Laugavegur Trail: A Guide to Iceland’s Most Famous Long-Distance Hike

Laugavegur Trail is Iceland’s most popular multi-day trek through the rugged landscape of the Highlands region. The hut-to-hut hiking route stretches between Landmannalaugar and Þórsmörk for 55 km (34 mi) and takes 3 to 4 days to complete. Each section is marked by contrasting sights, like colorful rhyolite mountains, black sand deserts, forests, and glacier valleys. This trail is one of the most beautiful hikes in the world, even recognized by National Geographic.

The Laugavegur trail is located in the uninhabited Icelandic Highlands, stretching 55 km (34 mi) southward. It begins in Landmannalaugar’s hot springs and climbs over Hrafntinnusker’s windswept plateaus. From there, the route descends past Álftavatn and Hvanngil’s remote river plains, crosses Emstrur’s barren volcanic deserts, and ends in Þórsmörk’s birch forests. There are no paved roads or settlements along the route—only mountain huts and designated campsites. Hikers can extend the trek 25 km (15 mi) with the Fimmvörðuháls trail, crossing between glaciers before descending to Skógar’s coastal lowlands. The trail is only open in summer, accessible by special buses and 4x4 vehicles from Reykjavik.

Commonly known as one of the most scenic Iceland hiking trails, the Laugavegur trek is divided into four sections over four to five days. It begins in steaming geothermal terrain, followed by the longest section through glacial valleys and volcanic peaks. Next comes a stretch of black deserts carved by rivers before the final descent into lush birch forests, completing this backpacking adventure in Iceland.

Distance: 55 km (34 mi)

Time: 4 days

Total Ascent: ~1,500 m (~4,920 ft)

Highest Point: 1,060 m (3,474 ft) at Hrafntinnusker

The hiking path is a well-marked, multi-day trail through Iceland’s Southern Highlands. It follows wooden posts along a well-worn path. The trek is logistically straightforward but physically demanding, with exposed sections, steep climbs, and river crossings. The route begins in Landmannalaugar mountains, a part of a larger Fjallabak Nature Reserve. Steaming hot springs and colorful rhyolite mountains set the stage. The first section climbs toward Hrafntinnusker, the hike's highest and often coldest part of the journey. From there, the trail descends into Þórsmörk, where the highlands give way to sheltered forests.

Distance: 12 km (7.5 mi)

Ascent: 427 m (1,400 ft)

Time: 3 to 4 hours

The first part is considered the most challenging, with continuous ascents and descents. The trek begins at Landmannalaugar Hut, a base for tours and a popular stop for day hikers exploring the Fjallabak Nature Reserve. Expect to see more people here before the crowd thins out further along the trail. The first day’s route passes Brennisteinsalda mountain’s colorful slopes, crosses the Laugahraun lava field, and descends into Stórihver’s steaming vents and mud pools. The final climb leads to Hrafntinnusker Hut, surrounded by black obsidian fields and sweeping mountain views. Snow often lingers here into summer, making it one of the coldest sections.

Distance: 12 km (7.5 mi) 

Descent: 490 m (1,610 ft)

Time: 4 to 5 hours

The second part of the route is of moderate difficulty, taking hikers from Hrafntinnusker’s barren, windswept plateau into greener landscapes. You’ll walk through small ravines, often holding snow even in summer, before reaching the Jökultungur hills, where deep valleys open below. A steep descent leads you to Grashagakvísl, a river cutting through a mossy oasis. From here, the scenery shifts dramatically—dark volcanic terrain gives way to the Álftavatn lake, where glacial water reflects towering peaks. While Álftavatn hut is the first major accommodation with a campsite, some hikers opt to stay overnight in Hrafntinnusker’s small hut before continuing. Fog and strong winds are frequent in this stretch.

Distance: 16 km (10 mi)

Descent: 60 m (200 ft)

Time: 6 to 7 hours

The third part of the trail features multiple river crossings, starting right near the hut with the Bratthálskvísl river. From there, climbing the green Brattháls ridge takes you to Hvanngil Hut, a good alternative to staying at Álftavatn for those who walk more on the previous day. After crossing the Kaldaklofskvísl river by footbridge, you'll encounter Bláfjallakvísl, a glacial river that must be crossed on foot. The final crossing, Innri Emstruá, is with a bridge. As you continue, the lush landscapes quickly give way to the obsidian dark sands of the Mælifellssandur desert. The section ends at Emstrur Hut, near the dramatic 200 m (656 ft) deep Markarfljótsgljúfur canyon.

Distance: 15 km (9 mi)

Descent: 228 m (750 ft)

Time: 6 to 7 hours

The final leg of the journey begins with volcanic landscapes and a steep descent. A wooden bridge spans the canyon, leading to a plateau where the Syðri-Emstruá and Markarfljót rivers carve through the highlands. The trail winds through the Almenningar area, passing Slyppugil and Bjórgil ravines, where clear streams provide fresh drinking water. As you progress, the increasing greenery signals the approach to Þórsmörk nature reserve. A footbridge over Ljósá is followed by a final climb over Kápa hill before descending to Þröngá, the last river crossing. The trail ends in the lush Thórsmörk valley, where the Básar hut rests at the foot of Eyjafjallajökull glacier.

