Mosfell

Mosfell, a low mountain (280 m above sea level) in Mosfellsdalur, offers a scenic and family-friendly circular hiking route that starts and ends at the parking area by Mosfellskirkja. The trail to the summit is well-defined and clearly marked. The hike begins with an ascent towards the hilltop known as Diskur, followed by a gradual incline up the eastern side of the mountain. The route then continues across relatively flat terrain to the highest point of Mosfell, providing stunning views of Esja and Mosfellsdalur. The descent follows the marked path southward, leading back to the starting point. The surrounding landscape, shaped over millions of years by erosion forces, features lava formations from eruptions during interglacial periods. Mosfell itself consists of layered lava flows accumulated over time, while Mosfellsheiði, a shield volcano, contributed lava to the lowlands of Mosfellssveit. Geothermal activity is evident in the area, linked to faults extending from the volcanic zone. Thick sediment layers in Mosfellsdalur suggest that a lake once existed there. According to Egils Saga, the legendary Viking poet and warrior Egill Skallagrímsson spent his later years at Mosfell with his niece Þórdís, and legend has it that he buried his treasure somewhere in the vicinity.