Lake Myvatn, in the northeast of Iceland, is packed with volcanic and geothermal wonders. Here are a few short hikes to explore pseudocraters, lava formations, craters, mud pools, and nature baths.
Lake Myvatn, a jewel of Iceland’s northern landscape, is conveniently located just a one-hour drive from Akureyri. This proximity opens up a fantastic opportunity for travelers seeking to explore the region’s unique geothermal wonders. Consider taking a low-cost domestic flight from Reykjavik to Akureyri, establishing a base from which to explore the many natural attractions. In doing so you will be able to spend several days immersed in the beauty of Lake Myvatn and its surroundings, experiencing some of Iceland’s most remarkable landscapes without the overwhelming crowds often found in the south and along the famed Golden Circle. This northern location presents a quieter, more intimate connection with Iceland’s raw beauty.
**Skutustadir Pseudocraters: A Walk Among Volcanic Deception**
These intriguing formations, known as *pseudocraters*, offer a captivating glimpse into the area’s volcanic past. The Skutustadir Pseudocraters were not formed by typical volcanic eruptions. Instead, their creation stems from a fascinating interaction between hot lava and the region’s marshy wetlands. When molten lava flowed across the saturated ground, the resulting steam explosions sculpted these unique landforms.
Embark on an easy and rewarding one-hour walk amongst these many pseudocraters nestled along the shores of Lake Myvatn. As you stroll, consider looping around the serene smaller lake, Stakhólstjörn. The path offers a variety of perspectives. Feel free to hike up the sides of a few pseudocraters for a closer look or simply wander around their bases, absorbing the unique atmosphere.
Take a moment to fully appreciate the views across Lake Myvatn, where plumes of steam rise gracefully from the active geothermal areas. In the distance, keep an eye out for the silhouettes of other volcanic craters dotting the horizon. The interplay of water, steam, and volcanic rock creates a truly memorable panorama. The Skutustadir Pseudocraters offer a captivating introduction to the geological wonders awaiting exploration around Lake Myvatn.
**Dimmuborgir Lava Formations and “The Church”: A Journey Through a Volcanic Citadel**
Prepare to be amazed by the Dimmuborgir Lava formations, a landscape sculpted by ancient volcanic activity. These strange and contorted lava formations stand as silent witnesses to the powerful forces that shaped this region. As lava flows cooled over time, they solidified into the bizarre shapes and structures that define Dimmuborgir.
A leisurely one-hour walk will allow you to fully appreciate the scale and intricacy of these formations. If time is limited, a quick five-minute stroll will provide a glimpse into this unique landscape. For a slightly longer experience, a small loop can be completed in about 15 minutes.
However, to truly immerse yourself in the wonders of Dimmuborgir, dedicate your time to the bigger loop, a two-mile journey that unveils the area’s most iconic features. Along this route, you’ll encounter Kirkja (“The Church”), a remarkable natural lava formation that strikingly resembles the vaulted archway of a church. Just a short distance away, a nearby cave beckons further exploration.
Dimmuborgir provides a remarkable opportunity to wander through a volcanic citadel, where imagination runs wild and the power of nature is on full display.
**Hverfjall Cinder Cone and Crater Walk: Ascend to Panoramic Heights**
The imposing Hverfjall Cinder Cone dominates the landscape around Lake Myvatn, making it difficult to overlook from any vantage point. A challenging but rewarding climb up its steep slopes leads to breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area. From the summit, the Skutustadir Pseudocraters appear as miniature landscapes below, and the steam rising from the Myvatn Nature Baths and Hverarond Geothermal area serves as a reminder of the region’s geothermal activity.
Walking around the top of the crater, a journey that takes approximately 40-60 minutes, reveals even more vantage points offering diverse perspectives of the lava fields stretching out below.
