On the southeastern edge of Reykjavík, Heiðmörk offers a living record of how perseverance and communal effort can reshape a landscape. Covering 3,200 hectares not far from the city centre, Heiðmörk bridges untamed nature and the capital’s daily life. Its name links it to Norway’s Hedmark, both names rooted in Old Norse, hinting at an ancient shared connection with forested lands.
When Heiðmörk was officially protected as a conservation area in 1950, it included windblown heath and rugged lava fields. The ground was largely open, save for the stunted growth that could survive exposure and shallow soil. Early efforts to revive the area began in 1949 with small groves of Scots pine, Sitka spruce and Norway spruce. Some of the oldest Scots pines planted near Undanfari may still be found today, recalling those ambitious first steps.
Since then, more than four million trees have been introduced, quickly altering the character of Heiðmörk. What was once sparse is now a rich mosaic of forests, groves, and wildflower meadows. Roughly one fifth of its land is now covered with cultivated woodland, while wild birch forests and shrubs fill in much of the rest.
Heiðmörk’s appeal stems not only from its trees: it is home to over 150 wild flower species and provides sanctuary for more than 60 species of wild birds. Around wetlands and lakes such as Elliðavatn and Myllulækjartjörn, birdlife flourishes. The region’s most numerous nesting bird is the Eurasian blackbird, and other common breeders include the meadow pipit, redwing and siskin.
Rauðhólar, meaning “red hills,” lies within Heiðmörk’s boundaries and stands out with its rusty-coloured pseudocraters formed by volcanic activity. These hills, together with forest trails, old farm sites, and underground water flows, give the area ecological variety.
Heiðmörk is vital for more than recreation. The area holds Reykjavík’s drinking water reserves, with major groundwater flows hidden beneath the surface. This importance as a resource means the land has been carefully managed. Steady oversight by the Reykjavík Forestry Association and other organisations has guided planting, trail building, and ecological restoration.
A community effort spanning generations
Heiðmörk’s story is closely tied to community involvement since its founding. Over time, pioneer groups and associations have been given patches to care for, roughly 140 such plots today, each marked by the effort of those tending them. Volunteers, including students from Reykjavík’s municipal work school, have planted, maintained, and thinned forests, built paths, and helped keep the area clean.
As the area has grown, so too has the infrastructure. Approximately 40 kilometres of trails now loop through Heiðmörk, including a notable 12.5-kilometre circuit that draws runners, cyclists and, in the right conditions, cross-country skiers. Nine dedicated rest areas provide space for gatherings, games, camping and grilling. Educational programs continue in the shelter of the woods, using an old stone house by Elliðavatn, home to the poet Einar Benediktsson, as a classroom.
The landscape’s transformation has not ended its challenges. Dry spring weather brings the risk of grass and forest fires, as seen in a 2021 blaze that affected over six percent of the area. Nevertheless, Heiðmörk remains the principal outdoor haven for Reykjavík residents, evolving with each generation’s contribution.
Sources
- Wikipedia
- Wikipedia (Icelandic) in Icelandic
