Thorsmork: Iceland’s Scenic Paradise for Hiking, Nature, and Adventure

Thorsmork is a stunning nature reserve tucked between the gigantic Tindfjallajökull, Eyjafjallajökull, and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers. Named after the Norse god Thor (Þór in Icelandic), the "Valley of Thor" exudes a divine, almost otherworldly beauty. Glacier-fed rivers slash through the rugged landscape like bolts of lightning, while lush green slopes dotted with birch trees contain the beauty in one spot. Þórsmörk's breathtaking scenery invites exploration—whether through short nature walks, scenic hikes, or adventurous week-long treks. 

Thorsmork, Iceland’s beautiful heart, stands out for its jaw-dropping natural beauty—a masterpiece painted by Mother Nature herself. Meltwater from the Eyjafjallajökull glacier and the Mýrdalsjökull ice cap shapes the landscape with winding streams, their twisting paths snaking through the terrain like serpents. Moss-draped ridges and birch-covered slopes frame the rivers below, creating a harmonious balance between rugged wilderness and delicate greenery. 

The history of this lush valley is steeped in myth and legend—at least for those willing to believe. According to one tale, the thunder god Thor struck the earth with his mighty hammer, Mjölnir, carving out the deep valley that bears his name. Another version suggests he simply roamed these lands as if they were his home. Either way, the connection to the Norse god remains strong, earning the area its nickname: the Valley of Thor. 

In reality, Þórsmörk (pronounced Thorsmork) is a wonder sculpted by volcanic eruptions and glacier retreats. For example, the volcano underneath Eyjafjallajökull erupted in 2010, forming the dual Magni and Móði craters, now named after Thor’s sons in Norse mythology. Over time, the site's natural beauty has caught the eye of filmmakers, becoming one of the filming locations for Game of Thrones, a popular HBO show.  

Exploring on foot remains a favorite, with hiking trails stretching in every direction, each placing you in front of another beautiful view of the valley. The same vibrant greenery that draws visitors also draws wildlife, often visible from afar as you walk the trails. And if you need a break from the adventure, the area offers overnight stays and camping options for a deeper connection with the surroundings. Here’s a closer look at all the action the Highland valley offers: 

Hiking – Go on a þórsmörk hike, where every step opens a new window to surreal plains of loveliness. Trails of varying difficulty stretch out in all directions, showcasing the best of Icelandic hiking—lush birch forests, glacial streams, and ever-changing terrain. Þórsmörk also serves as a key junction: it marks the start of the scenic Fimmvörðuháls trail and the endpoint (or beginning) of the legendary Laugavegur trek. And if guided day tours aren’t your thing, you’re free to blaze the trails alone—solo adventures are just as welcome here. 

Camping and Overnight Stays – Spend the night beneath the icy Eyjafjallajökull and Myrdalsjökull glaciers. Several huts throughout Þórsmörk provide cozy bunk beds, welcoming solo travelers and groups alike. For those craving the classic Icelandic outdoor experience, pitch a tent and sleep under the stars. However, þórsmörk camping is only allowed in designated locations near the manned accommodation buildings. 

Wildlife Watching – Keep an eye out for the wildlife that calls the lush valley of Þórsmörk home. In summer, as the weather improves, birds like the golden plover settle on the rocky ridges, filling the air with song. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of an Arctic fox—native to the northern reaches of the globe—roaming the area during the quiet hours of dawn or dusk, especially between August and late March. While Iceland’s beloved puffins don’t nest in Þórsmörk, they can still be spotted on coastal wildlife tours nearby. 

Guided Tours – Join Thorsmork guided tours to get a more in-depth look at the green oasis's nooks and crannies. Sightseeing tour options vary in length, difficulty, and focus. Single-day þórsmörk super jeep tour is simple and straight to the point, while a private three-day excursion can become as detailed as you want. On the other hand, week-long expert-guided trekking adventures make this heart just one stop on a grand walk of the island’s interior. 

Summer and Winter Activities: Þórsmörk is mainly a summer destination, accessible via F-roads only in good weather. In peak season, it draws hikers on the Fimmvörðuháls and Laugavegur trails and campers seeking Iceland’s raw beauty. However, winter activities can still be enjoyed here if you come with a Super Jeep excursion. Snowshoeing is limited. Nevertheless, since it’s so far from urban centers, the valley becomes a perfect spot for enjoying the Northern Lights (if they appear). 

Other Unique Experiences: Besides the mentioned activities, you can also photograph the landscapes or enjoy the calm natural noises surrounding you. There are no Icelandic hot springs in and around Þórsmörk. Instead, travelers can dip into a sitting pool and sauna, perfect for unwinding after hikes, near Þórsmörk woods. 

