4.4
(123)
2,660
hikers
81
hikes
Bus station hiking trails in Búrfell offer access to a unique volcanic landscape characterized by ancient craters and expansive lava fields. The region features diverse terrain, including the Búrfellshraun lava field and the Búrfellsgjá lava channel, which showcase colorful geological formations. Despite the volcanic nature, the area supports vegetation adapted to lava soil, providing a distinct environment for outdoor exploration. These trails are situated within the Heiðmörk recreational area, offering accessible routes near urban centers.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
14
hikers
14.0km
03:44
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
7.25km
01:57
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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6
hikers
17.8km
04:49
230m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
hikers
9.92km
02:42
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
6.03km
01:36
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Former site of a longhouse, with interesting information boards and a pair of binoculars that allow you to take a look into the past.
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A well-maintained, approx. 2.5 km long gravel path leads around the lake. There are three parking lots. From the parking lot at the southern end of the lake, a path leads up to the small hill Gunnhildur with a beautiful view.
3
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There are more trails to explore around and you can use this as a starting point. Beautiful.
3
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The ascent to Búrfell crater start here. Easy for hikers, but climbing with a bicycle without putting a foot down is a challenge!
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If a little off the trail is still good to see. The little detour is worth it.
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There are nearly 100 hiking trails in Búrfell that are conveniently accessible from bus stations. These routes cater to various preferences, with over 60 easy trails, 30 moderate options, and a few more challenging adventures.
The best time to visit Búrfell for hiking is generally from late spring to early autumn. During these months, roads are typically clear, and the weather is more stable, offering ideal conditions to explore the region's dramatic volcanic landscapes and natural beauty.
Yes, Búrfell offers a great selection of easy and beginner-friendly trails. For instance, the Hiking loop from Kaplakriki is an easy 7.2 km route that takes around 2 hours to complete, perfect for a relaxed outing. Many of the 61 easy trails are suitable for those new to hiking.
Absolutely. Many of the trails in Búrfell are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point, often near a bus stop. An example is the Búrfellsgjá Crater – Búrfellsgjá loop from Kaplakriki, a moderate 14.3 km loop that explores the unique volcanic crater and lava field.
Yes, the Búrfell Volcanic Crater near Reykjavik, nestled within the Heiðmörk recreational area, is particularly known for its family-friendly trails. The Búrfellsgjá trail, for example, is considered easy and popular among locals, with a gradual ascent suitable for a wide range of fitness levels, including children.
While specific regulations can vary, generally, dogs are welcome on many outdoor trails in Iceland, provided they are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them. It's always a good idea to check local signage or park rules for the specific area you plan to hike, especially within protected recreational areas like Heiðmörk.
Hikers can expect dramatic volcanic landscapes. Near Reykjavik, trails often lead through the Búrfellshraun lava field and along the Búrfellsgjá lava channel, known for its colorful formations and small caves. From the Búrfell crater rim, you can enjoy panoramic views of Mount Helgafell and Mount Esjan. In South Iceland, trails around Búrfell Mountain offer expansive views of the Þjórsárdalur valley, the Þjórsá River, and even distant ice caps on clear days.
Near Reykjavik, the main point of interest is the Búrfell Volcanic Crater itself, with its distinctive slag formation and the Búrfellsgjá lava channel. In South Iceland, while civilian vehicles are prohibited on the road to the top of Búrfell Mountain, the surrounding Þjórsárdalur valley offers attractions like the Háifoss and Hjálparfoss waterfalls, and the reconstructed medieval farm at Stöng, which can be visited as part of a broader trip to the area.
The hiking trails in Búrfell are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 120 ratings. Reviewers often praise the unique volcanic scenery, the accessibility of the trails, and the breathtaking panoramic views from various viewpoints.
Yes, for those seeking a longer adventure, the Búrfellsgjá Crater – Búrfellsgjá loop from Garðabær is a moderate 17.7 km route. While most trails are easy to moderate, the region does offer a few more challenging options for experienced hikers looking for a greater physical test.
Winter hiking in Búrfell is possible, but it requires careful preparation. While the region's dramatic landscapes can be stunning under snow, conditions can be challenging with shorter daylight hours, colder temperatures, and potentially icy or snowy paths. It's crucial to check weather forecasts, have appropriate gear, and be aware that some routes might be less accessible or require specialized equipment during winter months.
While the immediate vicinity of bus stops leading to trailheads might not always have direct cafes, the Búrfell Volcanic Crater is close to Reykjavik and Hafnarfjordur. These towns offer a variety of dining options where you can refuel before or after your hike. For the Búrfell Mountain in South Iceland, amenities are more spread out, so it's advisable to bring your own provisions.


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