For those seeking a more extended hike, the trail from Dimmuborgir provides an alternative route to Hverfjall (a 10-15 minute walk). Alternatively, continue your hike towards the Myvatn Nature Baths (2.3 km / 1.5 mi), rewarding yourself with a soak in the geothermal waters after your trek. Hverfjall offers not only stunning views but also a sense of accomplishment, making it a must-see destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
**Grjotagja Lava Cave and Geothermal Spring: An Underground Oasis**
Venture into the small lava cave of Grjotagja and discover a hidden treasure: a natural geothermal spring nestled within. This is one of the more unique attractions in the region. Be sure to bring a light to navigate the cave’s interior and reveal the mesmerizing hot pool awaiting you.
Exercise caution when testing the water, as temperatures can fluctuate and sometimes reach scalding levels! The unique setting of Grjotagja, where warm geothermal waters meet the cool darkness of a lava cave, creates an unforgettable experience.
**Hverarond Mud Pits and Steam Vents: A Geothermal Spectacle**
As you journey east from Lake Myvatn along the ring road, your first detour should be to the Hverarond geothermal area. This otherworldly landscape is characterized by bubbling mud pits and steaming vents, a testament to the powerful geothermal forces at play beneath the surface.
Admire the vivid red and orange hues that paint the landscape, a result of the mineral-rich earth reacting with the geothermal activity. Exploring the entire area typically takes between 30 minutes to an hour, allowing ample time to observe the various geothermal features and capture the essence of this unique environment. Hverarond provides a fascinating glimpse into the raw power and beauty of Iceland’s geothermal wonders.
**Krafla/Viti Crater Hike: Gazing into a Volcanic Eye**
After passing the Krafla power station, which is worth a visit in its own right, you will arrive at the Viti crater. Viti is an integral part of the expansive Krafla volcanic system. This stunning crater is filled with a bright blue lake, creating a striking contrast against the surrounding volcanic landscape.
Embark on a walk around the crater’s ridge, which takes approximately 30 minutes. Along the way, you’ll encounter other hot springs and steam vents, further showcasing the area’s geothermal activity. The hike around Viti crater provides a unique opportunity to peer into the heart of a volcano and witness the ongoing power of the earth.
**Leirhnjúkur Lava Fields and Geothermal Area: A Journey to Another World**
Wander through the Leirhnjúkur area, and you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped onto another planet. A mere ten-minute walk will bring you to your first encounter with steaming vents, marking the beginning of your exploration through this surreal landscape.
Follow the designated path through the lava fields, observing the solidified flows where lava once oozed and cooled. It is crucial to remain on the marked trail, as steam vents are scattered throughout the area, and the ground can be dangerously hot in certain locations.
To experience all the highlights of Leirhnjúkur, embark on the larger loop, which takes approximately one hour to complete. This hike will immerse you in the otherworldly beauty of the lava fields, providing a unique perspective on Iceland’s volcanic landscape.
**Myvatn Nature Baths: Relax and Rejuvenate in Geothermal Waters**
After days filled with hiking and exploration, you deserve a moment of relaxation. Indulge in the Myvatn Nature Baths, often referred to as the North’s answer to the Blue Lagoon. While offering a similar geothermal experience, the Myvatn Nature Baths boast fewer crowds, more affordable prices, and arguably even better views.
While you may not find all the spa extras available at the Blue Lagoon, the Myvatn Nature Baths provide a couple of large geothermal pools, a sauna, and a steam room. Soak in the warm mineral waters while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding lava fields and the craters around Lake Myvatn. The Myvatn Nature Baths offer a perfect opportunity to unwind and reflect on your adventures in this remarkable region.
**Further Afield: Dettifoss and Selfoss Waterfalls**
A 40-minute drive from the Nature Baths will lead you to Dettifoss waterfall, renowned as the most powerful waterfall in Europe. A short five-minute hike to the viewpoint will leave you awestruck by the sheer volume of water cascading over the edge.
For those seeking further exploration, embark on another short hike (approximately 10 minutes) upstream to Selfoss falls. The trail follows the cliff above the river, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The entire loop, spanning 2.5 km / 1.5 mi, typically takes about an hour to complete. A visit to Dettifoss and Selfoss waterfalls provides a thrilling finale to your exploration of the Lake Myvatn region, showcasing the raw power and beauty of Iceland’s natural wonders.
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