Dyrfjöll

Natural landmarks of Iceland

Height1136m

TypeMountain range

RegionEast Iceland

DifficultyHard

Dyrfjöll is in the northern part of Mýrlas, part of the mountain range between Fljótsdalshérað and Borgarfjörður eystri. The mountains bear the name of a rock climbing that is in the mountain range, called it Animals and is 856 meters high. Their highest peak is at 1136 meters above sea level, known as Innra-Dyrfjall. He is very turbulent and was first climbed in 1952 by Vilhjálmur Einarsson, Jóhanni Ólasyn and Steinþóri Eiríksson. Dyrfjöll is often referred to as "expatriates of the eastern part of the north".

Heimild: http://is.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dyrfj%C3%B6ll
Mynd: SFjalar(http://www.flickr.com/photos/sfjalar/)

More details

Rock typeBasalt and rhyolitic volcanic rocks

Formation typeEroded volcanic mountain range

Best seasonSummer

Hiking routeHikeable

Glacier coverNot glacier covered

VolcanismVolcano

Volcanic activityNot an active volcano

Overview

Dyrfjoll is a dramatic mountain range above Borgarfjordur eystri, named after the huge opening in its ridge.

History

The mountains have long defined the natural setting of Borgarfjordur eystri and are now central to the Viknaslodir hiking region. Cultural context: Dyrfjöll contributes to the visual and cultural identity of its region and is part of the long relationship between Icelandic communities and mountain landscapes. Name origin: The name means 'Door Mountains' and refers to the giant opening in the ridge.

Geology

The range forms part of the deeply eroded ancient volcanic landscapes of East Iceland. Glaciers carved cirques, valleys and the famous gap in the ridge.

Hiking

Hiking possibilities around Dyrfjöll vary by route, season and access point. Exact distance and duration should be taken from a dedicated route record where available.

Safety

Conditions on Dyrfjöll can change quickly. Wind, low cloud, rain, snow, ice and loose ground can all increase difficulty. Visitors should check current conditions and choose routes appropriate to their experience. Practical visitor information: Visitors should choose an experience that matches current conditions and their own experience

Views & surroundings

High points overlook Borgarfjordur eystri, Viknaslodir and the colourful mountain landscapes of the Eastfjords. Surroundings: Dyrfjöll should be understood as part of its wider Icelandic landscape, including neighbouring valleys, ridges, lowlands and volcanic or glacial features. Nearby highlights: Natural attractions and mountains near Dyrfjöll

Interesting facts

The name literally means 'Door Mountains', directly describing the defining gap in the range. Understand Dyrfjöll by noticing not just the summit, but also its rock, slopes, neighbouring landforms and position within the wider landscape. Notable features: The giant 'door' in the ridge is one of the most immediately recognizable mountain features in East Iceland. Summary: A dramatic Eastfjords mountain range named for the enormous opening or 'doors' in its ridge. Themes: Dyrfjöll; mountains; nature; hiking; geology

Frequently asked questions

What is special about Dyrfjöll?: Dyrfjöll is part of Iceland's mountain landscape, shaped by the combined effects of volcanism, glaciers, erosion and a harsh maritime climate.
How was Dyrfjöll formed?: The geology of Dyrfjöll is linked to Iceland's volcanic bedrock, while glaciers, frost, running water and weathering later reshaped the landform.
What should visitors know before visiting Dyrfjöll?: Conditions around Dyrfjöll can change quickly. Check access and weather before travelling, stay on established routes where possible and avoid damaging fragile natural surfaces.