11 Best Hikes in Iceland: Your Epic Guide!

Well, where are my hiking buddies?! This is your ULTIMATE guide to the best hiking in Iceland, where we’ll go on a journey to discover the popular tracks as well as the secret, off-the-beaten-path trails that most people overlook.

Iceland’s landscape is so diverse that wherever you go, you’ll be confronted with a variety of awesome feats of nature, volcanic craters, icy glaciers, and gorgeous green valleys. I’ve done in-depth research and got the BEST local tips to gather all the info you need.

For each trail, I’ve also found some amazing tours for those hikers who either want to experience a private tour or meet other hikers on a group hike without worrying about transportation. Book in advance to save your spot!

If you are in a hurry

If you’re here for a grab n’ go adventure, I’ve got you covered! Check out this short list that will make your hiking experience in Iceland absolutely magical. Just don’t forget to book in advance!

Since Iceland is pretty big, here’s a map of all the epic hiking trails we’ll be talking about today so you can plan ahead:

Hiking in Iceland: things to know before you go

Hiking in Iceland isn’t just hiking – it’s an adventure. And what do you need for an adventure? Preparation and planning!

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to delve into Icelandic trailheads, I’ve got you covered. And trust me, you’ll absolutely need to be prepared for this, as many things about the ‘Land of Ice and Fire’ can be unpredictable!

Best time of year for hiking in Iceland

The summertime is always best, given that you’ve got the best chance of having decent weather that isn’t going to bog you down during your journey. Some trails are open year round, but some aren’t advisable to visit after early September.

However, bear in mind that the weather in Iceland is totally interchangeable, even in the summertime. Check the weather once or twice a day just to stay on top of things, as you may even experience more than one season’s worth of unpredictable weather in a day. You may be whistling your way up a trail in bright summer sunshine when, suddenly, the storm sets in. Don’t get caught out!

If you do decide to go hiking in winter (I see you, seasoned adventurers), just make sure you have all the gear you need. That means multi-season sleeping bags, waterproof clothing, batteries, warm layers, a decent backpack, and really good shoes. Don’t get caught stranded on a mountaintop with your old Nike trainers – go and invest in a really good pair of hiking boots!

Gear and supplies

While we’re on the subject of hiking boots, here’s a quick list of some of the things you’ll need for your trip. Whatever the weather, your gear has got to hold you up!

• Camera
• Battery pack
• Long sleeve shirt
• Hiking pants
• Sturdy hiking boots
• Gloves
• Water bottle (I personally love this one, it’s super lightweight and easily refillable from one of Iceland’s many glacier streams!)
• Snacks
• Backpack
• Sunglasses
• Warm socks
• Waterproof/windproof gear
• Sunscreen
• Hat
• Download the AllTrails navigation app  (Android I iOS) – this is essential! I would personally recommend getting the subscription so you always have up-to-date information on all your hikes, and it’s also a great way to find new hikes near you!

Get your AllTrails subscription

1. Glymur Waterfall – Iceland’s 2nd tallest waterfall

• Level: moderately challenging
• Distance from Reykjavik: 72 km (45 mi)

Located in the west of Iceland, you’ll find the most beautiful waterfall – but first, you must hike to it! Nothing like a hike to get your reward!

Glymur Waterfall (see trail map) has become a super popular spot in recent years, and it sits at just under 200 m (656 ft) above sea level. It’s one of the most iconic hikes in Iceland, with bush, bramble, streams, mountains, and rock formations for miles around.

There’s a large parking area at the trailhead, which is great for those who prefer the freedom of driving, and it’s a well-signed route, so you don’t have to worry about getting lost.

The great thing about this hike is that, along the way, you’ll encounter plenty of freshwater streams, perfect for refilling your water bottle! The water in Iceland is so refreshing and pure, and these streams run straight from glaciers!

At some point, you’ll have to cross a wide stream, so be super careful crossing – there’s a rope there for you to hold onto! The first stopping point on the trail is marker number 4. Many people stop here, but you can choose to continue if you wish.

