Plizio Visual Lab

Zelts Forest

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Forest

Weather…

Zelts Forest, which translates to 'Gold Forest', is a significant woodland area in the Vidzeme region of northeastern Latvia, known for its pristine natural beauty. The forest is deeply linked to the Zelti area, famous for hosting one of the most secretive Soviet nuclear missile bases, which has now been reclaimed by nature. Predominantly composed of Scots pine and Norway spruce, the forest provides a vast habitat for local wildlife, including lynxes, wolves, and black storks. The terrain is characterized by glacial formations, creating a mosaic of hills and wetlands that support a variety of rare mosses and lichens. This forest is a prime example of Latvia's commitment to preserving its silvicultural heritage, as forest cover accounts for over 50% of the nation's territory. During the autumn, the deciduous trees within the forest create a lively golden canopy that attracts photographers and nature enthusiasts from across the country.

Location: Latvia
Nearby: Jaunķemeri (19 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-4	-4	0	5	11	15	18	18	14	8	3	-1
Rain mm	52	43	41	43	44	69	72	73	55	71	68	57

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

Located west of Riga, this flat forest expanse is normally reached via the network of roads extending from the capital. Various forest service roads and local tracks provide multiple entry points for prospective visitors.

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Best season

Late spring, summer, and autumn are beautiful seasons to appreciate the deciduous and mixed tree canopies. Winter provides a quiet, snowy landscape, though some deeper forest paths may become impassable without skis.

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Terrain & paths

The forest floor is predominantly flat and even, making it wonderfully accessible for walkers of most fitness levels. The paths are mostly natural dirt and leaf litter, which can become soft and damp in wetter weather.

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What to bring

Comfortable walking shoes or light hiking boots are usually sufficient for this generally level and easy forest terrain. Bringing mosquito repellent is highly recommended during the summer months due to the dense vegetation.

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Parking

Informal parking spots are often available at the main forest entrances or along the wider approaching gravel roads. Ensure that vehicles never block any timber transport routes or critical emergency access barriers.

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Safety

It is advisable to stay on recognized tracks to avoid disorientation within the extensive and uniform flat forest area. During the warmer seasons, standard precautions against mosquitoes and ticks should be actively taken.

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Time needed

A typical leisurely walk through the deciduous and mixed woodlands takes roughly two to three hours. Visitors looking to deeply immerse themselves in the forest environment can easily spend a large part of the day exploring.

Geography

Coordinates

56.81230, 23.45120

Facts

The forest is located in the Vidzeme region of northeastern Latvia.
The name 'Zelts' is the Latvian word for 'gold'.
It neighbors the site of a former Soviet P-12 missile base.
Coniferous trees make up the majority of the forest canopy.
The area is home to protected species like the lynx.
Glacial ridges define the hilly topography of the forest floor.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Priedaine Hill8 km · SEExplore →

Kemeri Raised Bog10 km · NExplore →

Bat Necropolis13 km · SWExplore →

Jebel Misht16 km · NWExplore →

Wadi Damm18 km · NWExplore →

Jaunķemeri19 km · NExplore →

Bērze Rise19 km · SExplore →

Kaugurciems19 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is the Zelts Forest located?

This forest is located in the Vidzeme region and is known for its rich flora.

Is mushroom picking allowed in the forest?

Yes, picking berries and mushrooms in Latvian state forests is allowed for personal use.

Are dogs allowed in the forest?

Yes, dogs are allowed but should be kept on a leash to protect wildlife.

Are there marked hiking trails in the forest?

There are mainly natural forest paths, convenient for adventurers and nature observers.

When is the best time to visit?

Late summer and autumn are handy for berry picking and enjoying the autumn foliage.

Zelts Forest: where is it located?

Zelts Forest is located in Latvia.

Zelts Forest: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Zelts Forest: why is it worth visiting?

Zelts Forest, which translates to 'Gold Forest', is a significant woodland area in the Vidzeme region of northeastern Latvia, known for its pristine natural beauty.

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