The King Of The Hikes: The Laugavegur Trail

Whether you're an experienced hiker looking for your next challenge or someone who just enjoys walking in nature, this multi-day trek will offer you some of the best views in the whole country. In this guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about the Laugavegur Trail, from how to get there to what to pack, and everything in between.

General Information About the Laugavegur Trail

The Laugavegur Trail is located in the southern highlands of Iceland. It connects two of the most iconic areas in this region: Landmannalaugar and Þórsmörk. Along the way, you'll pass through some of the most stunning and diverse landscapes that Iceland has to offer.

Although the Highlands is a remote region, the trail is not far from other major places, such as Reykjavik or the Golden Circle. The highlands are a vast, uninhabited area full of glaciers, volcanic craters, and dramatic mountains.

The Laugavegur Trail is a well-marked, multi-day hiking route that usually takes between 3 to 4 days to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy your surroundings. The trail spans roughly 55 kilometers (34 miles), starting in the geothermal area of Landmannalaugar and ending in Þórsmörk, a beautiful valley. While the distance might not seem overwhelming, the terrain can be challenging, with different geographical and geological features.

There are huts and campsites along the route where you can spend the night. The trail is usually open from late June to early September when the weather is milder and the highlands are accessible.

How to Get to the Laugavegur Trail

The best way to move around Iceland and reach the Laugavegur Trail is by car. Renting your own vehicle will give you freedom not only to reach this amazing area but also to discover Iceland in general. It’s important to remember that a 4x4 car is necessary to travel the Highlands. The roads leading into the highlands are rugged, and many of them involve crossing rivers. We have selected Reykjavik as the starting point to explain how to get to the Laugavegur Trail.

Driving from Reykjavik

Starting from Reykjavik, the capital and largest city in Iceland, Landmannalaugar is approximately 180 kilometers (112 miles) away. The drive will take about 3 to 4 hours, depending on road conditions and stops along the way.

To get to Landmannalaugar from Reykjavik, follow these steps:

1. Route 1 (Ring Road): Begin by driving east on Route 1, the Ring Road, which circles the whole country. After about 1.5 hours, you’ll reach the exit for Route 26, just before getting to the town of Hella.
2. Route 26: Drive on Route 26 northeast bound.
3. F208 (Highland Road): After driving on Route 26 for some time, you’ll come to the junction with F208. The “F” designation means this is a mountain road, which requires a 4x4 vehicle. Be cautious, as the road is rough, and there are a few river crossings you’ll need to navigate. These can be tricky, so always check the depth before crossing and follow local advice on whether they’re safe.

Once you arrive at Landmannalaugar, you can park your car there and begin the trek.

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River Crossings and Safety Tips

If you’re unfamiliar with driving on Icelandic roads, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, always drive a 4x4 vehicle. The roads, especially F-roads, are rough and difficult, and a tall and powerful car will help you handle these roads better.

Second, pay special attention to river crossings. The highland rivers can vary in depth depending on recent rainfall or snowmelt, and crossing them can be dangerous. Before crossing, stop and check the river, and never attempt to cross if you’re not sure about the depth or conditions. In some cases, it’s better to wait or even turn back rather than getting stuck.

Finally, always check road conditions before setting out. The Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration regularly updates road closures and conditions on their website, so it’s essential to know how the roads leading to the Laugavegur Trail are before departing.

Hiking and Trail Running in Laugavegur

The Laugavegur Trail has traditionally been (and still is) a hiking trail. However, in recent years, it has also gained popularity among trail runners. The route’s terrain is varied and quite challenging at certain points, making it very exciting for both hikers and runners.

Hiking

Hiking the Laugavegur Trail is an experience that will stay in your memory forever. The hike is divided into four different stages, each offering unique and dramatic landscapes. From the colorful rhyolite mountains in Landmannalaugar to the black volcanic deserts of Mælifellssandur and the lush forests of Þórsmörk, the diversity is astounding.

Most people take 3 to 4 days to complete the hike, though some might opt for a more relaxed pace or even a few extra days to explore the surrounding areas. You don’t need to carry a heavy backpack, just the basics for a regular adventure.

Trail Running

For experienced trail runners, the Laugavegur Trail presents an incredible opportunity to push yourself while being rewarded with stunning views. The route can be completed in one or two days of running, depending on your pace and fitness level. Because the trail is well-marked and has huts spaced along the way, it’s possible to run with minimal gear, but it’s essential to always be prepared for sudden weather changes.