NOTE 1: this trail has a few steep sections, making it very difficult to hike in the winter as it can get very icy. Go in the summer if you can, but if you’re going to attempt it in the wintertime, wear ice crampons for a really good grip!

NOTE 2: although this is a relatively popular hiking route, there are no restrooms around here!

Miss Tourist recommends: Glymur Private Waterfall Hike

If you and your group want a personalized adventure, I’d recommend this epic private tour that will do all the heavy lifting for you (except your legs, you’ll have to do that) so you don’t have to worry about a thing while you enjoy the views.

It’s about 6 hours and includes transportation to and from Reykjavik. Your guide knows everything there is to know about Glymur and the surrounding trails, so you’ll have a total blast knowing you’re in the hands of an expert!

TOUR PRICE: from US$670 per person

2. Mount Esja – popular hike with incredible views

• Level: easy and challenging options depending on the route
• Distance from Reykjavik: 23 km (14 mi)

Looking for a hike with incredible views? Well, all the hikes on this list have that, but Mount Esja (see trail map) has unbelievable views of Kollafjördur and Reykjavik, so it’s definitely worth the hike! It’s also a great option for those who don’t want to trek too far from the city, and it’s just 30 minutes away!

The whole hike to the top (about 915 meters or 3,000 feet) will take about 2 – 4 hours to complete, and the scenery is absolutely stunning. You’ll feel like you’re in the Lake District in England, but even more beautiful!

You can park at the Mt. Esja parking lot (map) next to the trailhead or take the bus from Reykjavik. Bus 15 from Hlemmur will get you to Háholt, where bus 29 will pick you up and drop you at Esjurætur. You can buy a day pass for around ISK 2,200 (US$17). Check the timetable here.

The trail is well-marked, and the first stopping point is Steinn, where the path splits into 2. If you’re up for a challenging hike, take the left-hand path, and if you want an easier stroll, take the flatter path on the right-hand side.

If you want to stop at Steinn and take in the views from there, that’s totally fine! Just don’t forget to sign the Steinn Guestbook so your name is forever etched in the hills of Iceland 🇮🇸

Miss Tourist recommends: Private Hike to Mount Esja

Further towards the top of the trail, the road becomes a bit rocky, and the pathway kind of fades out, so if you’re traveling alone, I recommend taking a private tour to really make the most out of your trip!

This is about 4 – 5 hours, and you’ll be picked up and dropped off from Reykjavik, making hiking a breeze. You’ll even be provided with snacks! Venture up the trail and listen to epic tales of the region in the peace and quiet 🙂

TOUR PRICE: from US$150 per person

Book your Esja hike

3. Laugavegur Trail to Landmannalaugar – home of Arctic foxes

• Level: challenging
• Distance from Reykjavik: 162 km (100 mi)

If you’re a hiking enthusiast in search of strenuous hikes, you’ve probably heard of the Laugavegur trails (see trail map). – These are some of the most famous hiking routes in Iceland, and there are so many options to choose from in the area! Landmannalaugar is a hiker’s paradise, you’ll love it, but you have to hike there from Laugavegur, so this is where the adventure begins!

This is great for those looking for multi-day treks and is probably one of the top trails for professionals all over the world! It’s one of the most diverse hikes you’ll ever come across, with wild landscapes filled with colorful rhyolite mountains, countless snowy peaks, desert trails, river crossings, and the valley of Thor (Thorsmork) with its rich, green scenery. It just doesn’t get better than this!

This is a pretty epic hike, but it’s really only meant for people who are in peak health – don’t attempt this (especially alone) if you’re not an avid hiker or you need easy access to medical services.

Since you’ll be hiking for a few days, you have the option to bring your own tent if you have one (preferably a 3 – 4 season tent), and you pay just ISK 2,000 (US$15) to set up. Alternatively, you can camp out in a mountain hut scattered in various locations across the routes! These huts cost around ISK 9,500 (US$72) per person. Whatever you do, book the mountain huts in advance!

You’ll need a 4X4 or offroader to get to the main trailhead! I’d recommend renting a car if you want the freedom! Want more tips and tricks on renting a car in Iceland? Check out our post for all the info!

