Iceland is the perfect destination for those seeking adventure and excellent hiking opportunities. Almost all popular outdoor spaces have options for all levels of physical ability. The trails are long, but they also have quicker exits for those looking for a shorter excursion.
Choosing a hike in a country with thousands of trails, some marked and some not, can be overwhelming. These 10 hikes range from a few hours to a few days, and for some, you may even want to hire a guide to guide you. Read and grab your hiking boots.
Glymur
Direction
IcelandGet directions
If you only have an afternoon, head an hour north of Reykjavik towards Glymur, the second tallest waterfall in the country. The hike can take more than four hours round trip, but you will see an impressive variety of natural attractions along the way (caves, streams, mountain valleys). The beginning of this hike is relatively easy, and it is convenient to turn around whenever you want and only do part of it, making it a great option for beginners. There is a bit of steep climbing once you get close to the falls, but ropes are available for added support.
Landmannalaugar
Direction
Landmannalaugar, IcelandGet directions
If hot springs, colorful mountain valleys, lava fields, and sulfur deposits are your kind of thing, spend some time researching Landmannalaugar. Located in the southern highlands, this is a very technical area best suited for experienced hikers. You can also hire a guide to guide you through this region, as you are more experienced for several days (ideally four). There are shorter hikes in the area, but reaching Landmannalaugar can be a bit difficult, especially if the weather is bad. The trail system in this region will take you through lava rock fields, through rainbow-hued valleys, and to the iconic Thorsmark Canyon.
Viknaslodir
Direction
Seydisfjordur , IslandiaGet directions
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The best way to enjoy Iceland’s eastern fjords is by exploring the Viknaslodir trail system. This is the place for advanced hikers, as you can spend up to 10 days exploring the area. You can cut that time in half if you only take the northern or southern part of the region. Here, you will pass black sand beaches, breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the ruins of old houses. Getting here is a journey – it will take you eight hours from Reykjavik by car. If you’re short on time, take the three-day trek between Seyðisfjörður and Borgarfjörður.
Hornstrandir
Direction
Hornstrandir, IcelandGet directions
Hornstrandir covers the northernmost peninsula in the country and comes with spectacular cliffs, lush green fields, and misty mornings. You will also find a nature reserve here, which is a prime area for quick and easy hikes. This area is completely what you do, as you can also find six-day hikes. There are countless suggestions on how to tackle this region, so it’s best to figure out how many days you can spend exploring and researching an itinerary that best suits your schedule. The weather in this region is also incredibly unpredictable, like most places in Iceland, so be sure to prepare for last minute itinerary changes.
RÃo Reykjadalur Hot Spring
Direction
Reykjadalur, IcelandGet directions
For less serious hikers, head 40 minutes north of Reykjavik to Reykjadalur, where you will find a warm river stream running through the mountain valley. There is a parking lot that drops you off at the beginning of the trail, which is surrounded by a couple of small geysers. You’ll walk through the valley and into even more geysirs – you’ll see the steam (and smell the sulfur) before actually seeing the geysirs. Once you get to the hot springs, which is about a 40 minute walk from the parking lot, you will find a wooden boardwalk along the water. The further you walk along the boardwalk, the warmer the water will be.
Laugavegur
Direction
Laugavegur, ReykjavÃk, IcelandGet directions
Try this hike during the summer months as the Highland area can be quite treacherous during the winter. For a full experience, you can walk through the entirety of Laugavegur, which will drop you off at Þórsmörk (more on that below). Reserve four days if you are hiking. You can choose to do this hike from north to south or vice versa, the latter will give you more elevation to tackle, but you will get fewer hikers along the way. Keep in mind that the only safe hot spring for swimming is Landmannalaugar, so don’t miss a chance to rest your sore muscles. You will hit different elevations, and different amounts of snow, depending on the time of year, so plan ahead and reserve your accommodation (cabins are available to rent along the trail) in advance. They fill up fast.
Þórsmörk
Direction
Thórsmörk, IcelandGet directions
This is a great place to take a day hike. There are several trails to choose from and if you enjoy it so much that you want to add even more time to the area, you can walk to Skógar, a wonderful route full of waterfalls, volcanic craters and other geological wonders. Þórsmörk itself is impressive – named after the Norse god Thor, the area looks as though Thor himself took down his hammer to create the cannon so many people love to explore.
Box
Direction
Askja, IcelandGet directions
If you have two hours to spare and are at the northern end of Vatnajökull National Park, head to Askja, an area with a crystal blue lake nestled within a volcanic caldera. You can hike to the top of the crater and you won’t regret it once you see the views. It is best to visit this area in the summer as it is in the Highlands and it can be impossible to get there during the winter.
Snaefellsjokull
Direction
Snæfellsjökull, IcelandGet directions
If you’ve ever dreamed of hiking on a glacier, head to Snæfellsjökull. This moderate hike will take you to the top of one of Iceland’s most famous volcanoes. You can also join a tour group to do this hike as many operators offer such experiences and it is recommended if you are not an experienced hiker or are doing the hike during winter There are a ton of trails in West Iceland, so it’s worth considering spending a full weekend exploring the area. To hike to the top of Snæfellsjökull, plan a full afternoon.
Monte Esja
Direction
Mógilsá, IcelandGet directions
If you’re staying close to Reykjavik, but still want a bit of a hike, head across the harbor to Mount Esja. You can see the mountain from downtown Reykjavik and it offers the perfect afternoon getaway. The trailhead starts in Mógilsá, about a 20-minute drive from Reykjavik, and takes you straight up the mountain. This hike is not as technical as the others you will find on this list and it will only take you a few hours out of your day. There is even a guest book at the top that you are invited to sign.
