Laugavegur Trail
55 km
Multi-day trek from Landmannalaugar to Thorsmork
Thorsmork (Þórsmörk): Iceland's Most Famous Valley
Þórsmörk
Updated February 5, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Iceland's most famous valley, named after the Norse god Thor. A lush highland oasis nestled between three glaciers — Eyjafjallajökull, Mýrdalsjökull, and Tindfjallajökull.
Region
South Iceland
Best time: June – September
Known for exceptional hiking, including the famous Laugavegur Trail, Thorsmork is accessible only by 4x4 or hiking due to multiple river crossings. The valley is a protected nature reserve with lush birch forests, wildflowers, and dramatic glacial scenery that creates one of Iceland's most stunning landscapes.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-05
Multiple river crossings are dangerous—use modified super-jeeps. Weather changes rapidly. Register travel plans at safetravel.is.
Sources to check
Surrounding Glaciers
3 glaciers
Eyjafjallajökull, Mýrdalsjökull, Tindfjallajökull
Best Season
Jun–Sep
Accessible only during summer months
Access
4x4 only
River crossings require super-jeeps
Volcano
Eyjafjallajökull
The 2010 eruption reshaped the landscape — volcanic trails now offer unique hiking
Huts
3 Mountain Huts
Básar, Langidalur, and Húsadalur provide accommodation in this roadless wilderness
Key Highlights
Laugavegur Trail
One of the world's top hiking trails, 55 km through diverse landscapes
Three Glaciers
Nestled between Eyjafjallajökull, Mýrdalsjökull, and Tindfjallajökull
Lush Vegetation
Birch forests, wildflowers, and moss-covered landscapes in a glacial valley
Stakkholtsgjá Canyon
A dramatic narrow canyon with a hidden waterfall at its end
Valahnúkur Viewpoint
Panoramic views of the valley and surrounding glaciers
River Crossings
Iconic glacial river crossings requiring modified super-jeeps
How to Get There
- River crossing required — take a modified super-jeep bus from Hella, Hvolsvöllur, or Seljalandsfoss
- Reykjavik Excursions and Trex operate daily summer buses crossing the Krossá river
- Do NOT attempt river crossings in a standard rental car — glacial rivers are dangerous
- Approximately 150 km from Reykjavik; super-jeep transfer takes about 3 hours total
- Alternatively, hike in from Skógar via the Fimmvörðuháls trail (25 km, full day)
Best Time to Visit
- Late June to August: Only accessible period, all trails open, midnight sun, 8-15°C
- July: Peak season with the most reliable weather and lushest vegetation
- Early September: Last chance before access closes, stunning autumn colors in the birch
- October-May: Inaccessible by vehicle due to river conditions and snow
- June: Snowmelt can make rivers higher — check conditions with bus operators before booking
Planning help
Thorsmork FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.