Alternatively, you can take the bus that goes to and from Landmannalaugar, Skogar, and Thorsmork. You’ll have to pay for separate tickets each way.

PRO TIP: hiking poles will save your knees on this trek, trust me!

NOTE 1: Laugavegur is also the name of a street in Reykjavik, so don’t get this confused when you’re putting it in Google Maps!

NOTE 2: bear in mind that this hike is only available in the summer since the weather in the winter makes these routes almost impossible to pass through.

Miss Tourist recommends: 4-day Laugavegur Trek with Mountain Huts

A trail like this is really hard to prepare adequately for, which is why I suggest going with a tour group! This 4-day trek is so worth it, and the price includes everything, from accommodation, food, and transportation to luggage assistance and the guide themselves. You won’t have to worry about booking your huts, getting lost, or anything else! You’ll start in Reykjavik and go through Landmannalaugar, Alftavtn, Emstrur, and Thorsmork Valley. Talk about an easy breeze!

TOUR PRICE: from US$1,820 per person

4. Reykjadalur Valley hot springs – hike to a natural spa

• Level: moderate
• Distance from Reykjavik: 50 km (31 mi)

The hike to Reykjadalur hot springs (see trail map) in Reykjadalur Valley isn’t particularly difficult, but it’s not easy either. There are a few tricky moments along the way, but these are short, and the route will become flat pretty quickly. The hike itself is only about 45 minutes (3 km or 2 mi) each way, so even if you’re not a pro, you can totally manage this.

Hveragerdi, where the hot springs are located, is only about a 30-minute drive from Reykjavik, making it an easy-breezy day trip from the city. It’s the beginning of the Golden Circle route, so you can be sure it’s one of the most beautiful hiking trails around!

Although the hike is short, you can spend as long as you want at the hot springs, so bring your swimsuit and a few beers to relax in nature! Just make sure you take all your trash with you when you leave. That’s something to bear in mind for all the trails!

Unlike some of the other hikes on this list, you can do this hike at any time of the year! Definitely bring warm clothes if you’re going in the winter, but don’t let the cold weather deter you!

Once you’re done, head back down the trail and go to the Geothermal Park in Hveragerdi! You’ll get to eat eggs cooked in a geyser, which is such a cool thing to watch!

Miss Tourist recommends: Private Reykjadalur Hike & Hot River Geothermal Tour

If you’d prefer not to drive, I’ve got you! This private tour picks you up from your hotel and takes you up the hike to the geothermal hot springs, where you can chill out in style. If you’re planning to go in the winter, they’ll also provide you with crampons to make the trek as easy as possible!

TOUR PRICE: from US$260 per person

Get your Reykjadalur tickets

5. Geldingadalur Valley – hike an active volcano

• Level: moderate
• Distance from Reykjavik: 138 km (85 mi)

The Geldingadalur Valley is the product of volcanic activity, so the landscape around here is just incredible! If you’re looking for a relatively easy hike with a spectacular show of molten lava and volcanic rock at the end, this 10 km (6 mile) round trip trail is for you.

The last time an eruption happened here was in July 2023, when thousands of excited hikers trekked to see the volcano! The landscape has been shaped in such a way that you can practically see all the historical eruptions and small earthquakes that happened here – you’re walking on hardened magma and volcanic dust, so it’s an incredible experience!

For a hike like this, you’ll need to quickly get used to the smell of sulfur (that stinky, eggy smell), which becomes especially potent the closer you get to Geldingadalir volcano (map)!

For the hike itself, you can expect the first 1.4 km (0.9 mi) to be a pretty flat road, and then there’s an intimidating hill, but don’t be deterred! Just split the hill into 2 sections, and you’ll be fine. It’s actually much more difficult on the way down than the way up, as it’s easy to slip, so that’s where your hiking poles will come in handy – I think these are perfect!

It’s said that Geldingadalir volcano could be active for up to 200 years, so it’s a really spectacular sight to see in its early days! Whatever you do, don’t get too close. You’ll find helicopters flying around making sure people don’t cross that boundary – so stay at a safe distance and enjoy the show!

