Móskarðshnjúkar Running trail
Móskarðshnjúkar are two striking peaks east of Mt. Esja. A demanding trail-running route on a well-marked path with steep sections and sweeping views over Mosfellsdalur and the greater Reykjavik area.
More information
Region
Höfuðborgarsvæðið, Reykjavík
Starting point
Parking lot by Skarðsá in Mosfellsdalur
Markings
Marked trail, at regular intervals
Duration
2 - 3 hours
Surface
- Gravel
- Wetlands
- 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
A bridge crosses Skarðsá at the start, and unbridged streams or wet ground may occur along the way. Loose rock and gravel on steep upper sections; care is needed on the descent.
Hazards
A ford - Unbridged river/a stream, wetland or a swamp
Service on the trail
No service
Lighting
Unilluminated
Period
Unpassable in winter due to snow and ice
A demanding trail-running route up Móskarðshnjúkar, two striking peaks east of Mt. Esja. The run starts at the parking area by Skarðsá in Mosfellsdalur, crosses a bridge over the river and then follows a well-marked path uphill. The lower section is runnable with a steady gradient, but higher up the trail becomes steeper and the surface looser, so the final metres to the peaks are often hiked. From the top there are sweeping views over Mosfellsdalur, Esja and the greater Reykjavík area, and in clear weather as far as Þingvellir and Reykjanes. The route is a loop of 8 km and suits experienced trail runners in good condition who are used to uneven terrain. In winter it can be impassable without crampons and an ice axe and then requires winter-travel experience. The return follows the same side down and care is needed on loose gravel in the slopes.