Best Hikes Around Reykjavík
For nature lovers, there is nothing quite like experiencing the beauty of Iceland’s landscapes on foot. After all, the true spirit of the island lies beyond the pavement. Fortunately, if you are based in the capital, you don’t have to travel far to find exceptional hiking trails. From gentle paths through hidden valleys to rugged volcanic ridges, the area offers something for every type of explorer. Here are the best hikes around Reykjavík to help you connect with the Icelandic wild.
Easy Nature Walks Within Reykjavík
There’s no need to leave the city limits to find tranquility and beautiful scenery. These beginner-friendly hiking trails provide a gentle escape into nature that feels worlds away from the urban bustle.
Elliðaárdalur
Location: Reykjavík
Estimated Distance and Time: 4–6 km (2.5–3.7 miles) / 30 minutes to 2 hours
Nestled within the capital, Elliðaárdalur is a local favorite for its network of paved and gravel walking trails. Following the Elliðaá river, you’ll pass through green open spaces, patches of woodland, and gentle river rapids. It’s more of a relaxed nature walk than a strenuous hike. The valley is ideal for families, runners, and anyone looking for an easy outdoor escape close to the city. Despite its urban setting, the peaceful surroundings and river views make it easy to forget you’re still in Reykjavík.
Rauðavatn Lake
Location: Edge of Reykjavík
Estimated Distance and Time: 5 km (3.1 miles) / 1 hour
On the eastern outskirts of Reykjavík, this peaceful lake is encircled by a scenic loop perfect for an easy day hike. Even a simple circuit around the lake makes for a relaxing outing. Paths wind through reforested areas and open landscapes overlooking the water and nearby hills. In winter, the lake may freeze over, and locals sometimes venture onto the ice.
Rauðavatn Lake sits on the edge of Heiðmörk, a larger nature reserve with extensive hiking trails. So, it’s also a great starting point if you want to extend your route further into the surrounding area.
Best Hikes Around Reykjavík for Adventurers
For those seeking a bit more elevation and a true sense of the wild, these trails offer a rewarding challenge. These are the more rugged adventures where the terrain gets steeper, and the landscapes become increasingly dramatic.
Mount Esja
Location: Kjalarnes
Estimated Distance and Time: 3 km (1.8 miles) to Steinn (one-way) / 2–5 hours
Dominating the city skyline, Mount Esja is one of the most iconic and popular hikes in the area. The trail starts at the well-marked Mógilsá trailhead. From here, visitors can choose between several different hiking trails, ranging from steady, beginner-friendly climbs to more demanding, rocky sections.
Many visitors aim for “Steinn,” a large boulder that’s a popular turnaround point and reachable via a relatively moderate ascent. For those continuing higher, the trail becomes steeper and more rugged, with some scrambling required near the upper sections. Reaching the summit is more challenging and best suited for experienced hikers. The view from the top is a wonderful reward, with the vistas of Reykjavík, Faxaflói Bay, and the surrounding mountains.
Glymur
Location: Hvalfjörður
Estimated Distance and Time: 7 km (4.3 miles) / 3.5–4 hours
For those seeking a more adventurous hike, Glymur leads to one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls. The trail begins near scenic Hvalfjörður and winds up a dramatic canyon, with stunning views of cascading water and the surrounding valley. Along the way, hikers may need to cross a river on a log and navigate steep, cable-assisted sections. Many complete the route as a loop, ascending along one side of the canyon and descending on the other.
This is a more challenging excursion, but it remains one of the best hikes around Reykjavík. The view from the top of the canyon is among the most dramatic in West Iceland.
Reykjadalur
Location: Hveragerði
Estimated Distance and Time: 7 km (4.3 miles) round trip / 3 hours
Another popular day hike near Reykjavík is Reykjadalur, famous for its geothermal activity characterized by steaming vents and hot springs. The trail climbs gradually from the trailhead above Hveragerði, offering open views of the surrounding hills as you make your way inland.
The highlight is the warm thermal river, where hikers can relax in naturally heated water after the moderate trek. Wooden walkways and basic changing areas make it easier to access the best bathing spots. The area can be busy, especially in peak season.
