Þingmannaleið Hiking trail
A marked hiking trail starting from Systragil Camping, ascending over the heath, and descending to the farm Eyrarland in Eyjafjörður. Along the route, you'll encounter a remarkable stone bridge constructed in 1871. From the hilltop, you can enjoy stunning views of Eyjafjörður and Fnjóskadalur.
More information
Region
Norðurland, Þingeyjarsveit
Starting point
Systragil stands by road no. 833, about 2 km off road no. 1.
Markings
- Marked trail, at regular intervals
- Marked trail with signs that guide the way
- Marked trail with cairns
Duration
3 - 4 hours
Surface
Mixed surface - e.g. soil, stones, grass
Obstacles
- Step - A step, ledge, stair or low ledge that must be stepped on
- Bridge - A structure that carries a path/trail/road across a waterfall, river, ravine or other obstacle
- A ford - Unbridged river/a stream, wetland or a swamp
Hazards
Slippery trail
Service on the trail
- Campsite
- Transport with travel equipment can be purchased
Við Systragil er tjaldsvæði með tilheyrandi þjónustu.
Lighting
Unilluminated
Period
Open all seasons
Þingmannaleið is an ancient hiking trail connecting Systragil in Fnjóskadalur with Eyrarland in Eyjafjörður. It is approximately 10 km long and typically takes about 4 hours to complete. The trail is relatively easy to follow and is marked with sticks until it reaches a boundary marked by a stone fence and distinctive cairns. Throughout most of its length, the route has been well-guarded with cairns spaced roughly 70-80 meters apart.
Along this path, you can see a remarkable stone wall built in 1871, carefully and neatly constructed, measuring about 20 meters in length and 3.25 meters wide. This bridge was a significant transportation upgrade; during that time, Þingmannaleið served as a main route for communication and postal services between regions.
The trail then continues westward along a marked and embanked path for about 500 meters before heading southwest toward Járnhryggur, a ridge standing at 680 meters. From here, hikers enjoy spectacular views. Shortly afterward, the route turns north, descending down the hillside on the Eyjafjörður side, reaching a fence that is crossed via steps. From there, it follows a trail downhill to the farm Eyrarland.