Trail Run in Kjarnaskógur

Kjarnaskógur is the local forest and recreation area in Akureyri and is located just South of the Airport. Great for running, hiking, mountain biking and x-country skiing when there is snow. There is a main 10km loop trail which starts from the carpark and is also lit with lamps during the dark months. Many people x-country ski here after work in winter on groomed trails. From the main trail there are dozens of smaller trails to explore that will take you through larch, birch and fir forests. You can even climb up above the cliffs for great views and wonderful single track for runners and mountain bikers. 

This forest is fairly tame for Icelandic nature, but it provides a great option for those who want to get out for a satisfying trail run or other local recreation when the weather isn't great. The main benefit about this forest is that it is largely protected from the wind—which means you can run, ski and hike herewhen you get "weathered out" elsewhere. 

If you're looking for a long run, it totally possible and pleasant to run the bike path from town along the fjord and up into the forest.