Fimmvörðuháls

Fimmvörðuháls Hiking Trail

For those who love hiking Fimmvörðuháls is truly something unique and unforgettable. This trail is between two glaciers and a volcano. The trail is about 25 km long. It lies between Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull in Southern Iceland.

The most popular starting point for tours to Fimmvörðuháls is at the Skógafoss waterfall. The trail ends in Þórsmörk which is a spectacular green valley, oasis, resting between high mountains.

The trail is only open during the summertime due to weather. Many people finish this trip in one day but other take it slower and hike for 2 or more days and enjoy the landscape even better.

Waterfalls, craters and lava put their mark on the landscape. Some parts of the hike are more like being from some other planet than Earth. Rocks and lava, steep hills and pure water, that you can drink, give this trail a unique look. Some would even say the surroundings are more like a scene from a fairy tale than the real world.

But be prepared for all kinds of weather when hiking this trail. Good and comfortable shoes and outdoor clothing that can keep you warm and dry is a must. Like everywhere in Iceland weather can change very fast. The day may begin with sunshine but at noon there can be fog and rain or even blizzard. Strong winds can also be expected. Enough food and water are a must and band aid, sunglasses and sunscreen are advised.

This trail offers beautiful views over the south coast and of course Þórsmörk. On the way you will have ice caps on both sides, Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull. The lava field from the eruption in Eyjafjallajökull in 2010 will also be on your way. The trail is from 50 meters up to more than 1000 meters above sea level.

By hiking this trail, you will experience something totally different from what you will experience in the tours offered by Arcanum. In stead of ice, ice caves, ash in the ice, black sands and view to the ocean you will enjoy moss with green and orange colors, waterfalls, rivers and great view to both Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull. But you will have to travel in snow and lava on the trail before you reach Þórsmörk.

On the way you will go past 26 waterfalls. You will stand on the top of the youngest mountain in the world. Pass between two active volcanoes (Eyjafjallajökull and Katla which lies underneath Mýrdalsjökull). On your way you will also go past Móði and Magni, two brand new craters and mountains that were formed in a small eruption in 2010. The names are taken from Nordic mythology as these are the names of two sons of Þór the thunder god.

You can start the hike in the morning at the ocean, walk past the 26 waterfalls, walk over grassy tundra, across a volcanic plateau while enjoying the breath-taking view. So truly a great variety and unique experience.