Laugavegur Trail
Laugavegur Trail: Iceland’s Classic Highlands Trek
The Laugavegur Trail is Iceland’s best-known multi-day hike: a 55 km, 4-day, point-to-point trek through the Fjallabak Nature Reserve in the Southern Highlands. It runs from Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk, crossing rhyolite mountains, obsidian fields, black-sand deserts and glacial rivers. The route is rated moderate and suits hikers comfortable with exposed mountain weather, rocky and snowy ground, and unbridged river crossings. For more Iceland route planning, see our Iceland hiking guide.
Route Overview
Most hikers walk north to south, starting at Landmannalaugar and finishing in Þórsmörk. The route links the hut and campsite locations at Landmannalaugar, Hrafntinnusker, Álftavatn or Hvanngil, Botnar/Emstrur and Þórsmörk. It is a point-to-point hut-to-hut trail, not a loop, so transport planning matters: the practical summer window is late June to early September, when huts are staffed and mountain buses are running. The Laugavegur is often extended south over the Fimmvörðuháls Trail to Skógar; for wilder Icelandic options, compare it with the Hornstrandir Trek or the Askja Trail.
Notable highlights
- Landmannalaugar: The trail begins among rhyolite mountains and geothermal steam in the Fjallabak Nature Reserve. It is one of the most distinctive starts to any hut-to-hut walk in Iceland.
- Hrafntinnusker: This high section is known for obsidian fields and is the route’s highest area at about 1,050 m. Snow and exposure can make it feel more serious than the distance suggests.
- Álftavatn: A lake-side stop on the classic hut sequence. It gives a clear change of scene after the higher, rockier ground near Hrafntinnusker.
- Black-sand deserts and glacier views: The middle and southern sections cross stark volcanic terrain with views towards ice and highland landscapes. Expect open, weather-exposed walking rather than sheltered trail.
- Þórsmörk: The route finishes in a green valley that feels sharply different from the black sand and snow patches earlier on the trail. It is also the usual link point for continuing over Fimmvörðuháls to Skógar.
Challenges to expect
The Laugavegur is well-marked, but not risk-free. Expect exposed Highland weather, rocky and gravel surfaces, possible snow, and unbridged glacial river crossings. Conditions can change quickly, especially near Hrafntinnusker, and the open terrain offers little shelter. Huts must be booked well ahead; campsites are the alternative where permitted at the hut locations.
Iceland - Mountainous
- Arctic
- Rocky
- Gravel
- Snow
- Huts
- Campsites
- Family Friendly
- Restrooms
- Water Sources
- Campsites
- Shelters
Begin the trek at Landmannalaugar, renowned for its vibrant rhyolite mountains and geothermal spots. The route starts with an ascent through lava fields and colorful hills, gradually climbing to the highland plateau. Along the way, hikers pass steaming vents and snow patches as the landscape becomes more barren and exposed. This section ends at Hrafntinnusker hut, located in a dramatic, often windswept setting with expansive views of the surrounding wilderness.
Departing from Hrafntinnusker, the trail continues across exposed highlands with lingering snowfields even in summer. Descend gradually into greener valleys, passing by small canyons, steam vents, and the beautiful Jökultungur area. The route involves some steep descents and river crossings but rewards with views of vast mossy plains. Arrival at Álftavatn provides an idyllic lakeside setting for overnight, surrounded by mountain vistas.
Leaving Álftavatn, the trail follows open plains and crosses several streams, some requiring careful fording. The terrain transforms with black sand deserts and volcanic outcrops appearing as you approach the Emstrur area. Pass the distinct Hvanngil hut and continue over undulating landscape, eventually reaching Botnar hut at Emstrur. This area offers impressive views of nearby glaciers and deep river canyons.
On the final day, the trail descends from the Emstrur plateau toward the green, sheltered valley of Þórsmörk. This section involves navigating a few river crossings, traversing rolling hills, and passing dramatic canyons, such as the Markarfljótsgljúfur. As you approach Þórsmörk, the harsh highlands give way to a lush birch forest with breathtaking vistas of surrounding glaciers and rugged peaks, marking the rewarding end of the journey.