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Úlfarsfell Hiking trail

Úlfarsfell is a popular and easily accessible hiking destination on the border of Reykjavík and Mosfellsbær, offering year-round trails with stunning views from Stórihnúkur.

More information

Region
Höfuðborgarsvæðið, Mosfellsbær, Reykjavík
Starting point
Parking lot at Úlfarsfellsvegur
Level of difficulty
Level 1 - Easy route
1 2 3 4
Markings
Marked trail with cairns
Duration
1 - 2 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
Úlfarsfell is an accessible and enjoyable hiking destination suitable for year-round visits and hikers of all fitness levels. It is easy to reach and offers a quick ascent and descent. This hike starts from the Leirtjörn parking area, located above Úlfarsárdalur in Reykjavík, on the southern side of Úlfarsfell. From there, a well-marked trail leads to the summit's highest point, known as Stórihnúkur, where a viewing platform provides a stunning panorama of the capital area. Several trails descend the fell, but this route follows an old vehicle track back to the parking area. Úlfarsfell, situated on the border between Mosfellsbær and Reykjavík, stands at 296 meters above sea level. Its geological foundation dates back to the mid-Ice Age, approximately two million years old, consisting of alternating lava flows from warm periods and layers of tuff and glacial deposits from colder phases. The vegetation along the trail is characterized by heathland, with extensive afforestation efforts in the slopes, along with a noticeable spread of lupine, which has established itself in the area.