Once you’ve conquered the hill, it becomes pretty flat on a dirt road surrounded by lava fields. Although it looks easy, this part of the hike actually goes on for some time, so make sure you bring enough water and snacks!

At the final mountain, there are shortcuts to avoid going over it, but if it’s your first time, be sensible and follow the rest of the hikers! You’ll then see the volcano, so it’s a great time to get your drone out! You’ll probably see tons of other people with drones as well, just don’t let it get too close to the volcano!

Miss Tourist recommends: Guided Afternoon Hiking Tour to New Volcano Site

It can be a bit daunting to hike to a volcano on your own, especially if you’re not a pro hiker, so that’s where this awesome small group tour comes in handy! You’ll be guided all the way to Litli Hrutur so you won’t have to worry about anything. The hike takes about 9 hours there and back, and you’ll also learn all about the geological history of the area, which is a fab bonus!

TOUR PRICE: from US$97 per person

Book your volcano hike

6. Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike – for an icy adventure

• Level: easy to moderate
• Distance from Reykjavik: 165 km (102 mi)

Visiting Iceland is nothing without a trip to a glacier! Glacier hiking is so fun, and the Sólheimajökull glacier hike (see trail map) provides an incredible opportunity to go in the footsteps of nature, amidst an ever-changing landscape full of volcanic rock and ice. Glaciers are fast disappearing due to climate change, so this is your chance to see a glacier in its full glory!

If you’re experienced and looking for glacier hikes, you can explore this land without worrying. However, if you’re not experienced, a tour guide is recommended since it can be quite dangerous to hike a glacier if you’re not familiar with the landscape, especially if you plan to hike alone!

The scenery around Sólheimajökull is absolutely breathtaking, with dramatic snowy peaks and even a peaceful glacier lagoon reaching 60 m (197 ft) deep! You’ll likely find that the lagoon is frozen over, but don’t be tempted to walk on it as it’s not really considered safe!

One thing you’ll need for this hike is a really good pair of ice crampons and hiking poles, as the ground can be slippery and uneven at the best of times. In some places, the glacial ice can reach over 200 meters (656 feet) deep!

You’ll also find stunning, naturally-formed crevasses and caves that appear due to the movement of the glacier, and ice caves formed by water rushing through the glacier are so awesome to walk through! These landscapes don’t last very long, and if you return you’ll likely find a totally different scene.

Underneath the ice cap, there’s a volcano called Katla, which last erupted in 1918!

NOTE: try to avoid walking on snowy spots, as these parts of the glacier may have melted and aren’t necessarily stable, making it far too easy to slip and fall into an invisible crevasse!

Miss Tourist Recommends: 3-Hour Glacier Hike on Sólheimajökull

Don’t have any ice crampons? Not an experienced hiker? I’ve got you covered! This super convenient tour will provide you with ice crampons and glacier equipment, such as an ice ax, harness, and helmet, and they’ll take you all the way to and from the glacier with a small group. This is an excellent choice for solo hikers who want to meet like-minded individuals on their journey through the ‘Land of Ice and Fire’!

TOUR PRICE: from US$100 per person

Get your glacier pants on

7. Hike to Paradísarlaut – a fairytale hike

• Level: easy
• Distance from Reykjavik: 111 km (69 mi)

Just under a 2-hour drive from Reykjavik, you’ll find the most magical and beautiful hike. If you’re a fan of ancient legend and lore, this is the spot for you! It’s one of the best day hikes for beginners and also one of the more beautiful hiking trails!

Said to be the home of elves and dwarfs, the famous waterfall Glanni and the surrounding oasis Paradísarlaut (map) aren’t particularly well-known to tourists, making it the perfect secret between you and Icelandic locals! You won’t have to battle any crowds at Paradísarlaut, and the hike itself is lovely and easy, as well as being one of the shorter hikes on this list.

