Sulur Akureyri
Conquer Mount Sulur for breathtaking panoramic views of Akureyri and its stunning fjord landscape. A challenging hike rewarding perseverance.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, better views
Sulur Akureyri
Best Time
Clearer skies, better views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Conquer Mount Sulur for breathtaking panoramic views of Akureyri and its stunning fjord landscape. A challenging hike rewarding perseverance.
"The last 1,200 feet are rocky, steep grade and at times covered in snow and ice. Bring poles if you have them."
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Essential for the steep, rocky, and sometimes icy terrain. Trekking poles are highly recommended!
🧥 Dress in Layers
Temperatures near the summit can be surprisingly cold, even on a sunny day. Pack warm clothing.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Summit Views
Peak of Mount Sulur
Panoramic vistas of Akureyri, the surrounding fjords, and snow-capped mountains. Absolutely breathtaking!
Challenging Ascent
Upper slopes of Mount Sulur
A steep, rocky climb that tests your endurance but rewards you with a sense of accomplishment.
Wildflower Meadows
Lower to mid-slopes of Mount Sulur
Vibrant wildflowers bloom along the trail, adding color and charm to your hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Gear Up for the Summit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Essential for the steep, rocky, and sometimes icy terrain. Trekking poles are highly recommended!
🧥 Dress in Layers
Temperatures near the summit can be surprisingly cold, even on a sunny day. Pack warm clothing.
☀️ Check the Weather
Low clouds can obscure the amazing views. Aim for a clear day for the best experience.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Especially during summer hikes, as there are places to refill along the way.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Essential for the steep, rocky, and sometimes icy terrain. Trekking poles are highly recommended!
🧥 Dress in Layers
Temperatures near the summit can be surprisingly cold, even on a sunny day. Pack warm clothing.
☀️ Check the Weather
Low clouds can obscure the amazing views. Aim for a clear day for the best experience.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Especially during summer hikes, as there are places to refill along the way.
📸 Turn Around Often!
Don't forget to capture the incredible scenery unfolding behind you as you ascend.
⏰ Start Early
To avoid crowds and ensure you have ample time to complete the hike.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hikers praise Sulur Akureyri for its breathtaking panoramic views of Akureyri and the surrounding mountains, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience. The trail's varied terrain, from boggy paths to steep rocky ascents, keeps it engaging. However, the final section is notably steep and can be difficult, especially on the descent, and weather conditions can significantly impact the experience.
"Nice hike to a mountain. Has a nice view to the city and mountains. Took us roughly 4.5h to go to the top and back. Was quite challenging because it was steep at the end."
Kuilu Trolli
"Really nice hike on a sunny day, you'll have amazing views of the surrounding mountains, the city and the fjord! I would not recommend it on a day with low clouds. It took us a bit less than 2 hours uphill. At the summit we were completely alone! We met only 8 people during the whole hike. The first half is pretty easy, the second half will make you question your life choices! It's very steep and goes straight up a rocky slope. When we were there on June 22 and there was still some small patches of snow that you to walk on. There is a parking lot at the trailhead on the bottom of the mountain, just follow the road "Suluvegur". On Google Maps the road is only partially drawn."
Mattia V
"This was a long and difficult hike becasue it is very steep at times. Going down was even harder due to loose rocks. It has really great views and the terrain changes which keeps it from being dull. There were also a lot of wildflowers along the way.
Make sure you start early in the day and bring warm clothes! It gets very cold once you near the top. We did not start early enough in the day, and we only had time to hike to the first summit before we had to turn around in order to make it our campsite that night. It was disappointing to go all that way and not make it to the top. There were a good amount of other people hiking on the trail, which we did not expect. We hiked it in July and there were plenty of places available to get fresh water. We also hiked over several snowy patches.
Remember to turn around often for the view."
Laura Boggs
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is located at the bottom of the mountain. Follow the road "Suluvegur" from Akureyri. Note that on Google Maps, this road is only partially drawn. There is a parking lot available at the trailhead.
Public transport options directly to the trailhead are limited. It's generally recommended to have a car for easy access to Sulur Akureyri.
