Canonical URL: https://www.iceland.org/glaciers/hjaltadalsjokull

Content updated: 2026-09-10

This is the Markdown representation of the page. Interactive tools and forms are available on the [HTML page](<https://www.iceland.org/glaciers/hjaltadalsjokull>). Source-check and review dates retain the meanings stated in the article.

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# Hjaltadalsjökull: The Glacier at the Head of Hjaltadalur

Hjaltadalsjökull lies at the head of Hjaltadalur in Tröllaskagi, North Iceland. Use the valley name when checking a map or discussing an approach.

Updated September 10, 2026 · [Published by Iceland.org](<https://www.iceland.org/about-us>) · [Writing & review](<https://www.iceland.org/editorial-policy#credits>)

## A documented mountain glacier

The USGS reference identifies Hjaltadalsjökull as a mountain glacier named for Hjaltadalur. It traces published references back to Sveinn Pálsson’s 1795 account. That is documentation of the name, not a date when the glacier formed.

## Read the surrounding landscape

A September 2000 photograph in the same reference shows Hjaltadalsjökull adjoining Hörgárjökull at the watershed divide. These neighboring names help distinguish the location from the coastal towns and other small glaciers of Tröllaskagi.

## Plan an approach separately

The source is not a current hiking guide. It does not establish a marked route from Siglufjörður, a fixed driving time or summer snow-free access. Before attempting a mountain visit, confirm the valley approach, permissions and conditions with a qualified local guide. Choose a separate lowland activity if you need a predictable stop on a road itinerary.

## Sources and further planning

[USGS: Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern](<https://pubs.usgs.gov/pp/1746/pdf/p1746_low-rez.pdf#page=113>), Oddur Sigurðsson and Richard S. Williams Jr., 2008, printed page 101. Historical identification checked September 10, 2026.

Continue with [the wider region or glacier system](<https://www.iceland.org/north>), or [compare guided glacier activities](<https://www.iceland.org/tours/glacier>). For an actual departure, check [SafeTravel alerts](<https://safetravel.is/>), [weather warnings](<https://en.vedur.is/>) and [road conditions](<https://umferdin.is/en>).

Planning help

## Glacier questions

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

**What is Hjaltadalsjökull?**

Hjaltadalsjökull lies at the head of Hjaltadalur in Tröllaskagi, North Iceland.

**Does this page provide a current route onto the glacier?**

No. Glacier identification and historical photographs do not establish current access. Check official conditions and get advice for the exact route; use the operator’s confirmed meeting point for a guided activity.

Country reference: [Iceland statistics](<https://www.iceland.org/statistics>).