Best for
Peaceful nature walks
A genuinely quiet spot with minimal visitor traffic.
Arnaldsstaðaskógur: Birch and Rowan Woodland in East Iceland
A peaceful birch and rowan forest in East Iceland, on a steep hillside in Suðurdalur, Fljótsdalur.
Region
East Iceland
A quiet, off-the-beaten-path nature spot.
Quick Answer
Arnaldsstaðaskógur is a quiet forest in East Iceland where native birch and rowan trees form a sheltered woodland. Reaching the woods involves a steep hillside walk.
Sources and page update
Updated: 2026-09-10
This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. East Iceland weather can change quickly, so bring layers and check forecasts.
For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy.
Official sources to check
Access
Moderate
The approach ends with a steep walk into the forest.
Pro tip
Bring supplies
No facilities on site, so pack water, snacks, and layers.
What to Expect
- Natural birch woodland mixed with rowan
- Steep terrain rather than a flat recreation trail
- No visitor facilities described in the forestry inventory
- Grassy and flowering ground vegetation
Nearby Attractions
- Egilsstaðir (largest town in East Iceland)
- Hengifoss waterfall (layered basalt cliffs)
- Lagarfljót lake
- Hallormsstaðaskógur national forest
- Seyðisfjörður art town and fjord scenery
How to Get There
- The forestry inventory places the woods in Suðurdalur, Fljótsdalur
- Its approach turns southwest from road 934 onto a track north of Kelduá
- A steep uphill walk leads into the forest
- Confirm local track conditions before using that approach; the inventory is not a live road report
Best Time to Visit
- Choose weather suitable for walking on steep ground
- Allow for a return descent, which can be harder on wet or loose surfaces
- Check local conditions rather than assuming year-round access
The forestry service’s archived national-forest inventory is the source for the terrain and approach. It describes slopes where landslides can occur; it does not provide current trail clearance.
Planning help
Arnaldsstaðaskógur FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.
Where is Arnaldsstaðaskógur?
Arnaldsstaðaskógur is in Suðurdalur in Fljótsdalur, East Iceland. The forestry service describes an approach from road 934 north of Kelduá, followed by a steep walk.
What trees grow in Arnaldsstaðaskógur?
Natural birch mixed with rowan grows here. The forestry service describes this as an unplanted forest.
Are the walking paths easy?
No. The forestry service describes a steep hillside approach and scree slopes. This should not be presented as a flat walk suitable for everyone.
When is the best time to visit?
Summer months (June–August) have the best conditions, with full foliage and pleasant temperatures. The trees turn color in September and October.
Are there any facilities at the forest?
Arnaldsstaðaskógur is a natural area with minimal facilities. Bring your own water and supplies, and practice leave-no-trace principles.
Country reference: Iceland statistics.