þórsmörk nature reserve, while not one of the national parks in Iceland, is a hiking paradise. The winding trails that follow riverbanks or ascend steep mountain slopes lead to breathtaking vistas, where the entire beauty of the Thorsmork landscape opens up. If you’re looking to quench your thirst for adventure, here are some of the picturesque spots that are worth the hike: 

Þórsmörk Panorama: The 360-degree viewpoint atop Valahnúkur Mountain will take you to some of the best views in Þórsmörk, with sweeping vistas of distant glaciers, winding rivers, and the ever-changing ridges between them. You can reach this stunning spot by hiking the Þórsmörk-Panorama trail, which stretches about 4.5 km (2.8 mi) and takes roughly 2 hours. Starting from the Húsadalur huts, the trail climbs up Valahnúkur, passing through lush woodlands before reaching the summit. The path leads you east toward Skagfjörðsskáli and then north, returning you to the start. Plan to hike this trail in the summer when the valley is alive with vibrant greenery. 

Þórsmörk Langidalur: A vantage point into one of the dramatic ravines of Thorsmork, where towering mountain sides contain narrow glacier streams. This spot, named "Long Valley" in English, is bordered by two majestic glaciers—Mýrdalsjökull to the east and Eyjafjallajökull to the southwest. The place is along some of the most popular hiking trails, including the renowned Laugavegur route. The Langidalur hut, situated nearby, serves as both a resting point and a starting line for further adventures. Open from May to early October, the hut offers bunk accommodations or space to pitch a tent in designated camping zones. 

þórsmörk Húsadalur: A viewpoint into Húsadalur valley near a set of huts at the base of Valahnúkur slopes. The name Húsadalur—made up of hús, as in house, and dalur, meaning valley—translates to “House Valley” in English, a title it certainly lives up to. The mountains in the front and back contain the wide ravine, which houses a branching stream from the east. Setting the views aside, two paths lead you up a mountain that cuts through a patch of woods that bloom with green leaves in summer.  

Whether you head west, east, south, or north, hiking Thorsmork in any direction rewards you with one beautiful view after another. One moment, you’ll cross shallow glacial rivers into vibrant green pastures; the next, you’ll push yourself up a mountain trail through woodlands. Better yet, if you venture beyond the nature reserve, you can go on volcanic landscape hikes through lava fields and craters. You’ll have some of the best Icelandic hikes ever with these Thorsmork trails: 

Most of the Þórsmörk hiking routes start or end in either Húsadalur or Langidalur valleys. The trails vary in difficulty and length, with hikes around the area being moderate to easy and taking a day to complete. The Landmannalaugar to þórsmörk hike is the longest, while the Stakkholtsgjá canyon walk is the shortest. Your typical Thorsmork hiking tour usually follows one or two of the tours listed below in their itineraries: 

Laugavegur Trail—An iconic path that winds through the heart of the Icelandic Highlands, connecting Þórsmörk with the geothermal wonderland of Landmannalaugar. Spanning 55 km (34 mi), the trail is best tackled over 3 to 4 days, with overnight stays at the mountain huts or designated campsites along the way. Though physically demanding, every step on the Laugavegur trail leads you to yet another uncovered jewel of the island's interior. During the journey, you’ll enjoy the sights of thermal hot springs, vast obsidian deserts, and colorful rhyolite mountains, among many others.  

Fimmvörðuháls Trail—A scenic path that connects the nature reserve with Skógar in the South Coast. The 25 km (15.5 mi) long Fimmvörðuháls track is moderately challenging, primarily due to the elevation changes, making it best suited for summer hikes. The reward for your effort? Stunning views of the Magni and Móði volcano craters as you journey between the Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull ice caps. The trail culminates at the magnificent Skógafoss waterfall. If you don’t want to walk it, the Þórsmörk to Skógar bus runs from May to September. 

Thorsmork Valley Hike—A classic trail and a must for June–September months that touches upon the most famous sights in Thor’s backyard. In 3–4 hours, the circular Thorsmork hike takes you around Húsadalur valley, including a walk through birch woods, climbing up Tindfjöll slopes, and to the top of Valahnúkur mountain. Along the way, you’ll glimpse into Slyppugil Canyon and enjoy the panoramas of the nature reserve. Since the path is marked with posts guiding your way, the only obstacle left to conquer is the number of climbs and descents you’ll face.  

