Laugavegur Trail
55 km
Multi-day trek from Landmannalaugar to Thorsmork
Thorsmork (Þórsmörk): Valley Between Three Glaciers
Þórsmörk
Iceland's most famous valley, named after the Norse god Thor. A green highland valley between three glaciers: Eyjafjallajökull, Mýrdalsjökull, and Tindfjallajökull.
Region
South Iceland
Best time: June – September
Thorsmork is known for its hiking, including the Laugavegur Trail, and is accessible only by 4x4 or on foot because of multiple river crossings. The valley is a protected nature reserve with birch forests, wildflowers, and glaciers on three sides.
Sources and last reviewed
Last reviewed: 2026-03-03
Multiple river crossings are dangerous, so use modified super-jeeps. Weather changes rapidly. Register travel plans at safetravel.is.
Pages are reviewed for practical usefulness, source quality, and volatile claims before publication.
Official 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, and trails now cross the new volcanic terrain
Huts
3 Mountain Huts
Básar, Langidalur, and Húsadalur are the accommodation options in the valley
Key Highlights
Laugavegur Trail
Iceland's best-known hiking trail, 55 km from Landmannalaugar
Three Glaciers
Set between Eyjafjallajökull, Mýrdalsjökull, and Tindfjallajökull
Lush Vegetation
Birch forests, wildflowers, and moss-covered ground in a glacial valley
Stakkholtsgjá Canyon
A narrow canyon with a waterfall at its end
Valahnúkur Viewpoint
Wide views of the valley and surrounding glaciers
River Crossings
Glacial river crossings that require 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 greenest vegetation
- Early September: Last chance before access closes, autumn colors in the birch
- October-May: Inaccessible by vehicle due to river conditions and snow
- June: Snowmelt can make rivers higher, so check conditions with bus operators before booking
Planning help
Thorsmork FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.