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Hiking The Fimmvörðuháls Trail In Iceland

I've embraced your call for adventure, focusing on delivering just that! A hiking escapade in the land of Fire and Ice, on the 16-mile Fimmvörðuháls Trail in Iceland. Just a scenic few-hour drive from the Dalur Hostel and Campground, we're making the most of the nearly endless daylight for exploration.

Iceland boasts an incredibly diverse landscape. Additionally, the Fimmvörðuháls hiking route from Skógar to Thórsmörk stands out with its three distinct terrains, captivating you with cascading waterfalls, stark lava fields, verdant mountain vistas, and lush, forested landscapes.

1: In contrast to wild camping along the AT, CDT, PCT, or other long-distance trails in the US, the 16 mile Fimmvörðuháls Trail offers 2 huts and designated tent camping areas. Camping or hut permits can be obtained through the Iceland Touring Association (FÍ), which manages 40 mountain huts across Iceland, including those along the Fimmvörðuháls trail.

Given the high demand for hut accommodations, it's advisable to book your lodging well in advance. However, tent camping remains accessible without requiring a reservation.

Additionally, all camping areas now operate on a cashless basis. Remember to have your credit card on hand, or utilize payment methods such as Apple Pay or Google Pay.

2: It's imperative to carry an ample supply of water while traversing this trail. The huts lack running water and rely solely on melted snow for hydration.

3: While the Fimmvörðuháls Trail is suitable for novice backpackers, it's essential to adequately train and prepare for the trip by familiarizing yourself with your hiking pace.

4: Schedule your pickup and dropoff to and from the trailhead from the Dalur Hostel/Campground. Purchase a one-way ticket to Skógar with a return ticket from Þórsmörk Básar or vice versa.

5: When you arrive from the airport at the BSI Bus Terminal in Reykjavik there is a small camp store within the terminal, before picking up a fuel canister here for your time on the trails, check for leftover fuel canisters at the Dalur Campgrounds. Many backpackers leave the remainder of their gas canisters on the For Free Shelves next to the outdoor sinks in the courtyard. If there isn’t one available on the For Free Shelf, there are several camping and recreation stores in Reykjavik where you can purchase a fuel canister.

6: Secure your travel essentials and luggage at a long-term storage facility. Lockers are available at the BSI Bus Terminal, but the storage lockers tend to fill up rapidly. I stayed at the Dalur Hostel/Campground and stored my luggage and other belongings I did not take on the trail. Their storage facility is affordably priced and conveniently accessible all day by simply requesting assistance from a front desk staff member.

7: I recommend renting a car for a day, I rented from Blue Car Rentals, instead of opting for the Golden Circle Tour, which entails eight hours of mostly drive time with brief stops at Gullfoss, the Geyser, and Thingviller National Park.

Renting a car provides the freedom to spend more time at these stunning locations and make stops along the scenic route to capture photos or perhaps interact with the friendly Icelandic horses. Furthermore, during the summer months, daylight persists for nearly 24 hours, offering ample time for exploration.

8: Before embarking on your journey, it's crucial to review the weather forecast. In the event of an impending storm, if feasible, consider postponing your trip for a day or two. Additionally, consult the weather report displayed each day located at each hut's check-in station. This report will also provide updates on potential obstacles such as broken bridges, volcanic activity, or rock/mudslides.

The Hike Journal - Litli-Hrutur Volcano and The Fimmvörðuháls Trail

Following that, I proceeded to obtain my entrance visa, passport stamp, and retrieve my backpack and suitcase. Yet, I couldn't shake my curiosity about the commotion.

Since I'd be staying in Iceland for quite a while—44 days to be exact—I had my backpacking gear and a large suitcase, containing an entire wardrobe. Without delay, I headed to the Dalur Hostel/Campground to store my belongings in their long-term storage room. Their storage facility is affordably priced and conveniently accessible all day by simply requesting assistance from a front desk staff member.

I pitched my tent in their campground, where I planned to stay for a couple of days before being joined by two friends at Hotel Vera in Downtown Reykjavik.

To my surprise, I discovered that a friend from Boston was also in the country at the same time. We seized the opportunity to embark on a brief tour of the Golden Circle.

