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Ljótipollur Crater Hike

By François · updated in June 202506/2025My rating

Key facts about the hike

Difficulty
Easy Hikes are rated from very easy to very hard: my difficulty scale
Duration
1h30 Estimated time, short breaks included (photos, water, snacks), picnic not included: how it is calculated
Distance
4.4km
Elevation gain
190m
Type of route
Loop
Maximum altitude
732 m
Vertiginous Five levels, depending on how exposed the route is: the levels in detail
No
Marked
Yes
Popularity
Low
Region
Highlands
Start point
64.03460, -19.01395
Activity
Hiking

Hike overview

Discover the crater and lake of Ljótipollur, true hidden gems of the Landmannalaugar region in Iceland. Often overlooked by tourists, the crater's name, which means ugly mud pool, is completely undeserved! The deep blue lake provides a striking contrast to the crater's bright red sides.

Ljótipollur is a volcanic explosion crater formed by an enormous eruption in 1477 that has gradually filled with water over the years. Although the crater's prominence is not impressive, the views throughout the hike are spectacular and unobstructed.

Map and elevation profile of the hike

Ljótipollur Crater Hike

Difficulties of the hike

This hike is very easy: the trail is clearly marked and goes all the way around the crater along its shores. With no technical difficulties or significant elevation gain, it is suitable for everyone!

What you'll love

  • The color contrast: the bright red sides of the crater create a striking contrast with the deep blue of the lake.
  • Exceptional panoramas: throughout the hike, enjoy 360° views of the extraordinary Landmannalaugar region.
  • Tranquil haven: accessible yet little-known, this unspoiled site guarantees a peaceful hike far from the crowds.

Practical information

Access

Only possible in summer via the F208 North or F225 roads. A 4WD vehicle is mandatory on Icelandic F-roads.

The F208 North road is recommended because it does not cross any rivers, and all 4WD vehicles can handle it! However, the F225 requires crossing several small rivers and requires a medium-sized or larger vehicle. See the Driving in the Highlands section for more information.

Ljótipollur crater
Ljótipollur crater
Landmannalaugar
Landmannalaugar
Ljótipollur crater (drone shot)
Ljótipollur crater (drone shot)
Ljótipollur crater (drone shot)
Ljótipollur crater (drone shot)
View to the east
View to the east
View to the east
View to the east
Ljótipollur crater
Ljótipollur crater
Ljótipollur crater
Ljótipollur crater
View to the east
View to the east
View to the east
View to the east
Unnamed lake on the crater flanks
Unnamed lake (?) on the crater flanks
Ljótipollur lake drone shot
Ljótipollur lake (drone shot)
Ljótipollur lake drone shot
Ljótipollur lake (lsecond lake, drone shot)
Frostastaðavatn lake
Frostastaðavatn lake
Ljótipollur lake
Ljótipollur lake

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Printed from www.horizonrando.fr/en/iceland/ljotipollur-lake/