back for the campsite for a nice picnic and an end to our short trip.

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