Best Hiking Trails in Iceland

Based on its name alone, you might picture a vast frozen wilderness, but actually only 11% of Iceland is covered with ice.

Beyond that, there are many varied and gorgeous landscapes for you to explore on an amazing hike. This guide to the best trekking routes in Iceland covers different regions of the country, so be ready to strap on your boots and set off on the adventure of a lifetime.

1. Dettifoss Waterfall, North Iceland

Best waterfall hike
3.5km (2.2 miles) round-trip; 1–2 hours; 95m (312ft) elevation; easy

Stand in the presence of an incredible natural force when you visit Dettifoss, the second most powerful waterfall in Europe. This “must-do” stop along the famous Diamond Circle route in North Iceland is a testament to why sometimes it’s true that bigger is better.

Arriving at the viewpoint is likely to send butterflies straight to your stomach. You might even catch a rainbow or two as the mist from the mighty waterfall hangs in the air. Whether you’re hiking in winter or summer, the views of the waterfall are incredible.

2. Mount Esja, just outside Reykjavík

Best hiking route near the capital city
7.7km (4.8 miles) round-trip; 3 hours; 723m (2372ft) elevation; challenging

Reykjavík’s skyline would not be complete without the impressive Mount Esja as a gorgeous backdrop, and the mountain’s dominating presence reminds city dwellers that nature is just a stone’s throw away.

This volcanic mountain range is home to several well-worn hiking trails, most of which end at Steinn (the rock), aptly named after the giant rock on the mountain. The gorgeous views of the metro Reykjavík area, the sea, and nature along the trail make this short drive from downtown a no-brainer for hikers looking for a walking route near the city.

For an extra challenge and even more spectacular views, keep hiking up the steep path to the top of the mountain range, where the few that make it this far can enjoy the top practically to themselves.

3. Reykjadalur Hot Spring, near Reykjavík

One of Iceland’s most popular hikes
8km (4.9 miles) round-trip; 2 hours; 347m (1138ft) elevation; moderate

This 8km-long trek to the Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River is full of enchantment. It takes one hour to arrive at the geothermal river, but steam can be seen rising from the various hot springs dotted along the path.

In summer, visitors can enjoy the vibrant and dewy green grass covering the mountains. Regardless of the season, a warm soak in the calm and soothing hot spring river is a must; bring a pair of water shoes to avoid slipping on rocks in the water.

4. Geldingadalir/Fagradallsfjall Volcano Hike, Reykjanes Peninsula

Iceland’s best volcano hike
4.2km (2.6 miles) point to point; 1–2 hours; 284m (932ft) elevation; moderate to challenging

Volcanic eruptions in Geldingadalir Valley have caught the attention of media outlets around the world. This amazing spectacle of new earth being born attracts photographers, hikers, and adventure-seekers to this secluded area to witness this natural phenomenon.

However, check online for updates, closures, and maps of the hazard zone, as landscapes are constantly changing due to the steady flow of lava into the valley. It’s essential to stay informed and prioritize safety when exploring this magnificent region.

5. Snæfellsjökull Glacier, West Iceland

One of Iceland’s best glacier hikes
9.5km (5.9 miles) round-trip; 7–10 hours; 841m (2759ft) elevation; challenging

Within one of Iceland’s three national parks, Snæfellsjökull glacier offers an otherworldly experience. The journey from summer temperatures at the base to the winter wonderland at the top enriches the mind and soul. Experienced hikers can expect incredible views of the stunning Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

6. Glymur Waterfall, West Iceland

Iceland’s best short hike
6.9km (4.3 miles) loop; 3–4 hours; 397m (1302ft) elevation; moderate

Just an hour from Reykjavík, you can hike your way up to Glymur, Iceland’s second-highest waterfall, cascading down at 198m (650ft). This West Iceland jewel is found on a moderate 6.9km loop that boasts steep cliffs, rivers, caves, and birds gliding effortlessly around the waterfall. It’s easily one of Iceland’s best short hikes.

7. Stuðlagil Canyon Hike, East Iceland

Best easy hike for great photographs
9.2km (5.7 miles) round-trip; 2–3 hours; 171m (561ft) elevation; easy

A hike full of character and wondrous natural formations, Stuðlagil is a gem of East Iceland that wins best spot for epic photographs, featuring a stately basalt column canyon and a captivating blue river.

8. Kerið Crater Lake, South Iceland

Best accessible hike
1.4km (0.8 miles) round-trip; 1 hour; 35m (115ft) elevation; easy

For a stunning short and easy hike, visit Kerið Crater in South Iceland. The combination of bright-red lava rock, neon-green moss, and a blue-green lake is a visual delight. The area has well-laid paths, making it one of the best hikes for accessibility.

9. Sólheimajökull, South Iceland

One of the best places for a glacier hike
2.4km (1.5 miles) round-trip; 1 hour; 114m (374ft); moderate

Located between Katla and Eyjafjallajökull, Sólheimajökull is popular for its impressive scenery and icy landscape. Depending on your fitness, you can opt for a fun glacier hike or a longer adventure that includes ice climbing, always with proper equipment and expert guidance.

10. Lake Mývatn Loop, North Iceland

Best scenic hike
36.4km (22.6 miles) loop; 8 hours; 739m (2425ft) elevation; moderate

A highlight of the Diamond Circle, Lake Mývatn offers rich local flora and fauna. The loop around the volcanic lake is not widely known, allowing for a peaceful experience surrounded by islands, craters, and magnificent mountain views.

11. The famous Laugavegur Trail, Highlands

Iceland’s best multiday hike
52.1km (33 miles) point-to-point; 4 days; 1772m (5814ft) elevation; moderate

This trek offers a taste of the varying Icelandic highlands, crossing wildflower fields, black desert sand, and glacial rivers. It’s perfect for those wishing to unplug from the digital world and reconnect with nature.

12. Látrabjarg Cliff, Westfjords

Best hiking route for spotting seabirds
5.3km (3.3 miles) round-trip; 2–3 hours; 521m (1709ft) elevation; easy

There’s nothing quite like seeing puffins nesting peacefully by the ocean on the tranquil hike alongside Látrabjarg Cliff. Puffins only nest in Iceland from late April to August, so timing your visit is essential to observing these fascinating birds from a safe distance.

13. Hornstrandir, Westfjords

Best hike in the summer months
80.6km (50.1 miles) point-to-point; 6 days on average; 3562m (11,686ft) elevation; hard

Experience pure Icelandic wilderness in the secluded Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, accessible only by boat. Spotting the adorable arctic fox is common in this region, and it’s highly recommended to make it a multi-day experience to fully immerse in its rugged beauty.

Top tips for hiking in Iceland

• The weather in Iceland can change drastically at a moment’s notice. Always check the weather before heading out and refrain from hiking in areas with storm warnings.

• Use Safetravel, the official source for safe travel in Iceland, to check for alerts and submit a travel plan.

• Packing and wearing appropriate layers of clothing, especially rain-resistant gear, will keep you dry and warm on your adventure.

• Pack microspikes if you plan to do winter hiking, as trails can be very slippery when icy.

• During summer, midges or biting flies may be present, so it’s advisable to have a flynet in your hiking backpack.

This article was updated Jul 21, 2023.