Distance: 25 km (15.5 mi)

Ascent: ~1,000 m (3,280 ft)

Time: 8 to 10 hours

The Laugavegur and Fimmvörðuháls trail combo is a legendary multi-day route connecting Iceland’s highlands to the South Coast. From Þórsmörk, the trail climbs steeply through volcanic terrain to Fimmvörðuháls hike, where you can see the craters Magni and Móði, formed by the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption. A hut at the summit is a resting point before descending toward the Skógá River. This section is famous for its series of over 20 waterfalls, culminating in the iconic Skógafoss. The trail ends in Skógar, a small village with a campsite and guesthouses, marking the official end of this epic trek from the highlands to the coast.

The Laugavegur Trail starts at 600 m (1,968 ft) in Landmannalaugar, climbing to its highest point at 1,141 m (3,743 ft) in Hrafntinnusker. It then descends to 537 m (1,761 ft) at Álftavatn and continues dropping to 465 m (1,525 ft) at Emstrur. The final stretch leads downhill to 200 m (656 ft) in Þórsmörk.

The Laugavegur hiking trail is packed with unforgettable sights, from lava fields to immense glaciers and deep canyons. Hikers pass through steaming geothermal areas, black sand deserts, and glacial rivers, experiencing some of Iceland’s most diverse landscapes. Hikes near hot springs make Landmannalaugar a spectacular starting point.

Landmannalaugar: A geothermal wonder in the heart of the Icelandic Highlands. It is renowned for its numerous swimmable hot springs, which have earned it the affectionate nickname “the People’s Pools.” The area is dominated by rhyolite mountains, their slopes painted naturally in striking shades of red, pink, and green.

Hrafntinnusker: A dramatic mountain sitting atop a volcanic system, unlikely to erupt anytime soon. Named after the obsidian rocks that coat the land in deep black, its stark contrast of colors and textures is truly breathtaking. Icelanders used the volcanic rock from the surrounding lava fields to build structures like the National Theatre.

Álftavatn: Translating to "Swan Lake," Álftavatn is a scenic body of water on the trail, surrounded by green hills and volcanic terrain. Named after the whooper swans that visit, it also attracts ducks and other birds. A large hut is located nearby, and shallow rivers—easily forded on foot—separate it from the rest of the Highlands.

Hvanngil: A valley nestled between moss-covered hills and volcanic ridges, acting as a shelter from strong highland winds. The hut and campsite sit beside a small river crossing near an old sheep enclosure. Surrounded by black sand plains and hardened lava formations, this valley marks the transition into harsher, more exposed terrain.

Emstrur: A highlands desert region surrounded by black sand plains and steep ravines. Markarfljótsgljúfur Canyon, plunging 200 m (656 ft), dominates the landscape. Snow-capped peaks of Mýrdalsjökull glacier rise in the distance, contrasting against the barren terrain. Patches of moss and wildflowers soften the volcanic desolation, creating an otherworldly scene.

Þórsmörk: A nature reserve nudged between Tindfjallajökull, Mýrdalsjökull, and Eyjafjallajökull glaciers. The “Valley of Thor” name comes from the landscape of green moss patches, black volcanic sands, and woods—a lush paradise allegedly crafted by a Nordic God. The panoramic mountain views from the surrounding ridges complete this stunning landscape.

Fimmvörðuháls: A dramatic mountain pass nestled between the Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers. In 2010, the Eyjafjallajökull eruption tore open a 500-meter (1,640-foot) fissure, spewing lava and ash. The event reshaped the landscape, creating two craters, Magni and Móði, named after Thor’s sons in Norse mythology. Today, the area showcases fresh volcanic terrain, a stark reminder of Iceland’s ever-changing geology.

Skógar: A charming village at the end of the Fimmvörðuháls trail. The path leading to Þórsmörk is dotted with waterfalls, with the biggest one being Skógafoss at 60 m (196 ft). Skogar Museum, composed of six historical buildings, holds around 18 artifacts of cultural importance to Icelanders. Route 1 goes right on the edge of the town, connecting it to Reykjavík and other attractions, like Sólheimajökull Glacier.

The Laugavegur trail length is 55 kilometers (34 miles), extending up to ~78 kilometers (48 miles) if you reach Skogar via Fimmvörðuháls extension. An average hiker completes the route in 3 to 4 days, with an additional day if you include the journey through the mountain pass. The trek is considered moderate to challenging due to many elevation changes and river crossings. While not highly technical, it is physically demanding. Expect steep ascents and descents, vast open plains, and unpredictable Icelandic weather—significantly harsher in the Highlands. To add to the challenge, trekkers must carry a backpack of essentials for the entire journey.

Icelandic Highlands are accessible from late June to early September when temperatures average 5–12°C (41–54°F) during the day and 1–5°C (34–41°F) at night. Snow tends to stick to mountainous areas, but strong winds and rainfall are frequent throughout the route. The hiking season coincides with the Midnight Sun, giving you nearly 24 hours of daylight to explore.

