Iceland offers plenty of hikes of any length. Curious hikers who venture just 15 minutes from the highway are often generously rewarded with emerald-green hills, mountain streams, dramatic cliffs and–best yet–no noisy crowds or gargantuan tour buses. Here’s a list of the best short hikes ranging from 1-8 miles, ideal for stops along road trips, and to leave the tour bus crowds behind even if you have limited time.
## #1 Mt. Esja: A Hiking Adventure Just Outside Reykjavik
Embark on a memorable hiking experience at Mt. Esja, a captivating mountain located just a short distance north of Reykjavik. This accessible hike offers a fantastic escape into Iceland’s stunning countryside. Begin your journey by taking bus #5 from Hlemmur station, a central transportation hub in Reykjavik, to Ártun. From Ártun, transfer to bus #57, which will transport you directly to the Esja Hiking Center, the starting point for your adventure.
Mt. Esja boasts a network of hiking trails catering to a variety of skill levels and preferences. For those seeking a relatively straightforward and rewarding hike, the route leading to Steinn, aptly named “the rock,” is an excellent choice. While the trail presents a moderate level of steepness, the breathtaking panoramic views over the bay that unfold as you ascend make every step worthwhile.
The hike commences from the parking lot, where you can select a trail marked by color-coded poles, indicating the difficulty and length of the route. As you progress, you’ll traverse through a diverse landscape, encountering lush vegetation at lower elevations and navigating across barren, scree-filled slopes as you approach the summit. Steinn, your final destination, stands proudly at an elevation of 605 meters (1,985 feet). The entire hike, a round trip of just over 3.7 miles (6 km), provides a satisfying and invigorating experience. Take your time to soak in the views and appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds you on Mt. Esja.
## #2 Glymur Trail: Discover Iceland’s Tallest Waterfall
Prepare for an unforgettable journey to Glymur, Iceland’s tallest and most majestic waterfall. The Glymur Trail presents a scenic and moderately challenging hike that rewards adventurers with unparalleled views and a sense of accomplishment. As you traverse the trail, you’ll be captivated by the dramatic landscapes that unfold before you.
The path meanders past stark canyons, revealing the raw power of nature. You’ll encounter intriguing caves, inviting you to explore their depths, and pass over mossy green hills, adding a touch of serenity to the rugged terrain. One of the most memorable aspects of the hike is the crossing of a shallow but vigorous river. This refreshing experience adds an element of adventure to the journey.
After approximately 3.08 miles (4.96 km) of hiking through this varied terrain, you’ll finally reach the awe-inspiring Glymur falls. The cascading white waters create a mesmerizing spectacle that will leave you breathless. While the hike is not exceptionally strenuous, it is highly recommended to wear sturdy hiking boots to provide adequate support and protection, especially when navigating the river and the steep gorge.
Once you’ve reached the waterfall, you have the option to turn back and retrace your steps or continue your adventure by hiking further up towards the Botnsa river and the imposing Hvalfell mountain. This extended hike offers even more opportunities to immerse yourself in the breathtaking Icelandic landscape. The Glymur Trail is an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve completed the hike.
## #3 Landmannalaugar Loop: A Kaleidoscope of Colors and Landscapes
Prepare to be captivated by the unparalleled beauty of Landmannalaugar, a truly picturesque landscape that embodies the essence of Iceland’s natural wonders. With its rugged mountains and vibrantly colored rhyolite peaks, Landmannalaugar offers a visual feast that will leave you in awe. The Landmannalaugar Loop is a popular hiking trail that allows you to experience the very best of this extraordinary region.
This loop, approximately 3.4 miles (5.47 km) in length, takes you on a journey through a diverse and mesmerizing landscape. You’ll traverse barren valleys, characterized by their stark beauty and sense of isolation. The trail then leads you to the base of Mt. Brennisteinsalda, a mountain renowned for its slopes painted in a multitude of colors by the presence of falling sulfur. This natural phenomenon creates a truly unique and unforgettable sight.
As you continue along the trail, it gracefully curls back into the Laugahraun lava field, a testament to Iceland’s volcanic origins. From this vantage point, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the towering Mt. Bláhnjúkur, also known as the Blue Peak. The Landmannalaugar Loop is an immersive experience that allows you to connect with the raw beauty and geological wonders of Iceland.
## #4 Thorsmork Panorama: Immersive Wilderness and Breathtaking Views
Thorsmork, a rich and diverse wilderness area, offers a plethora of hiking options catering to all preferences, from short and leisurely strolls to more challenging and extended treks. To fully immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of Thorsmork, consider basing yourself at one of the Volcano Huts and spending a few days exploring the area at your own pace.
One of the most popular and accessible hikes is Valahnukur, a short loop that typically takes between 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. This trail meanders through enchanting birch woods, offering a serene and peaceful atmosphere. As you ascend, you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountain peaks. The highlight of the Valahnukur hike is the incredible 360° views of the valley, which will leave you in awe of the natural beauty that surrounds you.
To avoid the summer crowds, it is highly recommended to start your hike early in the morning. The tranquility and solitude of the early hours will enhance your experience and allow you to fully appreciate the natural wonders of Thorsmork. Due to the popularity of the Volcano Huts, it is essential to book your lodging well in advance, as they tend to sell out months in advance. For a truly unforgettable experience, consider visiting Thorsmork during the cusp season, in early June or September, when the landscapes are particularly captivating.
