Hiking in Latvia
Including Gauja National Park and Kemeri National Park. On the map.
The vibe
Walking here feels like moving through endless pine forests and bog boardwalks where the horizon stays flat and quiet under vast northern skies. Late summer and early autumn bring the best weather for long treks through damp moss and crisp air without heavy crowds. You will mostly share the paths with local berry pickers, keeping the vibe wonderfully self-guided and low-key.
Gauja National Park
Sigulda
Nikater / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Gauja National Park offers a diverse landscape of ancient river valleys, sandstone cliffs, and dense forests. Hikers can explore well-marked trails that wind through the Gauja River valley, passing by medieval castles and unique geological formations.
Access. Located near Sigulda, about an hour's drive from Riga. The park is easily accessible by train or bus from the capital, with most trailheads starting near the town center.
Notes. Best visited from late spring to early autumn; trails can be muddy during the spring thaw.
Kemeri National Park
Tukuma novads
Paul Berzinn / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Famous for its expansive raised bog ecosystems, Kemeri features iconic wooden boardwalks that allow hikers to traverse the delicate wetland landscape. The Great Kemeri Bog Boardwalk is a standout, offering a unique perspective on the moss-covered terrain and sulfur springs.
Access. Accessible by train from Riga to Kemeri station, followed by a short taxi or bike ride to the park entrance.
Notes. The boardwalk is very popular; visit early in the morning for the best light and fewer crowds.