Laugavegur
Search for "best multi-day hikes in the world," and Laugavegur will consistently be on the list. There are good reasons for that. Challenging terrain, a vast plain, river crossings, epic mountain views, glaciers, and ever-changing weather all come together for an epic hike with just the right balance of challenge and reward.
Landmannalaugar
Walking north to south you will start in Landmannalaugar. We spent day one completing two-day hikes and finished off the day enjoying the thermal river that flows near the campsite.
Landmannalaugar to Hrafntinnusker
Day one on the trail started in sunshine and ended in the clouds. Even with a well-marked trail, traversing snowfields requires attention and diligence to make your way safely.
This was an adrenaline spiking snow climb. It wasn't until halfway up that we realized we should have had our microspikes on
Rock rings made from obsidian are in place at Hrafntinnusker to protect you from the wind. We went to sleep in the fog and woke up to a spectacular morning.
Hrafntinnusker to Álftavatn
This day was probably one of our favorites, in part due to the fantastic weather.
We took the long way around on the ridge in the background. We just didn't feel that the snow bridge was safe. Once on the other side and looking back we were glad we made the decision we did.
The hike down to Álftavatn is steep and requires being careful with your footing.
This day included our first river crossing.
Álftavatn to Emstrur
The most challenging river crossing of the hike and open plain that stretched for miles made for a spectacular day of hiking.
The Ermstrur campground hides until you get right on top of it. For a time you start to wonder if you will ever reach it.
Ermstur Canyon
This is a great side hike for your evening while staying at Ermstur.
Ermstrur to Porsmork, Volcano Huts
This amazing mountain was in view almost all day and gave us a different look each time we turned a corner.
We had planned to bus out this night and hike back in on the Fimmvörðuháls trail. With winds building in the mountains we opted to save Fimmvörðuháls for another time. Volcano Huts provided us with a nice pitch, good food, and a cold beer.
Volcano Huts, Day hikes, and Glamping.
With our glamping tent as a base, we spent the next days enjoying three separate and unique hikes from Þórsmörk.
Dry and warm nights were a special treat.
With improving weather we stepped out to sample Fimmvörðuháls.
The "Cat's Spine.
Stakkholtsgjá Canyon from Volcano Huts.
Our last day at Volcano Huts included one more fantastic day hike to a hidden waterfall.
Fimmvörðuháls sampler Skogar side. In and out.
Four days after our first Fimmvörðuháls sampler, while road tripping, we peeked at the Skogar side. In 2022 we hope to complete the Fimmvörðuháls trail on a stopover to or from Europe.
We had a great campsite Skogafoss. Just note if you chose this spot your tent will be soaked on the outside from the mist, no matter what the weather.