Winter Adventures, Skiing and Snowboarding in East Iceland
For adventurous skiers and snowboarders, there’s a certain bragging rights appeal to carving fresh tracks on the slopes of Austurland. East Iceland’s ski areas provide a mix of downhill and cross-country options, scenic backdrops, and a warm local welcome. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a beginner looking for a new kind of winter adventure in Iceland, East Iceland is full of surprises. Below, you'll find everything you need to know about the region’s main ski areas.
Skiing at Oddsskarð Skiing Area – The Alps of East Iceland
Located between Eskifjörður and Norðfjörður, the Oddsskarð Skiing Area is often called the Alps of the East Fjords, and for good reason. With stunning views and a wide range of slopes, this ski resort in East Iceland offers something for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. When snow conditions are just right, you can ski all the way to the water’s edge at Eskifjörður, a rare experience even among European ski resorts.
The resort features 9 km of ski runs, 4 km for advanced skiers, 2 km for intermediates and 3 km for beginners, known as the Sunshine Slopes because they’re the first to catch the morning sun. This variety makes Oddsskarð ideal for families and groups with mixed abilities. The resort is also equipped with floodlighting, making evening skiing possible, a major perk during Iceland’s dark winter months. Ski lifts take visitors from 513 meters to 840 meters above sea level, offering breathtaking views over Reyðarfjörður at the top. There’s also a 250-meter beginner lift, making it easy for newcomers to access gentler slopes.
A highlight of the season is Páskafjör, an annual Easter ski festival that brings added excitement to the slopes. Expect fun competitions, Easter egg hunts in the snow, live music, and even a fireworks display, perfect for families visiting during the holiday period. Whether you're looking for challenging descents, beginner-friendly slopes, or a festive winter atmosphere, Oddsskarð Skiing Area delivers a memorable skiing experience in the heart of East Iceland.
Oddskarð, Photographer: Gunnar Freyr Gunnarsson
Skiing at Stafdalur Skiing Area in East Iceland
Located along Route 93 between Egilsstaðir and Seyðisfjörður, the Stafdalur Skiing Area is just 8 km from Seyðisfjörður and offers a scenic and accessible spot for skiing in East Iceland. Stafdalur features around 5 km of ski runs, with a good mix of slopes that primarily cater to intermediate skiers, though beginners and advanced skiers will also find options.
The ski area is equipped with a lodge and facilities for gear rental, including skis, snowboards, boots, and poles. There are three ski lifts on site. Beginners should aim to visit on weekends and holidays, when the rope lift is operational. For more experienced skiers, two tow lifts are available: One covers a 900-meter run with a height gain of 190 meters. The other spans 700 meters with a gain of 160 meters. If you're a fan of cross-country skiing, you’ll enjoy a 5 km long cross-country trail that winds through the beautiful winter landscape of the Eastfjords.
Whether you're an alpine skier or prefer gliding through snowy trails, Stafdalur Skiing Area offers a memorable winter sports experience in a peaceful, uncrowded setting.
Snowshoeing in East Iceland
When conditions allow, you can also try snowshoeing with Eastfjords Adventures, a unique way to experience Iceland’s winter landscape. As long as there’s sufficient snow cover, this activity is available from November through May.
This kind of slow travel offers a rare opportunity to connect deeply with your surroundings. As you move quietly through snow-laden trees and past distant mountain views, you become more attuned to the stillness of nature. The crunch of snow beneath your boots, combined with the muffled hush that blankets the landscape, creates a calming, almost meditative atmosphere.
Snowshoeing gives you access to pristine, tranquil areas far from the crowds — you might reach a frozen waterfall or spot the delicate tracks of an Arctic fox. It’s a peaceful, unforgettable way to explore the Eastfjords.
Photographer: Ragnhildur Aðalsteinsdóttir