capital-region · Iceland
Elliðaá — Reykjavík's Salmon River
About Elliðaá — Reykjavík's Salmon River
Elliðaá is a salmon river flowing 25 km from Lake Elliðavatn through Reykjavík to the sea. Despite running through Iceland's capital city, Elliðaá has an annual salmon run (June–September) and is one of the most productive urban salmon rivers in the world. The river valley features walking/cycling paths, waterfalls, fishing spots (permit required), and surprisingly wild nature considering it's surrounded by suburban Reykjavík. Popular with joggers, dog-walkers and salmon fishermen.
History & Background
Elliðaá has been a salmon river since settlement (874 AD). The river powered Reykjavík's first hydroelectric plant (1921). Despite urbanization, salmon run has been maintained through conservation efforts and fishing restrictions. The river valley remains protected green space.
Did You Know?
- ✔25 km salmon river through Reykjavík
- ✔Annual salmon run June–September (~1,500 fish/year)
- ✔One of world's most productive urban salmon rivers
- ✔10 km of walking/cycling paths
- ✔Waterfalls, birch woodland, surprising wildlife
Tours Near Elliðaá — Reykjavík's Salmon River
Best-rated Iceland experiences — book with free cancellation
Why Visit
Popular with joggers, dog-walkers and salmon fishermen.
Did You Know?
Elliðaá is the only river in the world where you can fish for Atlantic salmon within a capital city — and the fishing is genuinely world-class despite being surrounded by suburbs.
The River That Refused to Die
Reykjavík grew around Elliðaá — housing, industry, roads. But the salmon kept coming back, swimming upstream past the city every summer, refusing to give up.
Hidden Gems Nearby
Elliðaárfoss Salmon Jump
In July–August, stand at Elliðaárfoss waterfall at dawn and watch Atlantic salmon leap the falls — it's one of the great urban wildlife spectacles.
The Riverside Path from Laugardalur
The path following Elliðaá from Laugardalur to Breiðholt winds through birch woodland and wetlands — it's the most peaceful urban walk in Reykjavík.
Practical Information
Best Time
Summer for salmon run
Duration
1–3 hours
Access
Multiple access points: Laugardalur, Breiðholt, Árbær, Elliðaár
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I see salmon jumping?▾
Yes — June–September at Elliðaárfoss waterfall near Breiðholt. Early morning/evening best for observing salmon.
Can I fish without a permit?▾
No — salmon fishing requires expensive permits (4,000–8,000 ISK/day). Strictly enforced.
