Visitors from around the world head to Iceland to explore the trails, and with good reason. Iceland‘s natural wonders and vast landscape offer inescapable opportunity to witness sublime natural beauty. For travelers staying in Reykjavik, the city and its nearby environment offer plenty of fun and challenging hikes where one can enjoy fantastic views, clean and fresh air, running rivers and outlandish landscape.
One of Reykjavik’s hiking trails is at Mount Ulfarsfell, 15km outside of downtown Reykjavik.
How to get there:
Ulfarsfell is located between Reykjavik and Mosfellsbaer, although as a visitor you will probably think you are still in Reykjavik. If traveling by car, You will have to drive for about 15km from downtown Reykjavik. Just follow road 1 like you are heading out of the city to the west. There will be a sign on your left saying Mount Ulfarsfell. Take the first exit on the nearby roundabout. You can also get there by bus. First you take bus 15 from Hlemmur to bus stop Ártún. Then you change to bus 57 at Ártún. Get off the bus at the “Úlfarsá” bus stop.
The route from Hallgrimskirkja church to mount Ulfarsfell on Google Maps.
Mount Úlfarsfell suits both the very dedicated hikers as well as those who are less experienced. There are many different marked trails leading to the top, ranging in difficulty. The distance for the easier hike is 1,7km and 1,6km for a more difficult hike that will take you uphill, making it more challenging compared to the easier route. You can expect between 45 minutes to 1,5 hour of hiking, depending on your physical form, age, experience and so forth.
Today mount Ulfarsfell welcomes thousands of visitors every year to explore its trails and either walk, hike or run up the hills to witness the towering view over Reykjavik, with sights all the way down to Hallgrimskirkja church and to the nearby towns and surrounding mountains. When the sky is clear, you can even see Snaefellsjokull glacier in the distance. You will for sure meet some locals on your way up or down, making this hike the perfect oppurtunity for travelers to participate in a local activity.
Please note: It is not recommended to hike Ulfarsfell during winter time, except for professional hikers with appropriate gear.