This area is also a great option for history buffs, as there is a history of Vikings and other civilizations traveling through Paradísarlaut, so these trails are hundreds of years old! You’re literally walking in the footsteps of ancient beings and magical creatures on this hike, so it’s definitely a trip to remember.

8. Skaftafell – Iceland’s hiking paradise

• Level: easy and difficult hikes
• Distance from Reykjavik: 327 km (203 mi)

When it comes to the best hikes in Iceland, the hiking opportunities around Skaftafell (see trail map) are perfect for both beginners and experienced hikers! Located in Vatnajökull National Park, about 4.5 hours from Reykjavik, it’s a perfect place for nature lovers. National Parks in Iceland are stunning, but this one takes the cake!

The park covers about 13% of all of Iceland! You’ll see all sorts of different landscapes around here, like a glacier, dense forests, the black waterfall, and even old ruins from old farming settlements. Even a church in Reykjavik was modeled after the beautiful landscape here!

If you choose to hike around here during winter, I’d recommend taking your ice crampons and poles for a really good grip.

On the first leg of the trip, head to Svartifoss from the trailhead, which takes about 30 minutes, and from there, just follow the signs for Sel, down into Lambhagi. You can also head over to Hvannadals, which is Iceland’s highest peak!

If you follow this trail, you’ll get to see all the varied landscapes I mentioned above, and the trail takes just under 2 hours.

NOTE: if you’re planning to drive up there, bear in mind that the day fee for parking is about ISK 750 (about US$6).

Miss Tourist recommends: Extra Small Group Glacier Hike From Skaftafell

Getting to the glacier from the parking lot will eat up a big chunk of your day, so why not get as close as possible in a 4X4!? This tour will allow you to explore the glacier in plenty of time. You’ve got the privilege of certified guides who know all about the area! Plus, you can watch the sunset on the glacier with an evening departure, available in the summertime!

TOUR PRICE: from US$125 per person

Take your small group hike

9. Hornstrandir Nature Reserve – for a remote hike

• Level: easy to challenging, depending on your route
• Distance from Reykjavik: 454 km (282 mi)

Hornstrandir Nature Reserve (see all trails) is a remote nature reserve with around 60 miles worth of hiking trails. With this one, you can just pick a pathway and run with it! You can be sure this is one of the best hikes in Iceland!

The area is only accessible by boat since it’s a protected area, so plan ahead to take the boat from Ísafjörður (see location on map). It’s the most remote part of Iceland along the coast of the Arctic Ocean, so if you love an Icelandic wilderness experience, this is the trek for you!

Around the reserve, you won’t find any supplies, stores, proper roads, or anything else – it’s pretty much just rugged nature! The weather is also known to be pretty extreme around here, so make sure you pack lots of light layers and come prepared for every type of weather!

There are easier parts of the trail and more tricky areas with steep inclines, so the best thing to do is chat with the park rangers before you go so they can tell you what’s easily accessible for your skill level and which areas aren’t impacted by severe weather. Contact is pretty difficult once you get there, so take their advice before you go and only hike the passes that are open!

This is probably one of the most fascinating and breathtaking areas to hike on this list. The great thing about it is that you can also camp in 13 spots scattered throughout the reserve, so bring your multi-season tent to really get your Bear Grylls on!

Something you’ll definitely find along these trails is Arctic foxes, which, I’ll admit, look super cute, but don’t go near them as rabies can make them aggressive. Just play it safe!

Miss Tourist recommends: 6-Day Backpacking Tour & Hornstrandir Trek

Having a multi-day tour is an epic opportunity to see the very best of Iceland’s trails, all with the comfort of a guide and a fun group to explore with you! You’ll get so many fun add-ons, like a boat ride, all your meals sorted for you, camping gear provided, and even airport transport, so it’s well worth the money! This tour is for those looking for a challenging adventure.

TOUR PRICE: from US$1,864 per person

Take a 6-day trek

10. Fimmvörðuháls Trail – from Skogar to Thorsmork

• Level: challenging
• Distance from Reykjavik: 156 km (97 mi)

For those up for a challenge, this EPIC 25 km (15 mi) trail is pretty strenuous! Although it’s not for the fainthearted, the waterfalls trail features around 26 waterfalls and some of the most stunning views south Iceland has to offer. The last waterfall was featured in Game of Thrones, so this is one of the best hikes in Iceland for those looking for beauty and fun!

