Translation: Hólmfríður María Bjarnardóttir

Graphic/Margrét Aðalheiður Önnu-Þorgeirsdóttir

Although autumn is upon us and winter is fast approaching, there’s no need to put your hiking boots away just yet. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy around the capital region, and although the weather is getting colder, there are various hills and mountains to hike in the area. Below are some ideas of easy and scenic hikes that are neither too long nor too far away and are therefore perfect for study breaks or after school.

Nothing compares to time spent outdoors clearing your mind and getting some exercise between the day's tasks. All of the following routes are marked and should be suitable for most people. Note that although they are all of a similar distance, the elevation varies quite a bit from route to route, so it might be a good idea to start with the lowest elevation and move up from there.

As always when spending time in the great outdoors, you should check the weather forecast before heading out and make sure you have appropriate clothing, shoes, and gear. It’s also a good idea to bring water and snacks - even coffee to warm you up at the top. The golden rule is to always let someone know about your travel plans, because even if you’re not planning a long trip, something unexpected can always happen.

Helgafell in Mosfellsbær

Highest point 216 m, walking distance 6.5 km
By car: shortest route is from the University of Iceland (17.4 km)
GPS coordinates of parking lot: (64°10'42.2"N 21°40'07.5"W)
Not accessible by public transportation

Mosfell

Highest point 276 m, walking distance approx. 3.8 km
By car: shortest way from the University of Iceland (20,6 km)
GPS coordinates of parking lot: (64°11'07.9"N 21°37'12.1"W)
Bus stop: Háholt (Route 15) + Mosfell (Route 27), the second one must be booked at least 30 minutes before departure. More information available at Straeto.is

Stórihnúkur - Úlfarsfell

Highest point 295 m, walking distance approx. 4.6 km
By car: shortest route from the University of Iceland (12.8 km)
GPS coordinates of parking lot: (64°08'11.5"N 21°43'31.3"W)
Bus stop: Skyggnisbraut (Route 18)

Helgafell in Hafnarfjörður

Highest point 338 m, walking distance approx. 6 km
By car: shortest way from the University of Iceland (17.1 km)
GPS coordinates of parking lot: (64°01'34.7"N 21°52'30.1"W)
Not accessible by public transportation

Esjan to Steinninn (Esjan að Steini)

Highest point 597 m, walking distance approx. 6.6 km
By car: shortest way from the University of Iceland (21 km)
GPS coordinates of parking lot: (64°12'31.2"N 21°42'45.4"W)
Bus stop: Esjurætur – Hiking Center (Route 57)

Móskarðshnjúkar

Highest point 807 m, walking distance approx. 6.3 km
By car: shortest way from the University of Iceland (24.9 km)
GPS coordinates of parking lot: (64°13'23.2"N 21°33'07.1"W)
Not accessible by public transportation

Refreshing Hiking Trails in the Capital Region