The Capital Region (Höfuðborgarsvæðið) of Iceland is the country's most populous and vibrant area, centered around Reykjavik, the world's northernmost capital city. It encompasses seven municipalities including Reykjavik, Kópavogur, Hafnarfjörður, Garðabær, Mosfellsbær, Seltjarnarnes, and Kjósarhreppur, together forming Iceland's cultural, political, and economic heart. The region blends dramatic volcanic landscapes, steaming geothermal pools, world-class museums, and a legendary nightlife scene unlike anywhere else on earth.
Top trails
Routes worth lacing up your boots for.
-
1
Mount Esja — Þverfellshorn Trail
The Capital Region's most popular hike ascends the iconic flat-topped mountain that dominates Reykjavik's northern skyline. The well-marked trail from Esjustofa café climbs through lava fields and boulder terrain to a subsidiary summit with spectacular panoramic views of Reykjavik, Faxaflói Bay, and the Snæfellsnes glacier on clear days.
-
2
Reykjavik Coastal Trail
A spectacular city coastal walk along Reykjavik's seafront from the Seltjarnarnes lighthouse peninsula along the harbor, past Harpa Concert Hall, through the Old Harbour, past Nauthólsvík beach, and continuing to Laugardalur. The trail passes the Sun Voyager sculpture and offers constant views of Mt. Esja across the bay.
-
3
Heiðmörk Rauðhólar Pseudocrater Loop
An easy loop trail through Heiðmörk reserve's most dramatic feature — the Rauðhólar (Red Hills) pseudocrater cluster. These 50+ rust-red volcanic cones formed when lava flows over a wetland caused explosive steam eruptions, creating a surreal mini-landscape of hollowed craters and red volcanic earth.
-
4
Elliðaárdalur Valley Trail
A surprisingly wild riverside walk through Reykjavik's backyard salmon river valley, just 10 minutes from the city center. The Elliðaár river flows through birch forests and lava fields, and in late summer (August-September) Atlantic salmon can be seen leaping up the Elliðaárfoss waterfall — an astonishing sight so close to a capital city.
-
5
Hafnarfjörður Hellisgerði Lava Park
A magical walk through a centuries-old lava field park in the heart of Hafnarfjörður, transformed by generations of careful planting into a garden of hidden paths, mossy lava tunnels, and hidden corners supposedly inhabited by Iceland's hidden elves (huldufólk). The unique atmosphere and proximity to Reykjavik make it an excellent short excursion.
-
6
Öskjuhlíð Hill Forest Walk
The wooded hillside below Perlan museum is covered in Iceland's only significant urban forest, planted as a reforestation project since the 1950s. A network of paths winds through birch woodland with views over the city and down to Nauthólsvík beach. A perfect short walk combining nature with a visit to Perlan at the summit.
-
7
Seltjarnarnes Peninsula Walk
A coastal walk to the tip of the Seltjarnarnes peninsula, ending at the Grótta lighthouse and geothermal pool. The walk offers views of Mt. Esja, Reykjavik skyline, and the open Atlantic, with outstanding birdwatching along the shoreline. The small geothermal pool at Grótta is a local secret hot tub.
-
8
Mosfellsdalur Valley Walk
The river valley behind Mosfellsbær town, 15 minutes from Reykjavik, offers gentle walking along the Varmá geothermal river through birch woodland and open moorland. The valley leads to Þingvallavatn Lake and connects to the Golden Circle area, making it a great half-day escape from the city.
Trail difficulty levels
Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.
Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.
Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.
Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.
Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.
When to hike
Seasonal conditions in Capital Region.
- Spring
- March-May — paths clearing but Esja upper section may have ice; crampons sometimes needed; days lengthening rapidly
- Summer
- June-August — best conditions for all trails; long daylight hours enable evening hikes; very busy on Esja weekends
- Fall
- September-October — excellent conditions, beautiful autumn colors, golden light; quiet compared to summer
- Winter
- November-February — low-level trails accessible in good conditions; Esja upper section often icy or snowbound; crampons and ice axes needed for summit attempts
Local hazards
What to watch out for on the trail.
Hazard: Weather changes rapidly in Iceland — always carry waterproofs even on sunny days
Hazard: Mt. Esja's upper section has loose scree and can be icy from October to May
Hazard: Arctic terns at Grótta and Seltjarnarnes aggressively dive-bomb hikers in breeding season (May-August) — carry a stick above head
Hazard: Geothermal areas and hot springs along trails can cause severe burns — never step off marked paths near steaming ground
Hazard: River crossings in Mosfellsdalur can be higher in spring melt and after heavy rain
Hazard: Hypothermia risk exists year-round — dress in layers and never start a hike underprepared for cold