Iceland, a land of fire and ice, offers some of the most breathtaking and picturesque hiking trails in the world. Whether you’re staying in Ísafjörður, Stykkishólmur, Hvítá in Borgarfjörður, Klettasel in Hof in Öræfi, Drangshlíð in south Iceland, or Hrífunes close to Vík, you’ll find an array of stunning landscapes waiting to be explored. Here are some of the most scenic hiking trails in Iceland that you simply cannot miss.
One of the most iconic hiking trails in Iceland is the Laugavegur Trail. This 55-kilometer trek takes you through a diverse range of landscapes, from colorful rhyolite mountains to black sand deserts and lush green valleys. The trail starts in Landmannalaugar and ends in Þórsmörk, offering hikers a chance to experience the raw beauty of Iceland’s highlands. For those staying in Drangshlíð, this trail is a must-visit.
For those based in Ísafjörður, the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve offers some of the most remote and untouched hiking trails in Iceland. This area is only accessible by boat, making it a true wilderness experience. The trails here take you through dramatic fjords, towering cliffs, and pristine beaches. Keep an eye out for Arctic foxes and seabirds as you hike through this stunning landscape.
If you’re staying in Stykkishólmur, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula offers a variety of hiking trails that showcase the best of Iceland’s natural beauty. One of the most popular trails is the hike to the top of Snæfellsjökull, a glacier-capped volcano that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Other notable trails include the coastal hike from Arnarstapi to Hellnar and the hike to the Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge.
For those staying in Hvítá in Borgarfjörður, the Glymur Waterfall hike is a must-do. This trail takes you to the second-highest waterfall in Iceland, which cascades down a 198-meter drop into a narrow canyon. The hike is moderately challenging, with river crossings and steep sections, but the views of the waterfall and the surrounding landscape are well worth the effort.
Klettasel in Hof in Öræfi is the perfect base for exploring the hiking trails of Vatnajökull National Park. One of the most popular trails in this area is the hike to Svartifoss, a stunning waterfall surrounded by basalt columns. Another great option is the hike to the Skaftafell Glacier, where you can get up close to the ice and even take a guided glacier walk with [Troll Expeditions](https://www.troll.is).
Finally, for those staying in Hrífunes close to Vík, the Fimmvörðuháls Trail is a must-visit. This challenging 25-kilometer hike takes you from Skógar to Þórsmörk, passing by the famous Skógafoss waterfall and the newly formed lava fields from the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption. The trail offers stunning views of glaciers, volcanoes, and lush valleys, making it one of the most scenic hikes in Iceland.
No matter where you’re staying in Iceland, there’s a scenic hiking trail waiting for you. Be sure to plan your hikes carefully, check the weather conditions, and always be prepared for the unpredictable Icelandic weather. Happy hiking!