If you have been reading my site for a while. Then you will know that I love finding some of the most physically demanding hiking and trail running challenges around the world. And sharing them with my readers. So when I first planned my trip to Iceland, of course I was on the lookout for something that would push me to my limits. Unfortunately the time of year didn’t work out for me to attempt this one. But I can promise that I will be back. And more so, I wanted to share it with you. Enter the Iceland 7 peaks challenge in Seyðisfjörður.
Below is everything you need to know. Or that I could find the challenge. To better help you earn the title of Seyðisfjörður Mountain Viking.
Iceland 7 Peaks Challenge – Become a Seyðisfjörður Mountain Viking
Quick Faqs
Location: Seyðisfjörður, Iceland
Challenge: Summit the 7 most prominent peaks around the city.
Official Link: https://visitseydisfjordur.com/activity/gonguleidir-tindarnir-sjo/
7 Peak Names: Sandhólatindur, Bjólfur, Nóntindur, Hádegistindur, Strandartindur, Snjófjallstindur & Bægsli
Estimated Distance: 36+ miles
Estimated Elevation Gain: 16,000+ feet
What is the Iceland 7 Peaks Challenge
Located in the eastern fjords of Iceland sits the town of Seyðisfjörður. A port city completely surrounded by 3,000 ft peaks towing over the small town. The city has created a challenge of climbing the 7 most notable peaks around the city. If you can do this (no time limit) you will earn the title of Seyðisfjörður Mountain Viking. And for those crazy like me, if you can complete the summit of the 7 peaks in less than 24 hours you will earn the titles of Seyðisfjörður Super Mountain Viking.
Now don’t think this is some sort of easy challenge designed for tourists. The challenge requires route finding, class 3 and 4 four climbing, and will take you on over 36 miles and 16,000 feet of elevation gain. Most of which is not based on any trail. Just GPS coordinates and recommendations on the best places to start. The rest is up to you.
It should also be noted that snow, avalanches, and weather will all play a big part in whether it is even safe to attempt one of the mountains. Let alone all 7. This challenge is not for the faint of heart. And previews mountain route finding and climbing is a must. This is not your typical US trail. These mountains are wild, wet, steep, jagged, and very dangerous.
Routes
There are multiple ways to climb each of these peaks. With the ability to connect some of the peaks once you make the ridge lines. And the below routes are based on someone that completed the challenge. Providing a good outline of what you will be getting yourself into if you choose to take on the Iceland 7 Peaks Challenge.
Peak 1 – Sandhólatindur
Distance: 5.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 3,500+ feet
https://www.wikiloc.com/hiking-trails/seydisfjordur-mountain-viking-part-1-1-sandholatindur-38315207
Peak 2 – Bjólfur
Distance: 7.25 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,200+ feet
https://www.wikiloc.com/hiking-trails/seydisfjordur-mountain-viking-part-3-2-bjolfur-38760484
Peak 3, 4, and 5 – Nóntindur, Hádegistindur, & Strandartindur
Distance: 14.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 5,800+ feet
Peak 6 and 7 – Snjófjallstindur & Bægsli
Distance: 8.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 4,600+ feet
Conclusion
This endurance challenge is one that is high in my list. But getting to the location and planning enough time to complete can be a challenge in itself. For that reason very few people have posted or shared their experience form the trail. So, if you’re fortunate enough to give this one a go. Please let us know abut your experince in the comments below!