Úlfarsfell Mountain
Location: Hafravatn
Estimated Distance and Time: 4–5 km (2.5–3.1 miles) / 1.5 hours
Often overshadowed by its larger neighbor, Esja, Úlfarsfell is a rewarding hike that remains close to the city. Several hiking trails lead to the summit, varying from steeper, rocky paths to more gradual gravel tracks. At the antenna-topped peak, hikers are treated to a spectacular panoramic view of Reykjavík, Faxaflói Bay, and the Reykjanes Peninsula. It is an ideal short hike for those who want “big mountain” views with relatively moderate physical effort.
Búrfell and Búrfellsgjá Lava Canyon
Location: Heiðmörk
Estimated Distance and Time: 7–8 km (4.3–5 miles) / 2–3 hours
This hike offers a two-for-one experience within the Heiðmörk nature area, known for its lava fields and forest trails. One highlight is Búrfellsgjá, a dramatic volcanic fissure where you can walk between rugged lava walls shaped by ancient eruptions. From here, trails lead toward Búrfell, a well-defined volcanic crater whose rim offers stunning views over the surrounding landscape. Whether you explore the canyon, the crater, or both, it’s a fascinating journey through Iceland’s volcanic past.
To better understand the forces that shaped this landscape, consider visiting Perlan’s Forces of Nature exhibition. This exhibit explores the plate tectonics and eruptions behind features like Búrfellsgjá.
Heiðmörk Nature Reserve
Location: Southeast of Reykjavík
Estimated Distance and Time: Varies (over 40 km / 25 miles of trails) / 1–4 hours
Heiðmörk is one of Reykjavík’s most popular outdoor recreation areas. Beyond landmarks like Rauðavatn and Búrfellsgjá, it offers a network of trails winding through reforested areas, lava fields, and open landscapes. It’s a great place to experience the diversity of Icelandic nature close to the city. Here, you’ll have opportunities to spot birdlife and explore varied terrain. From short strolls to longer hikes, Heiðmörk features well-maintained paths that are some of the best hikes around Reykjavík.
A Post-Hike Finale at Perlan
After exploring the best hikes around Reykjavík, there’s no better way to cap off your adventure than with a Perlan visit. The landmark sits atop Öskjuhlíð, a wooded hill crisscrossed with walking trails that make for an easy city escape. It’s an ideal place to stretch your legs among the trees before exploring the immersive exhibitions on Icelandic nature inside.
To fully appreciate the landscape you’ve explored, head up to the Perlan Observation Deck. From here, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Reykjavík and surrounding mountains, including some of the peaks featured on this list. Watching the sun dip toward the horizon is a fitting finale after a day spent discovering Iceland’s striking landscapes.
FAQs
What are the top-rated day hikes accessible from Reykjavík?
Both locals and visitors often flock to Mount Esja, widely considered one of the best hikes around Reykjavík. Glymur waterfall and the Reykjadalur thermal river are also popular hikes for dramatic scenery and unique geothermal experiences.
Are there easy hiking trails near Reykjavík suitable for beginners?
Yes, Elliðardalur and Rauðavatn offer flat, well-maintained paths within the city limits that are perfect for a relaxed walk. For a slight incline with a rewarding view, Úlfarsfell provides a beginner-friendly climb overlooking the capital.
What are the best scenic viewpoints on hikes close to Reykjavík?
The summit of Mount Esja offers an unrivaled look over Faxaflói Bay. For city views, the observation deck at Perlan and the top of Úlfarsfell are hard to beat.
What is the best time of year for hiking around Reykjavik?
While some trails are accessible year-round, the prime hiking season is from June to September with mild weather and longer days. If you hike in the spring or winter, be prepared for icy patches and bring microspikes for safety.
Do I need a guide for these hikes?
Most trails near the city, such as Esja, are well-marked and suitable for independent hikers in good conditions. For more demanding routes like Glymur in poor weather, or for glacier hikes elsewhere in Iceland, a professional guide is recommended.