Sleeping in the Area

As mentioned, the Laugavegur Trail usually takes 3 to 4 days to complete, so you’ll need to spend the night along the way. When it comes to sleeping on the Laugavegur Trail, you have two main options: staying in huts or camping. Both options offer incredible opportunities to connect with the surrounding nature, but each comes with its own pros and cons.

Huts

There are six mountain huts along the Laugavegur Trail, which are managed by the Icelandic Touring Association (Ferðafélag Íslands or FI). These huts provide a warm, dry place to sleep, and most come equipped with facilities like bunk beds, kitchens, and bathrooms. It’s comfortable but basic, so don’t expect any luxuries. Some huts even have geothermal hot springs nearby, perfect for relaxing your tired body after a long day of hiking.

Huts need to be booked well in advance, as they fill up quickly. Remember that sleeping in the huts can be more comfortable than camping, but it’s also more expensive and less flexible since you’ll need to stick to a schedule.

Camping

If you prefer more freedom and are looking to save some money, camping is a fantastic option. You can set up your tent at designated areas, normally beside the huts. You will have access to basic facilities like restrooms and water.

On the other hand, you must be prepared for all kinds of weather, as Icelandic nights can get cold even in summer. Bringing a good tent and a high-quality sleeping bag is essential if you're planning to camp.

What to See and Do Near the Laugavegur Trail

The Laugavegur Trail is a destination itself. It’s one of the experiences in Iceland that will connect you the most to nature and witness some of the geological diversity the country has. If you like hiking, this is a compulsory route you should complete. But if that’s not enough for you, this iconic route is in an area full of wonders that are waiting for you to explore. Let’s take a look at some of the best things to see and do nearby.

Landmannalaugar Geothermal Area

Landmannalaugar, the starting point of the Laugavegur Trail, is famous for its geothermal hot springs and colorful rhyolite mountains. Before or after your hike, take some time to wind down in the naturally heated pools. The waters are rich in minerals, so it’s not only a relaxing activity but also beneficial to your body, perfect for getting rid of fatigue after a long day of trekking. The area has volcanic activity, so it’s normal to see steam rising from the ground, adding a beautiful visual touch to the bath.

Apart from the hot springs, Landmannalaugar has several shorter hikes that can be done in a day. The Bláhnjúkur hike is a popular option, with panoramic views of the rainbow-colored mountains, glaciers, and lava fields. For those looking to go the extra mile, the Laugahraun Lava Field and Mount Brennisteinsalda are also nearby, providing excellent opportunities for photography and exploration.

Þórsmörk (Thorsmork) Nature Reserve

The Laugavegur Trail ends at Þórsmörk, one of Iceland’s best hiking destinations. This green valley is surrounded by glaciers and mountains, contrasting the barren, stark volcanic landscape at the start of the trail. This nature reserve is a paradise with dense forest, dramatic cliffs, and gorgeous rivers.

There are several day hikes in Þórsmörk, and you can connect them to Laugavegur to create a larger route. The Valahnúkur Mountain Hike is a short but steep trail that rewards you with fantastic views over the entire valley and beyond. The Fimmvörðuháls Trail takes you from Þórsmörk to Skógafoss, one of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland. It passes by the famous Eyjafjallajökull volcano.

Skógafoss Waterfall

Just a short drive from Þórsmörk is the spectacular Skógafoss, one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. Dropping 60 meters (197 feet), this powerful cascade is a popular stop for travelers exploring the south coast. The waterfall is surrounded by hiking trails, so you can explore the area further.

For a different perspective, climb the stairs next to Skógafoss to get a panoramic view of the waterfall and the surrounding landscape.

Hekla Volcano

Iceland is full of volcanoes, some of them active, some dormant. They are fascinating places, and many of them are worth visiting. Hekla is one of the most active in the country. It’s located east of the Laugavegur Trail, and its massive shape dominates the horizon.

Hiking to the summit of Hekla (1,491 meters or 4,892 feet) is possible, and on a clear day, you’ll be rewarded with incredible views over the highlands and the southern coast. Be aware that Hekla is still active, and eruptions can occur with little warning, so it’s essential to check with local authorities before planning your hike.

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Another stunning waterfall near the Laugavegur Trail is Seljalandsfoss, located along the south coast on Route 1. What makes Seljalandsfoss unique is that there’s a path that goes behind the curtain of water, allowing you to get behind the cascade. This 65-meter (213-foot) cascade offers a one-of-a-kind experience where you can feel the mist and see the waterfall from behind, giving it a magical, almost mystical atmosphere.

