Reykjavik’s Top 10 Scenic Running Trails for Nature Lovers

Reykjavik’s Top 10 Scenic Running Trails for Nature Lovers

Begin on a journey through Reykjavik's breathtaking landscapes by exploring the city's top 10 scenic running trails for nature enthusiasts. From coastal vistas to volcanic terrain, each trail offers a unique experience that will leave you invigorated and in awe of Iceland's natural beauty. Whether you seek a coastal breeze or a mountain challenge, Reykjavik's trails await, promising a rejuvenating escape into the heart of nature.

Key Takeaways

• Coastal Trail: Reykjavik North Coast offers peaceful ambiance and views of Faxa Bay, perfect for nature enthusiasts and runners.
• Mountain Adventure: Úlfarsfell via Grafarholt provides stunning panoramic views of Reykjavik and immersive natural serenity.
• Waterfall Delight: Elliðárdalur – Ullarfoss – Sjávarfoss features enchanting cascading waterfalls and tranquil valleys, ideal for nature lovers.
• Volcanic Exploration: Öskjuhlíð offers breathtaking vistas and volcanic wonders, with steep climbs and untouched wilderness.
• Lake Views: Heiðmörk via Elliðavatn provides serene lake views, lush greenery, and a mix of flat and gentle slopes for all fitness levels.

Coastal Trail: Reykjavik North Coast Paved Trail

Nestled along Reykjavik's picturesque coastline, the Reykjavik North Coast Paved Trail beckons runners with its 3.3 km (2.1 miles) of stunning views and serene surroundings.

This coastal path starts at Grotta Lighthouse, weaving through the charming neighborhoods of Seltjarnarnes and Vesturbær. As you lace up your shoes and hit the pavement, you'll be treated to breathtaking sights of the Atlantic Ocean, Faxa Bay, and the majestic Mount Esja.

The allure of this trail lies in its accessibility, peaceful ambiance, and birdwatching opportunities, making it a favorite among nature enthusiasts and avid runners alike.

Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just starting out, the relatively flat terrain and well-maintained paths of the Reykjavik North Coast Paved Trail cater to all levels of fitness.

Mountain Adventure: Úlfarsfell via Grafarholt

Alongside the serene coastal path of Reykjavik North Coast Paved Trail lies a contrasting adventure awaiting you on the Úlfarsfell via Grafarholt trail. This trail offers a challenging mountain running experience with great views of Reykjavik and the surrounding landscape. Here's what you can expect:

• Challenging Terrain: Prepare for varied terrain and steep climbs that will put your running skills to the test.
• Breathtaking Views: Enjoy stunning panoramic views of Reykjavik and the beautiful natural surroundings as you ascend.
• Popular Among Runners: The challenging nature of this trail attracts many runners looking for a satisfying workout.
• Perfect Distance: Covering approximately 6.2 miles, this trail offers a great distance for a fulfilling run.
• Natural Serenity: Immerse yourself in the tranquil natural surroundings and breathe in the fresh mountain air as you conquer this adventurous trail.

If you're up for a mountain adventure that combines running with great views, Úlfarsfell via Grafarholt is the perfect choice for you.

Waterfall Delight: Elliðárdalur – Ullarfoss – Sjávarfoss

Discover a runner's paradise along the Elliðárdalur – Ullarfoss – Sjávarfoss trail, where the enchanting beauty of cascading waterfalls and lush valleys awaits. This scenic route offers a delightful running track, perfect for nature lovers seeking a tranquil path.

As you jog through Elliðárdalur – Ullarfoss – Sjávarfoss, immerse yourself in the soothing sound of water flowing alongside you, enhancing your running experience. The picturesque waterfalls and lush greenery showcase the true beauty of Iceland's natural landscapes, providing an invigorating escape from city life.

It's no wonder that this trail is a popular choice among runners looking to connect with nature and enjoy the serene environment. So lace up your shoes, hit the trail, and let the cascading waterfalls and stunning valleys guide you through a rejuvenating journey in the heart of Reykjavik's wilderness.

Volcanic Exploration: Öskjuhlíð

[Trek through the rugged volcanic landscape of Öskjuhlíð, a renowned running trail in Reykjavik that challenges and rewards nature enthusiasts. As you run through this unique terrain, you'll encounter:

• Breathtaking Views: Behold the majestic mountains, Reykjavik city, and the vast Atlantic Ocean from various vantage points along the trail.
• 10 km Adventure: Explore Iceland's volcanic features while covering a total path length of about 10 km, immersing yourself in the raw beauty of the land.
• Physical Challenge: Embrace the steep climbs and descents that characterize Öskjuhlíð, offering a rigorous workout for runners seeking a demanding trail.
• Volcanic Wonders: Delight in the opportunity to witness firsthand the remarkable volcanic formations that define Iceland's landscape.
• Nature's Beauty: Immerse yourself in the untouched wilderness, feeling the energy of the volcanic terrain beneath your feet as you traverse Öskjuhlíð. Get ready to run and experience the enchanting allure of this volcanic exploration.]

Lake Views: Heiðmörk via Elliðavatn

Nestled near Reykjavik, Heiðmörk via Elliðavatn beckons runners with its picturesque surroundings and serene lake views. This running trail offers a peaceful escape into nature, surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil waters. You'll appreciate the mix of flat terrain and gentle slopes, catering to various fitness levels.

As you run along the trail, Elliðavatn, a scenic lake, adds to the tranquil ambiance, providing a beautiful backdrop for your workout. It's no wonder that Heiðmörk via Elliðavatn is a popular choice for nature lovers seeking an invigorating outdoor experience in Reykjavik.

Whether you're looking for a leisurely jog or a more challenging run, this trail has something for everyone. Lace up your shoes, breathe in the fresh air, and immerse yourself in the beauty of this scenic lake route.

