Best for
Epic multi-day hiking
Laugavegur + Fimmvörðuháls: two of the world's great treks.
Thorsmork (Þórsmörk) Iceland: Complete Visitor Guide
A highland nature reserve nestled between three glaciers, renowned as one of Iceland's premier hiking destinations and the endpoint of the legendary Laugavegur trail.
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Region
Highlands
4x4 or super jeep required. Summer access only.
Named after the Norse god Thor, Þórsmörk is a sheltered valley surrounded by the glaciers Eyjafjallajökull, Mýrdalsjökull, and Tindfjallajökull. The valley's protected position creates a surprisingly mild microclimate, supporting one of Iceland's largest birch forests. It is the meeting point of two world-famous hiking trails—the Laugavegur from Landmannalaugar and the Fimmvörðuháls from Skógafoss.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. River crossings to Þórsmörk can be dangerous—water levels change rapidly with weather and glacial melt. Never attempt crossings in a regular car.
Sources to check
Access
4x4 / bus only
River crossings required. Summer bus service available.
Pro tip
Book huts early
Mountain huts fill months ahead for peak season (July–August).
What to Expect at Þórsmörk
- Lush birch forests in a sheltered glacial valley
- Multiple day-hike options with glacier and mountain views
- River crossings that require specialized vehicles
- Valahnúkur viewpoint with 360° panoramas of glaciers and mountains
- Mountain huts and campsites at Básar and Húsadalur for overnight stays
- Stakkholtsgjá canyon—a hidden side hike through a narrow gorge to a secluded waterfall inside the valley
Nearby Attractions
- Skógafoss waterfall (Fimmvörðuháls trail start)
- Seljalandsfoss waterfall (nearby on Route 1)
- Eyjafjallajökull glacier and 2010 eruption site
- Landmannalaugar colorful rhyolite highlands (via Laugavegur trail)
- Stakkholtsgjá canyon hike through a narrow gorge to a hidden waterfall
How to Get to Þórsmörk
- About 3 hours from Reykjavik (including river crossings)
- Modified 4x4 super jeep required for river crossings
- Scheduled bus services run from Reykjavik in summer (June–September)
- Do not attempt in a regular car—rivers can be waist-deep
Best Time to Visit Þórsmörk
- Late June–September: Main hiking season with accessible rivers
- July–August: Warmest, longest days, all trails open
- September: Autumn colors in birch forests, fewer crowds
- October–May: Generally inaccessible due to snow and high rivers
Planning help
Þórsmörk FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.