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Hlaup.isEventsThe Pentecost Trail Run

The Pentecost Trail Run

Participation fee

  • 14 km6.500 kr
  • 17,5 km6.500 kr
  • 22 km6.500 kr

Information

  • Distances14 km, 17,5 km, 22 km
  • Date9. June 2025

The Pentecost Trail Run returns for its 13th year on Monday, June 9th, 2025, at 10:00 AM. This scenic off-road race takes runners through the stunning landscapes around Hafnarfjörður, starting and finishing at Ásvellir. Participants can choose from three distances: 14 km, 17.5 km, and 22 km.

This volunteer-driven event, organized by the Haukar running club, is recognized by the International Trail Running Association (ITRA). The 22 km route awards 1 ITRA point, and all distances earn points that count towards qualifying for the Laugavegur Ultra Marathon.

Safety and runners responsibility

The Pentecost Run is an off-road race and therefore it is important to be careful on uneven surfaces.  Runners participate in the Pentecost Run at their own risk.  The organizers can in no way be held responsible for any harm that competitors may suffer or cause to others during participation in the race.  By registering for the race and picking up the race number, the participant confirms his understanding of this and agrees to the terms of the race.

Runners are encouraged to look at photos and videos from the Pentecost Run which gives a clear picture of the mood in the race. Pictures from the Pentecost Trail 

Race Highlights

Routes: The trails include Ástjörn, Hvaleyrarvatn, Stórhöfði, and Höfðaskógur. While routes may vary slightly due to construction, they will be clearly marked.

Route Descriptions:

  • 22 km: A comprehensive loop around Ástjörn, Vatnshlíð, and Hvaleyrarvatn, including scenic paths through Stórhöfði and Höfðaskógur.
  • 17.5 km: Follows the 22 km route but skips the 5 km loop near the scout house.
  • 14 km: A shorter version of the 22 km route, omitting both the 5 km scout house loop and the climb to Stórhöfði.

GPS of the running route.

Route Descriptions

22 km
The race begins at Ásvellir and follows a scenic course through Hafnarfjörður’s natural gems. From the starting point, participants complete half a circle around Ástjörn before ascending Vatnshlíð. The route then descends to Hvaleyrarvatn, where runners proceed clockwise around the lake.

From there, the trail transitions onto a gravel road leading to Stórhöfðastígur, continuing along the path around Stórhöfði cape before ascending the cape. After reaching the top, runners descend the opposite side and enter Kjóadalur. A short distance along a gravel road leads to a left turn onto a path that almost reaches the scout home at Hvaleyrarvatn.

The course then veers onto a gravel road to the right, following a nearly 5 km loop into the forest. Within the forestry area, runners complete a smaller loop and emerge near the scout home before heading back toward Hvaleyrarvatn. The route continues along forest paths, climbing the hillside and returning to the lake.

At this point, participants proceed counterclockwise along the lake for approximately 600 meters before ascending Vatnshlíð again. Crossing Vatnshlíð, the trail returns to Ástjörn and follows a gravel path to the left toward Ásvellir. The final stretch includes crossing a small footbridge and running counterclockwise around the sports area, finishing at the same location where the race started.

The 17 km route
The same route as the 22 km, but 17 km runners skip the 5 km loop at the scout home.

The 14 km route
The same route as the 22 km route, but 14 km runners skip the 5 km loop at the scout home and do not go up to Stórhöfði cape.

Registration Details
  • Fee:
    • Early bird (until April 15): 6,500 ISK.  Anyone who registers before midnight on April 16 has a chance to win Brooks running shoes.
    • Regular (after April 15): 7,500 ISK
  • Registration closes on June 4th at 23:59 or when the 500-runner limit is reached.
  • Full refunds are available until May 9th. Afterward, no refunds will be issued. Name changes must be submitted by June 2nd via hlaup@hlaup.is.

BIB Collection
  • When & Where:
    • Thursday before the race: Fætur Toga Höfðabakki (specific times announced later). Promotions on-site and possibility to register (if not sold out).
    • Race day: Ásvellir, 8:15–9:00 AM (if not sold out).
  • Runners are encouraged to pick up their numbers before Pentecost weekend to avoid delays.

Race-Day Guidelines
  • Timing: Chip-based timing.
  • Refreshments:
    • Three aid stations will offer water and energy drinks. Runners in the 22 km race may ONLY use refreshment station number 2, and not other refreshment stations. This is done because of ITRA rules.
    • Important: Runners must bring reusable cups—no cups will be provided.
  • Safety: As this is an off-road race, participants are responsible for their own safety. Uneven surfaces may pose risks, and runners participate at their own risk.

Awards & Prizes
  • Prizes for the top three men and women in each distance.
  • Exciting raffle prizes.

Additional Perks
  • Post-race refreshments.
  • Free swimming for runners at Ásvallalaug.

Age Limit

Participants must be 16 years or older in 2025.

Stay Connected

Join us for a day of adventure, community, and trail running through Iceland's breathtaking landscapes!

Further information

PLEASE NOTE that information on the services provided is subject  to  change.