Hiking to the Active Volcano in Iceland
On the following day at The Retreat at The Blue Lagoon, our day commenced with a soothing swim, followed by breakfast and a resolve to hike to the stunning viewpoint of the recently erupted Meradalir volcano.
As noted in this prior post, we had undertaken this hike previously but ultimately found ourselves at an less-than-optimal vantage point of the volcano.
The following day, we had attempted this hike on the proper route, yet an unexpected change in weather prompted the authorities to close the volcano hiking trail.
However, with the current news indicating that the hiking trail was open and the weather appearing favorable, we decided to proceed.
Thus, we enjoyed an early lunch and ventured to the supermarket to gather supplies for the hike.
This time, we somewhat overpacked snacks, a stark contrast to my previous hike when I neglected to consider water, assuming the excursion would be brief.
Fortunately, Lloyd had packed water during that prior hike, although we both failed to bring snacks.
Consequently, with our supplies adequately stocked, we made our way to the correct parking area for the hike and commenced our journey towards the volcano.
This hiking trail proved to be complex, yet not in the anticipated ways.
The initial portion of the trail commenced with a relatively swift upward trajectory, though it is significantly less steep than alternate routes.
The trail then meanders in a zig-zag pattern as it ascends towards the apex of the mountain, and this portion is considerably more challenging, despite the terrain being flat.
The entirety of the path is strewn with substantial rocks, remnants of prior volcanic eruptions, making it mentally taxing to traverse without stumbling.
Initially, the journey feels manageable, yet as one progresses further, the trail’s complexity escalates. Although ongoing efforts to establish a path are currently in progress, they have not yet reached this stage.
The stunning view materializes as one approaches the pinnacle. Following the rain, the previous lava flow can be seen emanating steam in the distance, adding to the surreal quality of the experience.
At this point, our gratitude for our decision to return is profound, as the volcano’s view corresponds precisely to that displayed in the media, which had initially inspired our first hike.
The spectacle is astonishing, particularly witnessing the lava that resembles flowing water despite its solid state.
As twilight approaches, accentuated by cloud cover rather than the actual sunset, the lava fields begin to glow, elucidating the molten lava’s path through the valley from the volcanic eruption.
The energy was exhilarating, to say the least, as we headed further toward the lava flow’s edge.
Notably, Icelandic safety officials were overseeing this area, vigilantly monitoring gas levels emitted by the volcano.
Incidentally, some visitors arrived carrying fish, which they roasted using the geothermal heat from the lava flow, showcasing an unusual yet innovative method of cooking.
This extraordinary experience was beyond compare!
Ultimately, we spent more time here than initially anticipated. Well past midnight, it was time to return to the car.
With our flight scheduled shortly and no time to check into our hotel for the night, we initiated our descent. However, the encounter was complicated by darkness and encroaching fog due to the cloud cover.
Navigating these conditions was quite the experience, but the lingering adrenaline and euphoria from witnessing the volcano’s grandeur propelled us through the hike.
Once past the rocky sections, the remaining terrain was manageable!