Stakkholtsgjá Canyon—An easy hike into a 2 km (1.24 mi) long ravine south of the volcanic Húsadalur huts. Instead of open views, you’ll walk into a narrow gap surrounded by tall rock walls, with a small stream guiding your way. If you walk to the very end, there’s a waterfall, whose small cascade becomes a grand attraction thanks to the sunlight rays coming from the hollow space above. Though families with older people and kids might struggle due to several water crossings, solo travelers can easily walk it in summer. 

The Tindfjöll Circle—A hiking route around Thorsmork that includes portions of the highlights trail. Climbing the slopes can be demanding, even during the summer time. Luckily, the travel path is marked with signs guiding you around the whole circle. If you’re not enjoying the distant peaks of Tindfjöll mountains, then take in the scenic vistas of Þórsmörk valley, which consists of Krossá river in the south and shifting hills all around. The length depends on where you start: travelers from Husadalur will walk 13.5 km (8.4 mi), while adventurers from Langidalur will face 9.5 km (5.9 mi). 

Thorsmork Volcano Hike—A thrilling 12 km (7.45 mi) loop that circles the mountain range dividing the area’s two main valleys. The Þórsmörk volcano hike is a demanding route that features steep climbs up the sides of Valahnúkur, followed by rapid descents back to the valley floor. The frequent elevation shifts make it a true challenge, even for seasoned hikers, but the effort pays off. For 8 to 10 hours, you’re treated to sweeping views of the valleys and glacier-fed rivers that shape the Þórsmörk landscape. Horizons reveal distant volcanic and mountainous formations. Though the Thorsmork volcano huts are the usual starting point, no one stops you from beginning in Langidalur mountain accommodations. 

If you’re up for spending the night in or near Thorsmork, the selection is limited but high-quality. The mountain huts, while not as polished as hotels outside of the Highlands, are still captivating, as they rest in the center of the natural beauty. Þórsmörk Gisting, an Icelandic saying for accommodations, extends to campsites and guesthouses, perfect for budget-friendly travelers. Additionally, the list of options extends if you include settlements outside of the valley, but their prices depend on the amenities, proximity, and other factors. 

Simple mountain-like huts serve as key accommodations in Thorsmork, while Icelandic camping is also an option for nature lovers. The area features one of Iceland’s top campsites, providing stunning morning views that make each stay unforgettable. 

Básar in Þórsmörk – A complex of huts surrounded by birch trees and bushes, which bloom with lively greens in spring and summer. While towering mountains rule south of the accommodations, the north faces the glacier streams that flow into the distant west. Near this place is the starting point of the Fimmvörðuháls path that connects Thorsmork to the South Coast. þórsmörk básar itself has modern facilities, including showers, WC, grill, and a designated campsite, where people can pitch a tent. 

Langidalur – A mountain hut managed by Iceland Touring Association (FÍ) and located in the mouth of Langidalur valley. The single building has two floors and can house up to 75 people. There are two kitchens and a dining hall—everything you need to converse with fellow travelers. If you step outside, you’re met with a valley view, framed by the shifting terrain and icy beauty of Mýrdalsjökull and Eyjafjallajökull.  

Volcano Huts Þórsmörk – A set of cottages at the base of Valahnúkur mountain and in the center of the largest valley in Thorsmörk. Two paths branch out of it. One leads to the summit of the ridge, where you get to see the streams merge. The other leads travelers to the southern ravine, where the Icelandic glaciers, Mýrdalsjökull and Eyjafjallajökull, truly shine. Besides camping and glamping sites, there are cottages and rooms where solo or group travelers can rest up. 

Þórsmörk Campsite – Mountain huts have designated þórsmörk camping right near the buildings. Básar Campsite is open from May 1st to September 30th, and payment is taken the day after a night is spent here. On the other side of the southern valley, Langidalur and Slyppugil campsite have basic facilities like toilets, showers, and cooking areas. Finally, the Húsadalur campsite is open when the Volcanic Huts are manned. All in all, the nature reserve is one of the best camp locations in Iceland, so space might be limited. 

Þórsmörk Glamping – Glamorous camping is available in Thorsmork, but relatively limited compared to other sites in Iceland. Besides huts and campsites, Volcanic Huts also allow for staying the night in larger and fancier tents. Inside them, you’ll find furniture, heaters, and made-up beds. Glamping is a fancier alternative to camping, especially if you’re looking to spend the night in comfort while still being close to the views of the lush valley. 

While there are no Thorsmork hotels to choose from, some are outside the nature reserve. Unlike the mountain huts, these accommodations focus on amenities rather than experience, but are nevertheless a perfect choice for spending the night in. 

