Can I hike Fimmvörðuháls as a day hike?

Yes, fit hikers regularly complete the 25 km trail in a single long day (8–12 hours). Most start from Skógafoss and finish in Þórsmörk, arranging bus transport back. Some prefer to break it up with a night at the Fimmvörðuháls hut near the pass.

Is Fimmvörðuháls connected to the Laugavegur Trail?

Yes. Fimmvörðuháls ends in Þórsmörk where the Laugavegur Trail begins (or ends). Many hikers combine both into a 4–6 day thru-hike starting at Skógafoss and finishing at Landmannalaugar, covering about 80 km of Iceland's most spectacular terrain.

Can I see the 2010 eruption site?

Yes. The trail passes directly between the two craters formed during the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption. Named Magni and Móði after Thor's sons, the craters still emit warmth. The surrounding lava field is relatively young and dramatic, with new land formed just over a decade ago.

What are the dangers on Fimmvörðuháls?

The main hazards are whiteout conditions at the high pass between the glaciers, where trail markers can become invisible in fog or snow. Snow bridges over streams can collapse in summer. The descent into Þórsmörk is steep and can be slippery when wet. Carry GPS and be prepared to turn back if visibility drops.

Fimmvörðuháls Trail: Ridge Walk Between Glaciers

Dramatic ridge walk between Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers

Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team

Difficulty

Hard

25 km · 8–12 hours · South Iceland

Fimmvörðuháls is one of Iceland's most exhilarating day hikes, ascending from the coastal lowlands near Skógafoss waterfall to the high pass between two ice caps before descending into the glacial valley of Þórsmörk. The 25 km route gains over 1,000 meters of elevation, passing more than 20 waterfalls in its early stages and crossing the fresh lava field from the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption at the summit ridge. The name means "five cairn pass," referring to the cairns that once guided travelers across the mountain.

Safety + sourcing

Last updated: 2026-02-01

Conditions at the pass can deteriorate rapidly. Whiteouts are common even in summer. Do not attempt this hike without GPS navigation capability and full waterproof gear.

Sources to check

Distance

25 km

Point-to-point from Skógafoss to Þórsmörk

Elevation gain

1,050 m

Highest point at Fimmvörðuháls pass (1,116 m)

Duration

8–12 hours

One long day or split with hut stay at the pass

What to Expect

Trail distance and elevation

25 km point-to-point from Skógafoss to Þórsmörk with 1,050m total elevation gain. Highest point at Fimmvörðuháls pass (1,116m). Difficulty rated hard. No water crossings early on, but snowfield crossings likely at the pass.

Waterfall corridor

The first 8 km from Skógafoss ascend alongside the Skógá river, passing over 20 waterfalls of varying sizes in a lush green gorge with 600m elevation gain.

Magni and Móði craters

The 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption craters sit right on the trail at the pass. Named after Thor's sons, they still radiate warmth from the cooling lava beneath.

Terrain between glaciers

The pass traverses a narrow ridge between two ice caps. Snowfields persist into July. Trail markers (yellow stakes) are critical in fog—carry GPS as a backup.

Goðaland descent

The trail drops 800m steeply from the pass into the Goðaland area through narrow canyons, green moss, and twisted rock formations. Loose scree requires careful footing.

Þórsmörk valley arrival

The hike ends in the lush, sheltered valley of Þórsmörk surrounded by three glaciers, with birch forests, wildflowers, and mountain huts for overnight stays.

Getting There

Most hikers start at Skógafoss waterfall, located directly on Route 1 approximately 150 km (2 hours) east of Reykjavík. The trailhead begins at the top of the waterfall's staircase on the eastern bank—no 4WD needed to reach Skógafoss. The trail ends in Þórsmörk, accessible only via F-249 by super jeep or scheduled highland bus (Trex, Reykjavík Excursions). Book return transport in advance as there is no mobile coverage in Þórsmörk. Alternatively, some tour operators offer guided one-way hikes with bus pickup arranged at the Þórsmörk end.

Best Time to Hike

Late June through August offers the best conditions. Late June–early July: Snow remains at the pass (above 900m), making navigation challenging; bring GPS and gaiters. July: The most popular month; snow is retreating but lingering snowfields require careful route-finding; longest daylight. August: Typically the least snow with clearest trail markers, but daylight shortens to 16-18 hours. September: Possible for experienced hikers but cold, short days, and the Fimmvörðuháls hut closes. The hut at the pass operates from late June to early September and must be booked via fi.is.

Planning help

Fimmvörðuháls FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

Back to Hiking