The drive is short, typically around 10-15 minutes from the city center, depending on traffic and your starting point in Akureyri.
Currently, there are no widely advertised shuttle services specifically for Sulur Akureyri. Renting a car or taking a taxi are the most common options.
Yes, cycling is possible to the trailhead, but be prepared for the road conditions and the steepness of the hike itself.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, hiking Sulur Akureyri is free of charge. It's a natural attraction accessible to everyone.
Sulur Akureyri is open 24/7, as it is a natural mountain trail. However, it's best to hike during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
No booking is required. You can visit Sulur Akureyri anytime.
No permits are required for general hiking on Sulur Akureyri.
A quick visit might only allow you to reach the lower parts. The full hike to the summit and back can take 4-6 hours, so plan accordingly.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The hike to the summit and back typically takes 4-6 hours, depending on your pace and fitness level. Some reviewers mention around 4.5 hours round trip.
The hike is considered challenging. The first half is relatively easy, but the second half becomes very steep and rocky, with some sections requiring scrambling.
There are no dedicated restrooms or facilities at the trailhead or along the trail. Be prepared to be self-sufficient.
Yes, the trail is generally well-marked with cairns and posts, making it easier to navigate.
Hiking in winter is possible but significantly more challenging due to snow and ice. Crampons and proper winter gear are essential.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic views. Don't forget to turn around frequently on your ascent and descent for stunning shots of the landscape and Akureyri.
Early morning or late afternoon light can be beautiful, especially during summer. However, clear weather is the most crucial factor for good photos.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations regarding drone usage in natural areas before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for details in the distance. Ensure your gear is protected from the elements.
Look out for wildflowers in bloom during summer and the dramatic interplay of light and shadow on the mountain slopes. The ridge spine walk near the finish is also very photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
If your children are experienced hikers and can manage intermediate hikes for about 2 hours, you might be able to reach a lower point on the trail. However, be prepared for the possibility of needing to turn back due to the difficulty. For families seeking shorter, more accessible hikes near Akureyri, exploring other options might be more suitable.
💰 Budget Travelers
The main costs would be transportation to the trailhead (if you don't have a car) and any personal gear you might need. Packing your own snacks and water is also a cost-effective strategy, as there are no facilities on the mountain.
🏃♀️ Trail Runners & Fitness Enthusiasts
Even outside of organized events, the trails offer a fantastic opportunity for a demanding run. Be prepared for steep ascents, rocky descents, and potentially muddy or snowy conditions depending on the season. Proper trail running shoes and fitness are essential.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sulur Vertical Challenge
Participants often describe the experience as grueling but incredibly rewarding. The course takes them through varied terrain, from boggy lower sections to steep, rocky ascents. The sense of accomplishment upon finishing is immense, fueled by the breathtaking views and the sheer willpower required to complete the race.
While the Sulur Vertical is a specific event, the trails used are accessible for hikers year-round. It highlights the mountain's potential for both recreational hiking and extreme athletic pursuits, making Sulur Akureyri a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Navigating the Terrain: From Boggy Paths to Rocky Climbs
As you ascend, the trail transitions to a steeper, rocky slope. This is where the hike becomes more challenging, requiring careful footing and good balance. Many hikers find this section to be the most demanding, with a significant elevation gain in a short distance. The terrain changes, keeping the hike from becoming monotonous.
Near the summit, you might encounter patches of snow and ice, even in the summer months. This adds another layer of challenge and requires caution. The final approach often involves walking along a ridge spine, offering spectacular, albeit exposed, views.
Seasonal Beauty: Summer Blooms and Winter Wonders
However, even in summer, you might encounter lingering snow patches, especially at higher elevations. This can make the hike more interesting and visually diverse. The views of Akureyri and the surrounding fjords are spectacular on clear summer days.
In winter, Sulur Akureyri presents a completely different, yet equally stunning, spectacle. The mountain is often covered in snow, offering a serene and challenging environment for experienced hikers equipped with winter gear. The stark beauty of the snow-covered landscape and the crisp air make for a unique adventure, though conditions can be treacherous.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit