The large flat-topped mountain looming large and proud across Faxaflói Bay is Mount Esja, rising some 914 metres (2,999 ft) above sea level. This prominent landmark overlooking the capital city of Reykjavík often seems so closeto the city that that it seems almost possible to reach out and touch Esja’s upper peaks.
Beautiful Mount Esja draws thousands of local citizens to climb its summit every year. It is a relatively easy hike with several well-marked routes up and around the mountain of varying skill levels. From its summit the mountain offers truly mind-blowing views of the entire city, the bay, and beyond.
Esja is not a single mountain, but instead a mountain range made from basalt and tuff. It formed at the end of the Pleistocene Era and the beginning of the Ice Age. Volcanic activity caused a buildup of lava and tuff, creating what seems like layers in the mountain, which are quite visible in the many cliffs. The western part of Esja is the oldest one, about 3.2 million years old. Tectonic movement is constantly pushing the strate to the west and away from the active volcano zone which Esja once belonged to.
The strange, yellow-coloured easternmost summits are called Móskarðshnjúkar. This strange colour is due to the rhyolite stone which dominates that part of the range. Rhyolite can be found in many places in Iceland and is often near older central volcanoes.
The mountain’s name probably comes from an ancient word that means “rock flake” or “carving stone.” The Icelandic Saga, Kjalnesinga Saga, mentions a rich widow named “Esja” who lived on a farm near the mountain. She was originally from Ireland and was believed to be a witch. The saga indicates the mountain was named after her, but it is very likely the woman took her name from the mountain itself.
How long does it take to hike the mountain?
Mount Esja is a popular hiking area in Reykjavík and offers many different routes. The most common routes taken at Mt. Esja leading to Þverfellshorn take about two to four hours up and down, depending on the paths you choose (and, of course, your fitness level).
Can you hike Esja in all weather?
Esja is open for hiking all year round. However, during stormy and extreme winter weather, it can be very dangerous to hike there. Trust your instincts and show caution.
How to get to Esja?
Esja is located 20 km north of Reykjavík, and getting there is very simple. Just follow the ring road northwards, and soon after you pass Mosfellsbær you will clearly see signs where to turn.