You’ll pass between 2 mountains, Fimmvörðuháls and Eyjafjallajökull, and there’s a ton of gorgeous wildlife to see. If you’re afraid of heights, there’s a short section that might challenge that fear a bit, but just hold on to the rope, and you’ll be fine!

I recommend splitting the trail and doing it in 2 days. You’ll need to carry all the supplies you need with you as there isn’t really anywhere you can buy anything apart from snacks.

Miss Tourist recommends: Fimmvörðuháls Hike

Don’t want to experience this incredible hike alone? You’ll LOVE this day hike (around 9 – 12 hours), which will take you from the Skógafoss waterfall and over glaciers into Thorsmork. It’s a fantastic option if you’re a solo traveler looking to meet other fun hikers! You’ll also get to have a jeep ride from Thorsmork at the end of the trip!

TOUR PRICE: from US$370 per person

11. Route 435 – the secret local’s hike

• Level: easy to challenging, depending on the route
• Distance from Reykjavik: 46 km (29 miles)

Looking to explore the Icelandic highlands? Route 435 is a Golden Circle route off the main highway (Route 1) to the towns of Hveragerði and Selfoss, a shortcut to the historical home of Iceland’s Parliament, Þingvellir. When it comes to Iceland’s hiking trails, this is a real hidden gem!

I recommend going to the ION Hotel for information on suitable routes. This funky boutique hotel is a great place to start your hike, and they have a lovely little cocktail bar overlooking the geothermal plant for when you come back!

For this hike, you want to keep in mind that Route 435 is closed for service during winter, so if you’re looking for a winter hike, this isn’t really the one for you. It’s also pretty remote, so bring all your supplies with you!

In terms of parking, you can park in the Nesjalauagar car park and go up to the hot springs, where you’ll find a ton of really awesome hiking trails for all levels. This is a super cool geothermal area, and there are some stunning, colorful mountains, so it’s a nice treat for the eyes after a long hike!

Safety and rules for hiking in Iceland

Hiking pretty much anywhere comes with safety precautions, and Iceland is no exception. Here’s a list of the things you’ll need to bear in mind so you’re fully prepared for anything!

• If you’re hiking alone, either join a tour or make sure you are FULLY prepared for any and all scenarios by planning in advance.
• While you can hike in Iceland year-round, it’s always best to hike during the summer months.
• Make sure you pack enough equipment snacks, water, thermal clothing (get those thermal knickers out), and a compass before you go.
• Don’t pack too much! If you’re going on a multi-day hike, you won’t want to be bogged down with heavy bags, so pack light but efficiently!
• If you’re a newbie to the world of hiking, don’t try one of the challenging hikes, especially on your own.
• The coastline in Iceland is pretty unforgiving, and it’s advised to stay at a safe distance from the ocean if you’re hiking around a beach.
• If you want to visit a geothermal area, make sure it’s safe to swim there! There will be signs saying it’s safe, so if you don’t see those signs, don’t risk getting burnt by super hot springs!
• Even if you’re an experienced hiker, try to hike on the marked trails. Veer off the trails if you wish but at your own risk!
• Access to medical services around some of the hiking trails is limited , so don’t push yourself if you’re not feeling well. If you’re hiking a remote trail and start to feel ill, pitch up a tent and make a brief stop before continuing.

FAQs about the best hiking in Iceland

Conclusion

Well, there you have it, the best hiking in Iceland for all levels of experience! Some of these were epic and challenging, and some are full of local folklore, hot springs, and stories of gnomes and elves, so hopefully you found your hiking jam in this post!

Don’t forget to book your tours in advance for the best hikes in Iceland, you wouldn’t want to miss the chance to see these trails with the help of a trusty guide! As always, if you have any questions, just drop me a comment, and I’ll come to your rescue 🦾

Happy hiking amigos!

Lizzie

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