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.
| Distance | 8km return |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3-4 hours |
| Difficulty | moderate |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Esjustofa, Kjalarnes (north of Reykjavik)
Weather through the year in Capital Region
Best time Shoulder Worth avoiding
Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for Capital Region.
Highlights
- 360° panoramic views over Reykjavik
- Faxaflói Bay vistas
- Snæfellsjökull glacier views on clear days
- Rocky summit terrain
- Steinn ('The Stone') balancing rock near the summit