Best for
Mountain hiking enthusiasts
A rare northern glacier in alpine terrain.
Bægisárjökull: a Rare North Iceland Glacier
A small glacier in the Tröllaskagi mountains of North Iceland, one of the few surviving in the country's drier north.
Region
North Iceland
Tröllaskagi mountains, hiking access only.
Bægisárjökull is one of the few glaciers found in North Iceland, high in the peaks of the Tröllaskagi peninsula. Most of Iceland's glacial ice is concentrated in the south and east, but the Tröllaskagi mountains reach high enough, and are sheltered enough, to support several small glaciers. Bægisárjökull survives on local geography rather than regional climate.
Sources and last reviewed
Last reviewed: 2026-03-03
Mountain terrain with no marked trails to the glacier. Weather in Tröllaskagi can change rapidly. Only experienced hikers should attempt to reach this glacier; inform someone of your plans.
Pages are reviewed for practical usefulness, source quality, and volatile claims before publication.
Official sources to check
Access
Hiking only
No roads; mountain hiking required.
Pro tip
Base in Siglufjörður
A fishing town with good facilities.
What to Expect
- A small glacier set in high mountain terrain
- Steep, rugged hiking through Tröllaskagi peaks
- Alpine scenery unlike typical Icelandic lowlands
- Meltwater streams running through narrow mountain valleys
- Possible sightings of arctic fox in the surrounding highlands
- Snow patches lingering well into summer on surrounding ridges
Nearby Attractions
- Siglufjörður Herring Era Museum and colorful village
- Ólafsfjörður and panoramic Eyjafjörður views
- Tröllaskagi ski areas including Dalvík and Siglufjörður
- Héðinsfjörður abandoned fjord with steep mountain scenery
- Hofsós Infinity Pool overlooking Skagafjörður
- Akureyri , the capital of North Iceland (1.5 hours)
How to Get There
- Drive to Siglufjörður or Ólafsfjörður via Route 76
- Hike into the Tröllaskagi mountains from valley access points
- No marked trails; good navigation skills essential
- Inform someone of your hiking plans before departing
- Carry all supplies, food, and emergency gear
Best Time to Visit
- July–August for snow-free hiking access
- Long northern daylight aids mountain navigation
- Weather in Tröllaskagi can shift rapidly; check forecasts
- Avoid in winter unless experienced in alpine conditions
- Best combined with a North Iceland road trip
Planning help
Baegisarjokull (Bægisárjökull) Glacier FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.