Distance
25 km
Point-to-point from Skógafoss to Þórsmörk
Fimmvörðuháls Trail: Ridge Walk Between Glaciers
A high ridge walk between Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers
Difficulty
Hard
25 km · 8–12 hours · South Iceland
Quick Answer
The Fimmvörðuháls trail climbs 25 km from Skógafoss to Þórsmörk between the Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull ice caps, passing the 2010 craters Magni and Móði.
Fimmvörðuháls climbs from the coastal lowlands near Skógafoss waterfall to the high pass between two ice caps, then descends into the glacial valley of Þórsmörk. The 25 km route gains over 1,000 meters of elevation, passes more than 20 waterfalls in its early stages, and crosses 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.
Sources and page update
Updated: 2026-09-10
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.
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Official sources to check
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 is 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 2026: SafeTravel advises against hiking while dangerous conditions persist; do not use a general seasonal guide to override the current alert. 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.
Can I hike Fimmvörðuháls as a day hike?
For September 2026, SafeTravel advises people not to hike Fimmvörðuháls while dangerous trail conditions persist. Check the current official alert before planning a crossing. Fitness or a long-day schedule does not override that advisory.
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, about 80 km in total.
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 young, 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.
Country reference: Iceland statistics.