If you're exploring the area before or after your trek, Seljalandsfoss is a perfect quick stop for a picnic or photo opportunity. Just a short walk away is the less-visited but equally stunning Gljúfrabúi waterfall, hidden behind a narrow canyon.

Eyjafjallajökull Glacier and Volcano

The famous Eyjafjallajökull volcano, which erupted in 2010 and grounded air travel across Europe for a few days, is located just west of the Laugavegur Trail. Eyjafjallajökull is also a beautiful destination for those interested in glaciers and volcanoes.

There are guided tours available that allow you to visit the glacier and get closer to the volcano. If you're interested in Iceland's volcanic history, go to the Eyjafjallajökull Visitor Centre, which provides a great overview of the area’s geological significance and the 2010 eruption.

Golden Circle

The Golden Circle, one of Iceland’s most popular tourist routes, is located not too far from the Laugavegur Trail. This scenic loop is one of the most popular things tourists look for when they come to Iceland. The route includes three main attractions: Þingvellir (or Thingvellir) National Park, one of the three national parks in the country and home to some of Iceland’s most amazing features; Geysir, the geothermal area home to the Strokkur geyser; and Gullfoss, one of the most impressive waterfalls in the entire island.

While the Golden Circle is usually packed with tourists, especially in peak season, it’s still a fantastic route. Its proximity to the Laugavegur Trail makes it a must-do thing on your way to or back from the hike.

Laki Crater and Eldgjá Canyon

If you have a bit more time to explore the Highlands, which are highly recommended, Laki Crater and Eldgjá Canyon are two volcanic features worth visiting. Laki is a volcanic fissure that produced one of the largest lava flows recorded during its eruption in 1783. The area is marked by a chain of craters, which are visible as you hike across the barren volcanic landscape.

Eldgjá, on the other hand, is a massive volcanic canyon and one of the largest of its kind in the world. It’s located near the Laugavegur Trail and is often called the "Fire Canyon" due to its volcanic origins. The canyon features a stunning waterfall called Ófærufoss, which is well worth the hike.

Remember that the Highlands are only accessible in the summer months. Even then, check the road status on your route to make sure you don’t experience any setbacks.

The Weather on the Laugavegur Trail

Iceland is notorious for its unpredictable weather, and the Laugavegur Trail is no exception. While the trail is only open from June to August, it’s important to be prepared for various weather conditions. Not only that but because Icelandic weather can change at a moment’s notice, it’s better to be prepared for all situations. Because of this, we will only explain how the weather is during this time of the year.

In summer, temperatures usually range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F) in the area. While this might sound all right, keep in mind that the wind can make the temperature feel colder. You might experience sunshine, rain, wind, and even snow all in one day. Strong winds are common, especially on exposed ridges, and rain showers can move in quickly. That said, summer offers the best chance for relatively mild and stable weather, and the long daylight hours mean you’ll have plenty of time to hike. In Iceland, by the end of June, you can experience almost 24 hours of daylight.

What to Pack to Visit the Laugavegur Trail

Packing for the Laugavegur Trail requires some careful consideration, especially given the unpredictable weather. The best way to adapt to the weather in the Highlands, and in Iceland in general, is to wear layers. This way, you can adapt to the different situations that you will encounter along the way.

Here are some essentials you’ll want to have in your backpack:

• Good hiking boots: The terrain is rough and varied, so sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are a must.
• Warm clothing: As we said, dress in layers. Even in summer, you’ll need thermal underwear, a fleece jacket, and a waterproof outer layer to keep warm and dry.
• Rain gear: A high-quality waterproof jacket and pants are essential.
• Sleeping bag: If you're camping or staying in huts, bring a warm sleeping bag (at least rated for 0°C or lower).
• Tent: If you are going to camp, you’ll need to bring your own tent. Make sure it's durable, waterproof, and built for strong winds.
• Navigation tools: While the trail is well-marked, it's a good idea to have a map, compass, or GPS.
• Food and snacks: Depending on your accommodation, you may need to carry all your food with you.
• Reusable water bottles: There are plenty of fresh streams along the trail. The water is quite pure here, so you can fill up your bottle and drink directly from nature, it’s safe.

Conclusion

The Laugavegur Trail is more than just a hike; it’s an unforgettable journey through some of the most stunning and diverse landscapes on Earth. Whether you’re attracted by the colorful mountains of Landmannalaugar, the volcanic deserts, or the lush valleys of Þórsmörk, this trail will create memories that you’ll take with you forever.

It’s the perfect combination of challenge, solitude, and natural beauty, making it one of the world’s premier trekking destinations. If you're looking for a unique and rewarding adventure, the Laugavegur Trail is calling your name.