Vaglaskógur
Birch Forest
One of Iceland's largest natural birch forests, protected since 1970
Fnjoskadalur (Fnjóskadalur): Green Valley Near Akureyri
Fnjóskadalur
A green, fertile valley near Akureyri, home to Vaglaskógur, one of Iceland's largest birch forests. The Fnjóská river is a well-known fishing river, and the valley has Iceland's first stone arch bridge (1908) and a forest campsite.
Region
Northeast Iceland
Best time: May to September
Quick Answer
Fnjóskadalur near Akureyri holds Vaglaskógur, one of Iceland's largest birch forests, the Fnjóská fishing river, and Iceland's first stone arch bridge (1908).
Fnjóskadalur is green, fertile, and unusually forested by Icelandic standards. Vaglaskógur, one of the country's largest surviving natural birch forests, dominates the valley and allows rare woodland walking in a landscape more often defined by open tundra. The clear Fnjóská river draws anglers, and the valley's 1908 stone arch bridge was the first of its kind in Iceland.
Sources and page update
Updated: 2026-09-10
Fnjóskadalur is easily accessible from Akureyri via Route 833. The valley road is suitable for all vehicles in summer. Fishing permits are required for the Fnjóská river.
For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy.
Official sources to check
Fnjóská River
Fishing
One of Iceland's best-known salmon and trout rivers
Stone Bridge
Built 1908
Iceland's first stone arch bridge, now a heritage landmark
Best Season
May–Sep
Green valley with camping and forest walks
Church
Laufás Turf
Historic turf-roofed church and vicarage, a preserved heritage site
Farming
Horse Breeding
Rich farmland supports horse breeding and traditional agriculture in the valley
Key Highlights
Vaglaskógur Forest
Extensive birch woodland with walking trails and picnic areas
Fnjóská River Fishing
Salmon and trout fishing in clear water
Historic Stone Bridge
Iceland's first stone arch bridge (1908), a protected cultural monument
Forest Camping
A campsite set among birch trees, rare in Iceland
Near Akureyri
Just 20 km from Iceland's northern capital, easy day trip
Birdwatching
Rich birdlife in the forest and along the river valley
How to Get There
- Route 83 leads into the valley from Route 1, about 20 km east of Akureyri
- Vaglaskógur forest campsite is well-signposted along Route 83
- Only 30 minutes from Akureyri, so it works as a day trip or afternoon outing
- The road is paved for the first section, then good gravel further into the valley
- Akureyri Airport has daily flights from Reykjavik for quick access to the area
Best Time to Visit
- June-August: Vaglaskógur birch forest at its greenest, campsite open, hiking trails dry
- September: Autumn colors in one of Iceland's largest birch woodlands
- July: Longest days, wildflowers, good conditions for camping and forest walks
- Year-round: Lower valley accessible via Route 83, but forest trails can be snowy in winter
- May: Birdsong returns to the forest, spring flowers in the woodland clearings
A new place to stop in Vaglaskógur
Land and Forest Iceland reports that a new shelter opened on June 26, 2026. It is intended for forest visitors as well as campers, with an adjoining toilet building. That makes it a useful landmark to check when planning a woodland walk or picnic; it is not a promise of overnight accommodation.
The structure itself tells a forestry story. Sitka spruce from Haukadalur supplies most of its structural timber, Norway spruce from the same forest covers the roof, and larch from Fnjóskadalur is used for exterior cladding. The building offers a concrete example of Icelandic forests producing construction timber.
Planning help
Fnjoskadalur FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.
What is Vaglaskógur?
Vaglaskógur is one of Iceland's largest natural birch forests, located in Fnjóskadalur. It covers a significant area of the valley and is a popular spot for hiking and camping in rare Icelandic woodland. The forest is managed as a national forest; use the current forest information for trails and facilities.
Can I fish in the Fnjóská river?
Yes, the Fnjóská river is one of Iceland's best-known salmon and trout fishing rivers. Fishing permits are required and are managed by local fishing associations. The season typically runs from June to September, with peak salmon runs in July and August.
What is special about the stone bridge in Fnjóskadalur?
The stone arch bridge over the Fnjóská river, built in 1908, was Iceland's first stone arch bridge. Visit Mývatn identifies it at Vaglaskógur and describes its present use as a footbridge.
Is there camping in Fnjóskadalur?
Yes, Vaglaskógur has a good campsite surrounded by birch forest, unusual in a country with so little woodland. Facilities include toilets, water, and basic amenities. The campsite is open during summer months, typically June through August.
How do I get to Fnjóskadalur?
Fnjóskadalur is easily accessible from Akureyri, about 20 km east of the city. Turn south from Route 1 onto Route 833 (Fnjóskadalsvegur). The valley road is paved and suitable for all vehicles in summer. Winter conditions may vary.
Country reference: Iceland statistics.