Short hiking routes close to Reykjavik
1. Rauðhólar Lava Craters (45–60 min)
Where: 15 min drive southeast, inside Heiðmörk Nature Reserve.
Trail: A 3 km loop through a cluster of red and black lava craters formed 5,000 years ago.
Scenery: Colorful volcanic rock, wildflowers in summer, birdwatching opportunities.
Why go: It feels like walking on another planet, yet it’s only minutes from downtown Reykjavík.
2. Grótta Lighthouse Coastal Walk (60–90 min)
Where: Seltjarnarnes peninsula, 10 min drive from center.
Trail: Coastal path of 3–4 km round trip, mostly flat and easy.
Scenery: Atlantic ocean, tidal pools, seabirds, and sunsets. In winter, northern lights often appear here.
Why go: A romantic, wind-swept seaside walk that combines nature, history, and perfect photo spots.
3. Elliðaárdalur Valley (60–90 min)
Where: Within Reykjavík, east side of the city.
Trail: 4–5 km loop along riverside paths with several bridges.
Scenery: Waterfalls, salmon rivers, wooded trails, and picnic areas.
Why go: A green oasis inside the city, peaceful and family-friendly — you forget you’re in the capital.
Where: Ferry from Skarfabakki harbor (15 min).
Trail: Easy 3–5 km walking paths circling the island.
Scenery: Views of Reykjavík skyline, historic stone houses, Yoko Ono’s Imagine Peace Tower, and wildlife.
Why go: A car-free island where nature and history blend — perfect for an evening or half-day escape.
5. Úlfarsfell (90–120 min)
Where: Mosfellsbær, 20 min drive north.
Trail: Steep but short 4–5 km round trip to the 296 m summit.
Scenery: Expansive views over Reykjavík, Faxaflói Bay, and surrounding mountains.
Why go: A “mini-mountain” that rewards hikers with summit views in under 2 hours.
6. Heiðmörk Woodland Walks (60–90 min)
Where: 20 min drive southeast.
Trail: Network of easy 2–4 km loops through birch woodlands and lava fields.
Scenery: Lakes (Elliðavatn), mossy lava, birdlife, and Iceland’s largest tree-planting area.
Why go: A favorite spot for locals — peaceful, accessible, and family-friendly.
7. Búrfellsgjá Lava Canyon (90–120 min)
Where: Near Hafnarfjörður, 25 min drive.
Trail: About 4 km hike into a lava gorge carved by a volcanic eruption 8,000 years ago.
Scenery: Towering lava walls, moss-covered stones, dramatic geological formations.
Why go: Walking through this canyon feels like stepping inside Iceland’s volcanic history.
8. Helgafell Hafnarfjörður (90–120 min)
Where: South of Hafnarfjörður, 20 min drive.
Trail: 4–5 km round trip to the 340 m summit, moderate difficulty.
Scenery: Lava fields stretching to the ocean, mountain panoramas, and peaceful nature.
Why go: A short mountain hike with incredible views — and fewer crowds than Esja.
9. Mount Esja (Esjan) – Steinn Trail (90–120 min)
Where: 25 min drive north, near Mosfellsbær.
Trail: 5 km round trip to “Steinn” viewpoint (not full summit). Moderate incline.
Scenery: Wide vistas of Reykjavík, Faxaflói Bay, and surrounding peaks.
Why go: Reykjavík’s signature mountain — easily accessible and rewarding, with paths for all levels.
