Thakgil Yellow Circuit Hike
Key facts about the hike
- Difficulty
- Hard Hikes are rated from very easy to very hard: my difficulty scale
- Duration
- 6h Estimated time, short breaks included (photos, water, snacks), picnic not included: how it is calculated
- Distance
- 15.1km
- Elevation gain
- 770m
- Type of route
- Loop
- Maximum altitude
- 745 m
- Vertiginous Five levels, depending on how exposed the route is: the levels in detail
- Slightly
- Marked
- Yes
- Popularity
- Low
- Region
- South
- Start point
- 63.53027, -18.88822
- Activity
- Hiking
Hike overview
Thakgil (or Þakgil) exudes a mystical atmosphere far from classic tourist sites. Its scenery is reminiscent of that of Thórsmörk. Its landscapes are characterized by gorges and canyons with sheer walls draped in green moss that contrasts with the black volcanic rocks. This unique place is worth discovering—it was truly one of my favorites.
This circuit offers spectacular views, especially of the Mýrdalsjökull ice cap and its Kötlujökull and Huldujökull glaciers. Although I could only admire part of this impressive panorama due to low clouds, it was still breathtaking.Map and elevation profile of the hike
Thakgil Yellow Circuit Hike
Difficulties of the hike
There are four hiking trails available from the campsite, including the yellow circuit, which is one of the longest. Like all the trails in Thakgil, this one is well-maintained and marked. The main difficulties lie in the route's length and its steep slopes, which are often slippery, though none of the sections are particularly technical. To avoid returning along the wide trail, I suggest taking the purple trail on the way back, which is different from the route suggested in Thakgil.
Note that the red circuit was closed in 2023 due to dangerous passages. However, it is also renowned for its beauty and may be slightly more technical.
What you'll love
- Spectacular views of the Mýrdalsjökull ice cap and its Kötlujökull and Huldujökull glaciers, providing a magnificent panorama of these ice giants.
- The typical landscapes of Thakgil: Vertiginous gorges and canyons with rock walls covered in bright green moss.
- The mystical and unspoiled atmosphere: This little-known site offers a true escape from the tourist crowds.
Practical information
Opening period
Like the Thakgil trails, this road is only open in the summer. The exact dates depend on snow conditions.
Access
To reach Thakgil, drive on Route 214 for 16 kilometers. As it is not an F-road, Route 214 is accessible by all types of vehicles, but a 4x4 or SUV is recommended as the road is very rough and dotted with potholes.
Accommodation
I strongly recommend spending at least one night at the Thakgil campground. Nestled in the heart of a natural amphitheater, the campground is surrounded by impressive rock walls covered with green moss that look almost impassable. Don't miss the cozy cave where campers can relax and share a meal at the end of a day of hiking.
Photos
See all 16 photos →
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Printed from www.horizonrando.fr/en/iceland/thakgil-yellow-trail/