All About Hiking In Iceland

Calling all wanderers! If you’re looking to step into a new chapter of adventure, Iceland is just the place to do so. Picture rugged terrain, powerful waterfalls, and views that seem straight out of a movie. The sheer variety of landscapes that you’ll see on one hike draws hundreds of adventurers each year. Whether you’re looking for a week-long trek or some family-friendly wanders, Iceland truly has it all.

Among its many attractions, hiking in Iceland stands out as a must-do experience for those looking to explore the country’s natural beauty. So lace up your boots and join us as we share everything you need to know about hiking in Iceland, from the best hiking opportunities to highly recommended trails and even guided tour options. 

Hiking Season in Iceland

While shorter trails in the southwest of Iceland are accessible year-round, hiking in Iceland is more enjoyable with more consistently good weather. And for this, you’ll want to visit Iceland during the summer months. Though sunshine is never promised in Iceland, June to August provide far more stable weather conditions and longer daylight hours in which to explore Iceland’s hiking trails. 

If you’re hoping to explore Iceland’s Highlands, famous for providing unrivaled hiking and trekking opportunities, summer is also the best time to visit. Accessing the Highlands requires driving on F-Roads, which are only open from June to August due to the poor weather conditions in the shoulder seasons and in winter. 

Please note that you’ll also need a 4x4 rental car to venture on these roads even in summer, so bear this in mind! Browse our 4WD options today and let nothing stand in your way.

The Top 5 Hiking Trails In Iceland

Experience the best of Iceland with the most amazing hiking trails in the country, offering scenic routes and views of a breathtaking landscape.

To capture more daylight hours for hiking, consider planning your trip to Iceland during late June or early July to take advantage of the Midnight Sun!

1. Laugavegur Trail

Known as one of Iceland’s most popular hiking trails, the Laugavegur Trail spans approximately 55 km (34 mi). Leading adventurers through a diverse landscape of colorful mountains, bubbling hot springs, and shimmering glaciers, this route promises to deliver. The Laugavegur Trail starts in Landmannalaugar, passes through the Laugahraun Lava Field, and then up towards Brennisteinsalda Mountain.

The trail takes around four days to complete, and there are some steep climbs to contend with, so we’d only recommend this trail to those who are confident hikers.

2. Asknes Trail

The Asknes Trail invites hikers to explore the coastal landscapes of Iceland’s East, offering a nice blend of panoramic views, rich biodiversity, and historic charm. The trail stretches across the shoreline, offering views of towering cliffs, secluded coves, and the overall expanse of the North Atlantic Ocean. Along the way, you’ll experience the region’s cultural heritage, with the remains of an old whaling station built around 1900.

The length of the Asknes Hiking Trail can vary depending on the route you decide to take, but typically, the distance is suitable for a half-day or full-day hike. 

3. Fimmvörðuháls Trail

The Fimmvörðuháls Trail in Iceland is roughly 25 km (15 mi) in length, taking hikers from Þórsmörk Valley to the Skógafoss Waterfall. Along the way, you’ll be treated to views of glaciers, mountains, and volcanic landscapes. The terrain is diverse, with rocky slopes, craters, and snowfields, and offers a glimpse into Iceland’s geological history and the aftermath of the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull volcanic eruption. 

Despite the steep ascents and the rough terrain, the trail rewards hikers with the stunning sight of the Skógafoss Waterfall cascading over towering cliffs.

4. Fardagafoss Trail

The Fardagafoss Trail offers a scenic adventure through East Iceland’s landscapes, including the Fardagafoss Waterfall. The waterfall is a hidden gem, nestled between towering cliffs, where hikers can watch the water tumble to the rocks below. The hike winds its way through green valleys and meadows, with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and countryside. 

The trail spans a moderate distance suitable for a half-day excursion. While the exact length of the hike varies depending on the start point, you can expect a trip roughly between 4 and 6 km (2.5 and 3.7 mi).

5. Hornstrandir

If you’re an avid hiker and keen to get off the beaten track, the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve is another incredible place to hit the trails. It will require a little more preparation due to being more remote than other hiking locations in Iceland, but with many picturesque fjords and the opportunity to spot playful Arctic Foxes, it’s well worth it.

There are many trails to embark on in the area, spanning some 100 km (62 mi) from end to end, but one notable path is between Hornvík and Hlöðuvík. On this trail, you’ll enjoy stunning views over Skálarkambur Pass.

Guided Hiking Tours

For those seeking guidance in planning their hike in Iceland, there are a number of tour operators available to choose from. You can find guided hikes offered by many companies, with treks led by experienced professionals. Opting for a guided hiking tour is the ideal option for those not familiar with the country and those wanting to learn more about the local flora, fauna, and geology of Iceland. 

You can also find comprehensive trail maps on online platforms like AllTrails and Visit Iceland, including difficulty ratings and user reviews, allowing you to choose routes that align with your preferences and skill levels.

Hiking in Iceland FAQs

While there are incredible hikes in Iceland, starting off on your own without any guidance might seem a little daunting. Find some of the most asked questions about hiking trails and tips below.

Where do you get water when hiking in Iceland?

Depending on where you are, most natural springs in Iceland are a great source of drinking water. Filtered naturally by rock, the glacial streams in Iceland provide some of the most delicious water in the world. If you can ascertain that there is nothing upstream contaminating the water, feel free to fill up your bottles with spring water on your hikes.

Do I need hiking poles for Iceland?

Your need for hiking boots and poles will entirely depend on your fitness level and the hikes you wish to embark on. Sturdy hiking boots are recommended to provide more support for your ankles and knees, especially on steeper inclines and rough terrain. Poles are great for adding stability while hiking on more difficult terrain, so while not imperative, these can be good for multi-day hikes or steeper inclines.

Does hiking in Iceland cost money?

Generally, hiking by yourself in Iceland won't cost you anything, particularly if you are aiming to explore trails in national parks. However, you might find that some smaller waterfall hikes or attractions may charge a small fee for parking or for visiting any visitor centers nearby. 

What to wear when hiking in Iceland?

Personal preference plays a huge part in what to wear, but there are a few general tips to cope with hiking within Iceland’s changeable weather. 

• Wear layers: Wearing and bringing layers will allow you to adapt to the changing weather conditions while hiking.

• Don’t neglect waterproofing: As well as a good waterproof coat, for longer hikes, you should not neglect waterproof trousers and boots.

• Avoid cotton: Cotton typically becomes very heavy and cold when wet, so it’s best to avoid cotton clothing for your hiking expeditions.

Is there anything I should know before hiking in Iceland?

As well as the above, you should pay attention to your safety, particularly when hiking solo. If there is no one in Iceland whom you can inform about your travel plans, utilize SafeTravel. On the SafeTravel website, you can upload your hiking plans, letting the local authorities know where you should be at any given time. If you are to miss a checkpoint, this alerts emergency services if required. 

At Iceland Car Rental, we offer reliable car rental services, ensuring you have the freedom to explore Iceland's hiking destinations at your own pace. Book your rental car today and embark on the adventure of a lifetime!

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