Hlíðahringur in Heiðmörk Hiking trail
Hlíðahringur runs from Maríuhellar to Vífilsstaðavatn Lake, passing Grunnuvötn ponds, continuing along the Hjallar ridge, and then through the slopes of Vífilsstaðahlíð.
More information
Region
Höfuðborgarsvæðið, Garðabær
Starting point
Borgarstjóraplan
Markings
Marked trail, at regular intervals
Duration
2 - 3 hours
Surface
Mixed surface - e.g. soil, stones, grass
Obstacles
Step - A step, ledge, stair or low ledge that must be stepped on
Hazards
No hazards on the way
Service on the trail
No service
Lighting
Unilluminated
Period
Open all seasons
Hlíðahringur is an approximately ten-kilometre loop through the varied landscape of Heiðmörk, one of the most popular outdoor areas in the capital region. The route sets off from Borgarstjóraplan by Maríuhellar and runs toward Vífilsstaðavatn, past Grunnuvötn, along the Hjallar ridge and on through Vífilsstaðahlíð before returning to the start. It leads through birch woodland, lava and open heath, with fine views at times over Heiðmörk, Vífilsstaðavatn and the surroundings. The paths have been considerably improved in recent years and now mostly follow well-built trails, so the route is easy to hike. The elevation gain is moderate, around 140 metres in total, with several long but gentle climbs. The surface is mixed natural material, soil, gravel and rock, and the route is marked and clearly visible. Heiðmörk is managed by the Reykjavík Forestry Society (Skógræktarfélag Reykjavíkur), and more information about the area can be found at heidmork.is. Parking is available at the start.