Why is Bæjarstaðaskógur historically significant?

Bæjarstaðaskógur is one of Iceland's largest remaining native birch forests and has been protected since 1905, one of the earliest conservation efforts in the country.

Where is Bæjarstaðaskógur?

The forest is located near Egilsstaðir in East Iceland, on the shores of Lagarfljót lake. It is easily accessible by car from Egilsstaðir.

What hiking trails are available?

Several marked trails wind through the old birch woodland, from short 30-minute loops to walks of 2–3 hours that cover the full extent of the forest.

When is the best time to visit?

Summer (June–August) has full green foliage and the longest daylight. In autumn (September–October) the birch leaves turn golden. The forest can be visited in winter but trails may be snowy.

What wildlife can I see?

The forest is home to various bird species including redwings, redpolls, and wrens. You may also spot ptarmigan and, near the lake, various waterfowl.

Bæjarstaðaskógur: Birch Forest Protected Since 1905

One of Iceland's largest native birch forests, protected since 1905 and located near Egilsstaðir in East Iceland.

Last reviewed March 3, 2026By the Iceland.org travel deskEditorial policy

Region

East Iceland

Protected since 1905. One of Iceland's oldest conservation sites.

Bæjarstaðaskógur is a remnant of Iceland's original woodland. This birch forest near Egilsstaðir has been under protection since 1905, one of the country's earliest conservation efforts. Gnarled birch trees, some centuries old, form a canopy that is dense by Icelandic standards. The forest sits near the shores of Lagarfljót, Iceland's third-largest lake.

Sources and last reviewed

Last reviewed: 2026-03-03

This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. Stay on marked trails to protect this historic forest's fragile ecosystem.

Pages are reviewed for practical usefulness, source quality, and volatile claims before publication.

Official sources to check

Best for

Ancient native woodland

One of Iceland's largest surviving birch forests.

Access

Easy

Short drive from Egilsstaðir on paved roads.

Pro tip

Go in autumn

The birch turns golden through September.

What to Expect

Dense canopy of ancient birch trees, some centuries old
Marked hiking trails from short loops to multi-hour walks
Rich birdlife including redwings and ptarmigan
One of Iceland's earliest conservation sites, protected since 1905
Waterside paths near Lagarfljót lake
Some of the oldest birch trees in Iceland, with individual specimens estimated at over 100 years old

Nearby Attractions

Egilsstaðir (East Iceland's main town)
Hengifoss and Litlanesfoss waterfalls
Lagarfljót lake and the Lagarfljót worm legend
Hallormsstaðaskógur national forest across the lake
Skriðuklaustur historical estate and cultural center

How to Get There

Located near Egilsstaðir in East Iceland, accessible via Route 931 along Lagarfljót lake
About 25 km south of Egilsstaðir on a paved road, well-signposted
Egilsstaðir Airport offers daily domestic flights from Reykjavik (45 minutes)
Combine with Hallormsstaðaskógur (Iceland's largest forest) and Hengifoss waterfall nearby
Free entry and parking at the forest access points

Best Time to Visit

June-August: Forest at its greenest, longest daylight, best hiking conditions
September: Autumn colors in the old birch woodland
Year-round: Forest accessible in all seasons, though winter may limit some trails
July: Peak summer with wildflowers on the forest floor
May: Birdsong returns to the woodland

Planning help

Bæjarstaðaskógur FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

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