Helgafell Hafnarfirði Hiking trail

Helgafell, located at Kaldárbotnar in Hafnarfjörður and standing at 338 meters, is a favored hiking destination with multiple ascension routes. The most frequented path begins at a newly established, clearly marked parking area, leading directly to the mountain's base. The trail takes you by the Hafnarfjörður springs at Kaldárbotn, followed by a well-defined guardrail that guides you to the mountain's ascent. The climb is steep yet manageable, passing through a narrow chasm within the mountain's rocky facade. Helgafell, a tuff mountain, was created by a volcanic eruption beneath a glacier towards the end of the last ice age, resulting in a solid and comfortable walking surface. This terrain does not offer distinct paths upward, but the route remains evident, with several markers along the way. At the summit, a breathtaking panoramic view awaits, and since 2019, visitors can find a pillar featuring an informational disc which lists the names of nearby mountains. Also present is a verse from Tómas Guðmundsson's poem "Fjallganga" affixed to the pillar. It's customary to sign the guest book at the peak before descending. The return journey follows the same path, with careful navigation advised, particularly through the mountain's pass gorge.