Northern Lights Route: Aurora Northern Light Center – Tjörnin – Hlemmur

Starting your adventure at the Aurora Northern Light Center, set off on the enchanting Northern Lights Route that meanders its way through Reykjavik. This scenic running trail offers a mix of urban and natural scenery, covering approximately 5 miles and showcasing the beauty and cultural attractions of Reykjavik.

Along this popular route, you'll enjoy stunning views of the city's landmarks like the Grandi area and Sun Voyager Statue. Join the locals and tourists who favor this path for its picturesque views and convenient access points.

As you run from the Aurora Northern Light Center to Hlemmur, you'll pass through Tjörnin Lake, immersing yourself in the charm of Reykjavik's landscapes.

• Views of Grandi area and Sun Voyager Statue
• Mix of urban and natural scenery
• Approximately 5-mile route
• Popular among locals and tourists
• Convenient access points along the way

Geothermal Trail: Reykjavík – Öskjuhlíð – Nauthólsvík – Seltjarnarnes

Start on a journey along Reykjavík's enchanting Geothermal Trail, stretching from the city to Öskjuhlíð, Nauthólsvík, and Seltjarnarnes Peninsula.

This trail offers a picturesque route through geothermal areas and coastal landscapes, showcasing stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, geothermal beach, and Öskjuhlíð hill as you run. Providing a perfect blend of urban surroundings and natural beauty, the Geothermal Trail caters to both city dwellers and nature enthusiasts seeking a diverse running experience.

Popular among locals and visitors alike, this trail covers various terrains and landmarks, making it a favorite for those looking to immerse themselves in Reykjavík's breathtaking scenery.

Whether you're into leisurely jogs or challenging runs, the Geothermal Trail has something for every runner, offering a unique mix of geothermal wonders and coastal charm along the way. Lace up your shoes and commence on this unforgettable journey through Reykjavík's geothermal trail to Seltjarnarnes Peninsula.

Ultra Challenge: Iceland Backyard Ultra

Get ready to challenge your limits with the thrilling Iceland Backyard Ultra. This ultra race in a scenic location near Reykjavik offers stunning views and a unique format where participants run a 6.7 km loop every hour until only one runner remains. Here's what you can expect from this intense ultra challenge:

• Run a 6.7 km loop every hour to test your endurance.
• Enjoy breathtaking views of the Icelandic landscape as you push yourself to the limit.
• Complete each loop within the hour to stay in the race.
• Outlast your competitors to be declared the ultimate winner.
• Experience a blend of mental toughness and physical stamina in this popular Reykjavik running event.

The Iceland Backyard Ultra isn't just a race; it's a test of perseverance and determination set against a backdrop of natural beauty. Are you ready to take on this ultimate ultra challenge?

Sunlit Path: Sólarleið

Meander along the sunlit path of Sólarleið, a beloved running route in Reykjavik renowned for its breathtaking vistas of the city and the ocean. This trail offers a serene and sunlit path perfect for nature lovers seeking a peaceful running experience. Covering approximately 5 km, Sólarleið is a great option for a quick and scenic workout in Reykjavik. The moderate difficulty level of this running route around Reykjavik allows runners to enjoy the beauty of the city's landscape while getting a good workout in. Starting near the Aurora Northern Light Center and ending at Hlemmur, a popular area in Reykjavik, Sólarleið is well-marked and easily accessible.

Scenic Summit: Esja – Gunnlaugsskarð – Hábunga

For a more challenging and rewarding trail running experience in Reykjavik, consider exploring the Scenic Summit of Esja – Gunnlaugsskarð – Hábunga. This trail is renowned for its difficulty and popularity among experienced runners in Reykjavik, boasting a 3.9-star rating from 16 reviews. Here are some reasons why you should lace up your running shoes and tackle this scenic summit:

• Elevation Gain: With a total elevation gain of 3,123 ft, this trail offers a rigorous workout for those seeking a challenge.
• Distance: Covering a considerable distance near Reykjavik, you can enjoy both a satisfying workout and breathtaking views.
• Panoramic Views: Revel in stunning panoramic views of Reykjavik and the Atlantic Ocean from various points along the trail.
• Terrain Variety: The trail's steep climbs and diverse terrain provide an engaging experience for trail runners.
• Popularity: Known for its difficulty, Esja – Gunnlaugsskarð – Hábunga is a favorite among those looking for a tough yet rewarding running trail in Reykjavik.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are These Running Trails Suitable for Beginners or Only Experienced Runners?

These trails cater to all levels. Beginners can enjoy gentler routes, while experienced runners find challenging terrains. Embrace nature's beauty regardless of expertise. Lace up, hit the trails, and soak in Reykjavik's scenic wonders while running.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along These Scenic Running Trails?

You'll find restroom facilities sprinkled along these stunning running trails, making pit stops a breeze. They're like oases in the wilderness, offering a welcome break amidst nature's beauty. So, no worries about getting caught short!

Can Runners Bring Their Pets on These Trails?

Yes, you can bring your pets on these trails. Make sure to keep them on a leash and clean up after them. Enjoy the scenic run with your furry companion by your side!

Is It Safe to Run on These Trails Alone, Especially During Early Mornings or Late Evenings?

Thinking of hitting the trails solo in Reykjavik during early mornings or late evenings? Stay vigilant, stick to well-lit paths, and inform someone of your route. Your safety is key when enjoying these scenic runs.

Are There Any Parking Options Available Near the Starting Points of These Trails?

Yes, there are parking options near the starting points of these trails. You'll find designated parking areas conveniently located for easy access. Feel free to park your vehicle and begin your scenic running adventure hassle-free.