I recommend renting a car for a day, I rented from Blue Car Rentals, instead of opting for the Golden Circle Tour, which entails eight hours of mostly drive time with brief stops at Gullfoss, the Geyser, and Thingviller National Park. Renting a car provides the freedom to spend more time at these stunning locations and make stops along the scenic route to capture photos or perhaps interact with the friendly Icelandic horses. Furthermore, during the summer months, daylight persists for nearly 24 hours, offering ample time for exploration.

After my friend and her husband from Boston continue on the drive across Iceland, I eagerly anticipate the arrival of my friends to delve into Reykjavik's attractions and indulge in relaxation at the Sky Lagoon.

My initial visit to Litli-Hrutur took me along one of the easier routes—a round-trip hike of 8 miles with an elevation gain/loss of 1260 feet. While not without its challenges, it paled in comparison to the 12-mile round-trip hike, accompanied by my friends a few days later, which boasted an elevation gain/loss of 2641 feet and brought us closer to the volcanic activity.

There's an indescribable allure to experiencing the earth's rumble while witnessing the mesmerizing spectacle of lava erupting to incredible heights, observing as the molten rock transitions from red to black upon contact with the ground, and feeling the heat and catching the scent of acrid sulfur carried by shifting winds. We sat along the mountainside for over an hour, transfixed by the hypnotic and formidable display of Mother Nature's power.

This encounter is just the beginning, and I find myself utterly captivated. I eagerly anticipate uncovering more awe-inspiring sights as we embark on the Fimmvörðuháls Trail.

Day 3: The Fimmvörðuháls Trail - Iceland

Today marks the commencement of our journey along the Fimmvörðuháls Trail, affectionately known as the F Trail, spanning a distance of 16 miles from point to point.

The landscape unfolds in captivating splendor, showcasing some of Iceland's most breathtaking scenery, from cascading canyon waterfalls to expanses of grassy tundra and volcanic moonscapes. This trail truly offers a diverse array of natural wonders.

Yet, easy it is not. For me, this proved to be one of the most challenging hikes I've undertaken. At times during the two-day trek, I found myself comparing it to the difficulty of hiking Kilimanjaro, and in my opinion, Mt. Kilimanjaro was easier.

Our adventure begins at the renowned Skógafoss waterfall in Skogar, where we pause to capture some memorable selfies before embarking on the daunting uphill climb of over 3500 feet to reach Fimmvörðuháls Hut, our campsite for the night.

While tent camping was an option, we opted for the comfort of the hut. Although quite snug (to put it mildly), the overnight stay in the cozy confines of the hut, priced at 12,500 ISK or approximately $90, proved to be well worth it to escape the chilly night air. Additionally, the opportunity to engage with fellow outdoor enthusiasts from around the globe was a significant highlight.

Tomorrow, our journey continues as we descend into Thórsmörk, before returning to Reykjavik to rendezvous with a couple more friends to complete the remainder of the trail.

Day 4: Next stop - Thórsmörk

After a delightful stay and mingling with fellow hikers at the hut, we're geared up to descend from the volcano and immerse ourselves in the lush greenery of Thórsmörk.

While the ascent was challenging, the descent offered a completely different adventure, with my knees protesting against the steep downhill slopes. At times, there were moments when I found myself resorting to a seated shuffle down the incline - I must admit, it’s quite a sight. Perhaps even worthy of a spot on America's Funniest Home Videos. Fortunately, the breathtaking scenery was distracting the other hikers on the trail.

Similar to our ascent, the descent consumed most of the day, but it was an unforgettable experience. It doesn't get much better than this. I'm eagerly anticipating what the Laugervagur Trail has in store for us next.

Wrapping Up: Hiking The Fimmvörðuháls Trail

A thrilling hiking expedition awaits in the captivating realm of Fire and Ice, along the 16-mile Fimmvörðuháls Trail in Iceland. Merely a few hour drive from the Dalur Hostel and Campground, we're making the most of the abundant daylight hours for our exploration.

Iceland presents a remarkably diverse terrain. Furthermore, The Fimmvörðuháls Trail lives up to its reputation, captivating you with its stunning array of flowing waterfalls, glacial ice, expansive lava fields, picturesque green mountain vistas, and concluding with verdant forested scenery.

Have you hiked the Fimmvörðuháls Trail? Let me know about your experience in the comments.

See y’all on the trails.

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