The Best Hiking Trails in Iceland for Every Skill Level

Iceland is known for its stunning landscapes, from towering mountains to deep fjords, majestic waterfalls, and volcanic craters. The country’s unique terrain offers incredible opportunities for hiking, no matter your skill level. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just getting started, Iceland has a trail for you. Here’s a guide to the best hiking trails in Iceland for beginners, intermediate adventurers, and experts alike—along with the camping gear you'll need to make the most of your outdoor experience.

 

Why Iceland is a Hiker’s Paradise

Iceland’s diverse landscapes are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering everything from casual day hikes to multi-day treks across rugged mountains. You can experience glaciers, lava fields, hot springs, and stunning coastal cliffs all in one trip. Hiking here provides an intimate connection to the country's raw beauty, and there’s no better way to fully immerse yourself in the natural environment than by camping along the way.

For those looking to explore these trails, having the right camping gear is essential. At Iceland Camp Gear, we offer top-notch equipment rentals to ensure that you're well-prepared, no matter which trail you choose.

 

1. Beginner Trails: Easy Hikes with Big Rewards

Iceland offers a range of shorter, easier trails that are perfect for beginners or those looking for a more leisurely hike. These trails still offer breathtaking views, making them a great way to experience Iceland's beauty without the need for extensive hiking experience.

a. Reykjadalur Hot Spring Hike

• Location: Hveragerði, South Iceland
• Distance: 6.5 km (round-trip)
• Time: 2-3 hours
• Difficulty: Easy

The Reykjadalur Hot Spring Hike is ideal for beginners looking for a scenic and rewarding experience. The trail leads you through geothermal areas, with bubbling mud pots and steaming vents along the way. At the end of the hike, you'll be treated to the famous hot river where you can soak and relax.

• What You’ll Need: While this trail is relatively easy, it's important to pack the basics—good hiking boots, a waterproof jacket, and a swimsuit for the hot springs. Our lightweight tents are perfect if you plan to stay overnight in nearby campsites.

b. Glymur Waterfall Hike

• Location: Hvalfjörður, West Iceland
• Distance: 7 km (round-trip)
• Time: 3-4 hours
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Glymur is Iceland’s second-tallest waterfall, and the hike to reach it is both manageable and incredibly scenic. You’ll walk through caves, cross a river, and climb up to the viewpoint where you can see the cascading water. Though it involves a bit of climbing, the trail is accessible for most beginners with a basic level of fitness.

• What You’ll Need: Since there’s some climbing and river crossing, we recommend waterproof boots and trekking poles. A day pack to carry snacks and water is essential. Don’t forget to pack a camera—this hike offers some of the best photo ops in Iceland.

2. Intermediate Trails: A Step Up for Adventure Seekers

If you're comfortable with longer hikes and moderate elevation gain, Iceland has plenty of intermediate trails that offer a bit more of a challenge. These trails take you deeper into Iceland’s rugged terrain and reward you with jaw-dropping landscapes.

a. Fimmvörðuháls Hike

• Location: Thórsmörk to Skógar, South Iceland
• Distance: 25 km (one-way)
• Time: 10-12 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate

The Fimmvörðuháls trail is one of the most famous hikes in Iceland, taking you through a volcanic landscape between two glaciers, Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull. You'll experience a variety of terrains, from lush valleys to lava fields formed by the 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajökull. This hike is often done as a long day hike, but it can also be split over two days with a stop at one of the mountain huts.

• What You’ll Need: For this hike, proper gear is critical. You’ll want sturdy hiking boots, warm layers, and rain gear. Our multi-day camping gear, including lightweight tents and sleeping bags, is ideal if you plan to camp overnight along the route.

b. Laugavegur Trail

• Location: Landmannalaugar to Thórsmörk, South Iceland
• Distance: 55 km (one-way)
• Time: 3-4 days
• Difficulty: Moderate

Laugavegur is one of the most popular multi-day hikes in Iceland, attracting hikers from around the world. The trail takes you through colorful rhyolite mountains, black sand deserts, and verdant valleys, offering a true immersion into Iceland’s diverse landscapes. While the hike itself is not extremely difficult, the long distances and variable weather make it better suited for intermediate hikers.

• What You’ll Need: This hike requires multi-day camping gear, including a quality tent, sleeping pad, and food supplies. Weather can change rapidly in the highlands, so pack warm layers and waterproof clothing. Our rental packages include all the essentials to keep you comfortable for the full duration of the trek.

3. Advanced Trails: For Experienced Hikers Only

For seasoned adventurers looking for a challenge, Iceland offers some of the most rewarding but difficult hikes in the world. These trails often involve steep ascents, river crossings, and long distances, making them suitable only for experienced hikers who are well-prepared.

a. Hornstrandir Nature Reserve

• Location: Westfjords
• Distance: Varies (multi-day hikes)
• Time: 3-7 days
• Difficulty: Difficult

The Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, located in the remote Westfjords, is one of Iceland’s most untouched and rugged areas. There are no roads here, and access is only by boat. The hikes through this wilderness take you across cliffs, through remote valleys, and along the Arctic coast, where you can spot puffins and arctic foxes.

• What You’ll Need: Due to the remoteness of this area, you’ll need high-quality camping gear, including durable tents, sleeping bags, and cooking equipment. You’ll also need to be self-sufficient, as there are no services available. Our rental gear is designed for extreme conditions, ensuring you stay safe and comfortable in this rugged environment.

b. Askja Caldera and Víti Crater Hike

• Location: Central Highlands
• Distance: 8 km (round-trip)
• Time: 4-6 hours
• Difficulty: Difficult

Located in the heart of the Central Highlands, the hike to Askja Caldera takes you through otherworldly volcanic landscapes. The crater itself contains a warm geothermal lake, Víti, which is perfect for a dip after a strenuous hike. The trail is often snowy and can be challenging, but the reward is a surreal experience in one of Iceland’s most geologically active areas.

• What You’ll Need: Warm layers, good hiking boots, and crampons (depending on the season) are essential for this hike. A sturdy tent and warm sleeping gear are a must if you plan to camp nearby. Our high-performance camping equipment will keep you comfortable even in this remote and challenging environment.

Essential Gear for Iceland Hikes

No matter which trail you choose, being prepared with the right gear is key to having a successful and enjoyable hiking experience in Iceland. At Iceland Camp Gear, we provide top-quality rental equipment to ensure you’re ready for any trail, from beginner to expert. Our gear includes:

• Lightweight tents
• Warm sleeping bags
• Waterproof hiking boots
• Trekking poles
• Cooking equipment for multi-day hikes
• Portable stoves and fuel

Our gear is designed to withstand Iceland’s often unpredictable weather, so you can focus on enjoying your adventure without worrying about your comfort or safety.

Choosing the Right Trail for You

Iceland’s hiking trails offer something for everyone, from easy walks to challenging multi-day treks. By choosing the right trail for your skill level and being properly equipped, you’ll be able to fully enjoy the beauty and adventure that Iceland has to offer. Whether you're seeking the thrill of a tough hike or a peaceful stroll through the countryside, the right camping gear will make your journey even more enjoyable.

With Iceland Camp Gear, you can rent everything you need to make your Iceland hiking experience unforgettable. So pack your bags, lace up your boots, and get ready to explore the best trails Iceland has to offer!