Hiking the insanely steep Troll Seat in Ísafjörður.

This is a must-do hike that if you visit Ísafjörður, but you have to be careful during mud season. The walls above this hike have potential for a short ski-tour in the wintertime, but be careful as it can get sharky. I like to do it at sunset because you get a wonderful glow, but sometimes it can get wrapped with fog decimating the view. It's only half a kilometer, straight up, no switchbacks, but a trail crew is working on creating a new route as of Summer 2024. You get a fantastic view of the town, and it’s extra cool to see the plane land at the airport which can be found at the base of this hike. Check the timetables of flights if you want to see a tiny plane land at one of the most iconic airports of all time.

There is a gravel lot where you can park. Avoid going in the middle of the day if you visit in the summer to avoid cruise ship tourists. If you head left once reaching the top of the hike, there is a trail journal you can sign.

Parking lot coordinates: 66.05973, -23.12267

Location: Outside of Ísafjörður, by the airport

Difficulty Level: Difficult

Distance and Duration: 0.5 km / 0.3 mi

Accessibility: This hike is a narrow and steep footpath, it’s not accessible for everyone.

Elevation Gain: 200 m / 659 ft

Trail Type: Out-and-back

Gear and Equipment: A steep front-country hike, bring lots of water and be careful for your ankles.

Essentials: Always bring the 10 essentials!

Permits and Fees: No permits or entrance fees for hiking or parking.

Weather Check: It’s Iceland, always check weather but be ready for anything. Local emergency number is 112. There is no shelter in the area.

Trailhead Description: The parking lot is on the mountainside of route 61, near the airport.

Seasons: In the wintertime, it’s only accessible by ski-touring equipment. In the spring, it becomes very muddy and is only accessible when the snow melts. The best time to use this trail is in the summer.

Scenic Points: The top of the hike.

Challenges: It’s very steep and sketchy, especially when coming down. Watch your footing and wear shoes with good thread.

Wildlife Encounters: Be quiet and look for arctic foxes.