Hotel Ranga – A luxurious countryside hotel located between the gateway towns of Hvolsvöllur and Hella in the northwest. The purpose of these accommodations is to combine the beauty of Iceland with the luxury of the modern world. Customers can choose from several rooms, which include the most modern master suites or simple standard ones. You can relax in the Ranga restaurant or bar, or step outside and enjoy the wilderness that surrounds you. It’s open all year round and features blackout curtains in most rooms to combat the brightness of the midnight sun. 

Hotel Geysir – An upscale hotel near the Golden Circle attraction of Haukadalur valley, home to the shooting waters of Strokkur. Though 126 km (78 mi) away from Thorsmork, the extra driving time is worth the price. Inside the walls of this nature-inspired family-run resting place are a restaurant, a shop, and four different room options. If you step outside, you’re met with the blasts of geysers to the north and fields of nature in other directions. Summer or winter, you can stay here anytime you explore the Golden Circle. 

While þórsmörk is not a national park, it is a nature reserve that stands out from the rest—the magnum opus of Mother Nature. Most come here for the godly views of curving meltwater streams, distant glaciers, mountain ranges, and green valleys. Others arrive while on their way to complete the iconic Laugavegur or Fimmvörðuháls trails, but remain for the rustic stays in mountain huts. Either way, exploring Thor’s valley while the God of Thunder resides in Thrudvangar is an unforgettable experience you don’t want to miss! 

The Valley of Thor, located in the south, is relatively close to other famous Icelandic spots. Most require a short drive, while others can be hiked to in several hours. Here are some of the jewels you can include in your Thorsmork trip itinerary: 

Hvolsvöllur: A town in the South Coast of Iceland and a common starting point for travelers heading to Þórsmörk. The settlement is an hour's drive or 47 km (35 mi) away from the nature reserve. Besides being a gateway town, Hvolsvöllur campsite and guesthouses offer places to sleep before or after visiting Thorsmork. Additionally, Hvolsvöllur LAVA center can broaden your knowledge of the volcanic systems sleeping below Iceland’s surface. 

Móði and Magni: A pair of volcanic craters found on the Fimmvörðuháls trail between Myrdalsjökull and Eyjafjallajökull glaciers. They came about during the 2010 volcanic eruption, when magma spewed and shaped the surface. These formations are named after Thor’s two sons—Móði and Magni—while the lava field surrounding them is known as Godahraun, meaning "the Nordic Gods' lava field."  

Gígjökull: A glacier tongue that stretches out from Eyjafjallajökull. During the 2010 eruption, lava flowing beneath the ice melted away at the outlet, forming a snowy canyon. Despite the massive damage, it regained some of its mass, but no one knows how long this wonder will advance onto the plain. 

Eyjafjallajökull: An ice cap in the South Coast and one of the glaciers you can see from Thorsmork. Eyjafjallajökull stratovolcano gained notoriety in 2010 when it erupted after being quiet for more than 187 years (NASA Earth Observation). The resulting event spewed ash into the air, disturbing air traffic and covering the surroundings. As the explosions subsided, what remained was an otherworldly and landscape colored in white and black shades. 

Markarfljótsgljúfur Canyon: A ravine between Tindfjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers. This geological wonder is believed to have formed 2,000 years ago from a Katla volcano eruption. Although it was born from disaster, the canyon has become a beautiful stop on the long Laugavegur trek. A small stream flows through it, contained on both sides by towering ridges, eventually connecting to Thorsmork. 

Skógafoss Waterfall: A South Coast wonder connected to Thorsmork via Fimmvörðuháls trail. The 60 m (196 ft) tall and 25 m (82 ft) wide Skógafoss cascade is supplied by the Skógá river and is located in Skógar village. The fall is one of the largest and most magnificent in Iceland, allowing people to witness the spectacle from ground level or a viewpoint above the water.  

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall: A small fall found on the way to Thorsmork if you head via route 249. What the cascade lacks in size, it more than makes up for in presentation. The water drops 60 m (196 ft) from a rocky ledge into a small pool below. If you’re tired of the Seljalandsfoss waterfall front, go into the cove behind it to get a different point of view of an already epic sight. 

Gljúfrabúi Waterfall: An overlooked water spectacle right on the way to Thorsmork, near Route 249 and Seljalandsfoss. As the rough translation of Gljúfrabúi's wonder name hints, this fall is an inhabitant of a canyon, surrounded on the sides by stone. The top is open, allowing sun rays to enter and brighten up the sight. 

Seljavallalaug Mountain Pool: A geothermal pool located on the South Coast, just below the Eyjafjallajökull glacier. Seljavallalaug pond was built to encourage Icelanders to learn how to swim. During the 2010 eruption, the site was covered with ash, and the pool was filled in. However, volunteers have since brought the site back to its former glory, and you can enjoy a dip here today!