## #5 Hverfjall Crater Rim Trail: Walking on the Moon in Myvatn
The volcano-rich area of Myvatn is a geological wonderland, offering a variety of hiking routes that will take you past fascinating features such as steaming lava vents, dramatic craters, and bizarre lava sculptures. The stark and blackened panoramas create an otherworldly atmosphere, making you feel as if you are walking on the surface of the moon.
The Hverfjall Crater rim trail provides an immersive experience of this unique landscape. Starting from Reykjahlíð, the trail extends for 8.6 miles (14 km), leading you past notable landmarks such as the hot Grjótagjá Fissure, a narrow gorge filled with geothermal water, and onto the imposing Mt. Hverfjall, a tephra cone volcano. The trail then descends to the Dimmuborgir lava formations, a labyrinthine landscape of bizarre rock formations sculpted by ancient lava flows. The Hverfjall Crater rim trail is an unforgettable journey through a landscape shaped by volcanic forces.
## #6 Víknaslóðir Routes Borgarfjörður Eystri: Hiking in the Untamed East Fjords
Iceland’s often-overlooked East Fjords region is a hidden gem, boasting some of the country’s most dramatic and unspoiled terrain. Here, majestic mountains slope down into the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean, creating a breathtaking coastal landscape. This region is also a haven for bird-watching enthusiasts, offering numerous pleasant hiking trails that wind through diverse habitats.
One of the best-marked and most rewarding hiking areas in the East Fjords is Víknaslóðir, offering a network of 20-30 routes that cater to a range of difficulty levels. Embark on a hike in Víknaslóðir and prepare to be mesmerized by the panoramic views of the colorful towns and bays that dot the coastline. You’ll also catch glimpses of traditional farmsteads that pepper the landscape, adding a touch of charm and authenticity to your hiking experience. The Víknaslóðir Routes in Borgarfjörður Eystri provide an unforgettable opportunity to explore the untamed beauty of the East Fjords.
## #7 Seven Summits: Challenge Yourself in Seyðisfjörður
Seyðisfjörður, nestled in the heart of the East Fjords, is a charming town surrounded by seven majestic peaks, each reaching an elevation of over 1,000 meters (3,280 feet). This unique geographical setting has given rise to a challenging and rewarding hiking adventure known as the “Seven Summits” challenge.
Embark on this ambitious undertaking and attempt to scale all seven peaks surrounding the fjord. If you succeed in conquering all the summits, you’ll earn the prestigious title of “Seyðisfjörður Fjord Mountaineer,” a testament to your hiking prowess and determination. To add an element of fun and accountability to the challenge, pick up a logbook at the harbor. As you reach the top of each summit, be sure to get your logbook stamped as proof of your accomplishment. The Seven Summits challenge in Seyðisfjörður is an unforgettable adventure that will test your limits and reward you with breathtaking views of the East Fjords.
## #8 Hengifoss Hike: A Waterfall Lover’s Paradise
For hikers with a passion for waterfalls, the Hengifoss Hike is an absolute must-do. This trail leads you to not just one, but two spectacular waterfalls, offering a visual feast for the senses. Begin your journey by driving through the stunning highlands to Hengifoss, an imposing and powerful waterfall that ranks as the third highest in Iceland.
Near Hengifoss, you’ll find a flight of stairs that marks the beginning of the 1.55-mile (2.5-km) hiking trail. As you navigate your way along the long, winding gravel path, be sure to watch your step, as the terrain can be slippery in places. Approximately halfway up the trail, you’ll encounter Litlanesfoss, a smaller but equally captivating waterfall that rushes violently past towering basalt columns. Along the way, you’ll also pass by numerous small creeks and gorges, adding to the scenic beauty of the hike. The Hengifoss Hike is an unforgettable experience that immerses you in the natural wonders of Iceland’s waterfall landscape.
## #9 Skaftafell Park Hikes: Views of Vatnajökull Glacier
Skaftafell is a renowned hiking destination that attracts visitors with its accessibility, stunning views, and family-friendly trails. The park offers a variety of hiking options, catering to different time constraints and fitness levels.
For those with limited time, a popular choice is the inclined hike up to Svartifoss waterfall and the Sjónarsker viewpoint. This relatively short hike, approximately 0.93 miles (1.5 km) from the trailhead, rewards you with breathtaking views of the cascading Svartifoss waterfall and panoramic vistas from the Sjónarsker viewpoint.
For those seeking a longer and more immersive experience, consider hiking around the peak of Kristínartindar. This trail meanders past rocky terrain and through areas of rich vegetation, offering a diverse and captivating landscape. The estimated length of this hike is 3.4 miles (5.5 km), providing a satisfying and challenging adventure. From various points along the Skaftafell Park Hikes, you’ll be treated to excellent views of Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier, adding to the grandeur of the experience.
## #10 Skogafoss Waterfall Hike: A Taste of Fimmvörðuháls
Fimmvörðuháls is a challenging multi-day hike that traverses a volcanic mountain range. However, if you’re looking for a shorter and less demanding adventure, you can enjoy a taste of Fimmvörðuháls by embarking on the Skogafoss Waterfall Hike. This hike allows you to experience the beauty and grandeur of the Fimmvörðuháls trail without committing to the full multi-day trek.
The hike begins at the top of the popular Skogafoss waterfall. After an initial steep climb upward, you’ll find yourself on a spectacular trail that follows a series of cascading waterfalls. Hike for a few hours, immersing yourself in the stunning scenery, before turning back and retracing your steps. The Skogafoss Waterfall Hike offers a rewarding and accessible way to experience the beauty of the Fimmvörðuháls region, even if you’re short on time or prefer a less strenuous adventure.
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