Hjallanes is a marked hiking trail and is around 8km long/ 140m elevation, taking on average 3-4 hours to complete. If you’re looking for a shorter hike, you can also walk just to Skálafellsjökull and back the same way, which takes around 2 hours.
About the area
The river Kolgríma flows from the glacial lagoon Heinabergslón. The lowlands of Skálafell, which are not affected by the river, is a marshland shaped by ancient lava flows.You will see the effects of the old lava in arc-shaped lines tracing from east to west. Some have compared the lava flows to oceanic tidal waves, layering up after each surge.
The glacier, Skálafellsjökull, used to cover much of the land that you will hike over. At one outlook, you will see a plaque that marks the point where the glacier used to reach.
As for wildlife, this is a great place to see reindeer, and chances are high to see them in late fall and throughout the winter.
Good to know trail etiquette: Hikers must remember to close all gates after they pass through them. The farm nearby may have sheep they would like to keep within the fences.