From late fall to early spring, temperatures drop below -5°C (23°F). Harsher weather conditions increase the risk of isolation and hypothermia. Huts close down as the massive snowfall on the paths makes them inaccessible. For this reason, Laugavegur trail-guided hikes and self-guided adventures are conducted only in the summer.

Laugavegur trail huts are found along the entirety of the route and provide two forms of accommodations: indoor spaces and camping in tents. The cost to reserve a spot at Landmannalaugar, Hrafntinnusker, Álftavatn, Hvanngil, Emstrur, and Þórsmörk between May 1, 2025, and April 30, 2026, is 15,800 ISK (€107.63 / $112.63) per location. Laugavegur trail camping is slightly cheaper, costing 3,200 ISK (€21.80 / $22.84) per night (FÍ, Iceland Touring Association).

Larger huts have running water and flush toilets, while smaller ones require fetching water from streams and using outdoor lavatories. All huts provide drinking water, but bedding is not included—bring your own sleeping bag. Hut guests can use shared kitchens with gas stoves, while campers need their own cooking gear. Some huts sell snacks, but hot meals are rare. Basic facilities like indoor toilets and outdoor grills cost 700 ISK (€4.77 / $5), and showers are 1,000 ISK (€6.81 / $7). Hut rules require hikers to carry out all trash, respect quiet hours, and keep common areas clean.

Mountain huts: Provide shelter from the weather, have limited spots (advance booking required), offer less privacy, include kitchen and indoor toilet access, and are more expensive.

Camping sites: More affordable, offer greater privacy, but are exposed to harsh weather, require more gear, lack hut kitchen access, and make cooking more challenging.

The number one rule is to use a spacious 55 to 70-liter backpack with back support that won’t strain your back during the long journey. Next, dress in weather-appropriate layers: a quick-drying base layer, an insulating mid layer, and a waterproof, windproof outer shell to protect against rainfall and strong winds in the Highlands. Avoid jeans or cotton clothes, as they offer little protection from the strong winds and precipitation. Lastly, pack light. You'll be traveling for 3 to 4 days, so only put essentials on your Laugavegur packing list to avoid unnecessary weight.

Clothing: Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants, Moisture-wicking base layers (merino wool or synthetic), insulating mid-layer (fleece or down jacket), long-sleeve moisture-wicking shirt (merino wool or synthetic), extra pairs of wool socks and underwear, gloves, hat, and buff (for warmth and wind protection).

Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots (broken-in), sandals for river crossings, camp shoes for rest stops, and gaiters for mud and snow.

Camping gear: Lightweight tent (wind-resistant), sleeping bag (insulated for warmth), compact stove and fuel, cookware and utensils, a headlamp with extra batteries.

Food and water: High-energy, lightweight meals (dehydrated or freeze-dried), nuts, dried fruit, energy bars for snacks, a 2-liter water bottle, water filter, or purification tablets.

Navigation tools: Phone, map of Laugavegur route, GPS device, compass, personal locator beacon.

Other: Trekking poles, microspikes, first-aid kit, multi-tool, sunglasses, swimsuit, biodegradable soap, personal toiletries, lip balm, sunscreen, plastic bags, battery backup.

Buses from Reykjavík to Landmannalaugar operate from June to mid-September, with tickets costing 12,900 ISK (€88 / $92). They depart from the Reykjavík BSI terminal at 07:00 and return from Landmannalaugar at 15:45. You can also self-drive 192 km (119 mi) in about 3 hours, but a 4x4 is required due to F-roads.

Shuttles from Þórsmörk to Reykjavík stop at Húsadalur, Langidalur, and Básar, with tickets at 11,999 ISK (€82.67 / $86.62). Departure is 15:00–16:00, depending on the stop. A bus from Skógar Campsite to Reykjavík leaves at 10:15, costing 8,999 ISK (€62 / $65). May and mid-September to November have fewer services.

Iceland’s weather is capricious, even in summer. Expect sudden storms, strong winds, and even freezing nights. Check the Laugavegur trail weather forecast before setting out. Pack layers, waterproof gear, and extra food. River crossings require caution—unbuckle your backpack, cross at the widest point, and use trekking poles for balance. If the current is too strong, turn back. Get travel insurance, and carry a GPS, map, first aid kit, and emergency shelter. Bring a waste bag to follow Leave No Trace principles—there are no trash disposal services. In an emergency, dial 112 or use an Icelandic emergency beacon, available for rent in Reykjavík.

Laugavegur in Iceland is one of the world’s most stunning hikes, with hot springs, colorful rhyolite mountains, lush valleys, and glaciers. You'll trek through deep canyons, vast lava fields, and across obsidian terrain, spending nights beneath the Midnight Sun. One moment, you’re crossing a glacial river; the next, you’re standing in silence, surrounded by steaming earth and distant ice caps. Whether chasing adventure or solitude, hiking trails in Iceland rarely match the raw beauty of Laugavegur—a journey that stays with you long after the last step.