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Mosfell

More information

Region
Höfuðborgarsvæðið, Mosfellsbær
Level of difficulty
Level 1 - Easy route
1 2 3 4
Markings
Marked trail, at regular intervals
Duration
1 - 2 hours
Surface
Mixed surface - e.g. soil, stones, grass
Hazards
No hazards on the way
Service on the trail
No service
Lighting
Unilluminated
Period
Open all seasons
Mosfell, a modest mountain at 280 meters above sea level, is nestled in the Mosfellsdalur. The circular trail, ideal for any season, begins and concludes at the Mosfell church parking lot. The ascent to Mosfell is straightforward, with well-marked paths. Initially, the trail leads up to a hill known as Diskur. Then, it ascends gently to the mountain's eastern extremity. Following this, the path runs almost flat across the western side of the mountain to its summit, offering a splendid view of Esjuna and Mosfellsdalur. The descent follows stiles southward down the mountain, returning to the trail's start. The landscape as we know it was shaped after the Stardalsmegi volcano became extinct around two million years ago, with erosional forces burying valleys. The predominant bedrock is lava from the warmer periods, visible in the falls as layers accumulated over time. Mosfellsheiði is known for its lava fields, which have spread down to the lowlands of Mosfellssveit. Geothermal activity is common near active fissures and faults emanating from the volcanic belt. In Mosfellsdalur, a substantial sediment layer suggests a prehistoric lake's presence. The saga of Egill Skallagrímsson recounts his time in Mosfell during his later years, accompanied by his niece Þórdís. Legend has it that he concealed his silver treasure in the vicinity.