The park occupies the site of an airfield that served as a base for Soviet aviation during the Siege of Leningrad.
A monument stands within the park dedicated to the pilots of the 44th Fighter Aviation Regiment who operated from this location during the war.
The forest composition is dominated by mature Scotch pine trees, which provide a high concentration of phytoncides.
During the winter, the sandy paths are converted into groomed tracks for classic and skating-style cross-country skiing.
The area was historically part of a rural landscape before being incorporated into the city's urban planning expansion in the mid-20th century.
This green space, locally known as Sosnovka Forest Park, is one of the largest urban parks in the Vyborgsky District of Saint Petersburg. It encompasses over 300 hectares of pine forest, characterized by its dense canopy and established network of sandy paths. The park was officially designated as a protected landscape area to preserve its natural ecosystem within the expanding northern suburbs. It functions as a primary recreational corridor for residents, featuring dedicated zones for cycling, cross-country skiing, and pedestrian walking. The topography is predominantly flat, with remnants of World War II-era trenches visible in specific restricted forest zones.
The memorial area dedicated to the aviation pilots, which provides a clean architectural focal point amidst the trees.
Bring insect repellent during the summer months, as the dense forest environment attracts mosquitoes.
Stick to marked trails to avoid getting lost in the dense, repetitive pine grid.
Rent a bicycle from nearby rental kiosks if you intend to traverse the entire park, as it is too large to explore on foot in a single visit.
Do not wander into the deep, unmarked sections of the forest after sunset due to poor lighting and navigation difficulties.
No open fires are permitted; please stay on paths to protect the forest undergrowth.
