Kjarnaskógur woods
Kjarnaskógur Woods
Just south of Akureyri, Kjarnaskógur is one of the town’s most popular outdoor recreation areas. The forest covers approximately 800 hectares and is home to more than 1.5 million trees of many different species, most of which have been planted over the past 50 years.
With walking and cycling trails, playgrounds, picnic areas and plenty of space to enjoy the outdoors, Kjarnaskógur is a favourite among locals throughout the year. Along the Brunná stream, visitors can follow a trail featuring a variety of tree species. The forest is also rich in birdlife, and a birdwatching shelter can be found beside Hundatjörn pond in the nearby Naustaborgir Nature Reserve.
Hamrar Campsite is located next to the forest, providing easy access to the area and its network of trails.
Facilities and activities
In Kjarnaskógur you will find:
- Four playgrounds
- Volleyball courts and an outdoor fitness area
- Barbecue shelters and picnic areas for individuals and groups
- Approximately 12 km of gravel trails for walking, running and cycling, including 6 km of illuminated trails
- A wider network of woodland paths and hiking trails
- Restrooms and drinking-water facilities
- Four parking areas
- Mountain biking trails connected to the trails on Mt. Hlíðarfjall, creating a combined route of 21.6 km
Kjarnaskógur in winter
During winter, Kjarnaskógur becomes one of Iceland’s largest organised cross-country skiing areas in a woodland setting. Around 20 km of trails are groomed when conditions allow, including 6 km of illuminated tracks.
Designated sledding areas are also prepared near the statue of Einar the forester and below the sundial. Current information on trail grooming is available on the Kjarnaskógur website.
How to get there
From Akureyri, follow road 823 south past the airport. Turn right at the sign marked “Kjarnaskógur” and follow the road uphill to the parking area. The forest is approximately a five-minute drive from the town centre.
It is also possible to take buses 1, 2 or 5 from Ráðhústorg square and get off at the Kjarnagata/Vallatún stop near the golf course. From there, it is approximately a 2 km walk to Kjarnaskógur.
Contact information
Skógræktarfélag Eyfirðinga
Phone: +354 462 4047
Email: ingi@kjarnaskogur.is
Website: www.kjarnaskogur.is
