Hiking Guide to Thórsmörk
Nestled between the Mýrdalsjökull and Eyjafjallajökull ice caps, Thórsmörk ("Thor's Valley") is one of Iceland's most spectacular hiking destinations. Sheltered from Atlantic winds, the area enjoys a surprisingly mild summer microclimate, which promotes lush vegetation uncommon at this latitude. Birch forests, glacial valleys, and rushing rivers make this a hiker's paradise.
This guide will help you plan your trip by answering essential questions such as when to go, how to get there, which hikes to choose based on your experience level, and where to camp.
Getting to Thórsmörk
Although it is only 30 km from the Golden Circle, Thórsmörk remains an isolated place in the heart of the Icelandic Highlands. Access is difficult due to several powerful glacial rivers that must be crossed.
By car: A challenge reserved for experts
The F249 road is one of the most difficult in Iceland. It crosses several rivers, some of which can be deep and unpredictable. You will need a sturdy off-road vehicle, such as a Toyota Land Cruiser, at a minimum.
It is strongly advised not to take this road without solid experience in river crossings. Every year, many vehicles get trapped in the water.
- The risk is high because some rivers may become impassable depending on the weather and glacier melt.
- No insurance is available: no car rental company covers damage related to river crossings.
By bus: The safest way
The bus is the safest way to reach Thórsmörk. These specially equipped vehicles only run from mid-June to mid-September, when the hiking trails are accessible.
Main companies: Check the timetables and book your tickets with one of the following two operators:
Where to get off?
When booking, you can choose from three stops corresponding to the three campsites in Thórsmörk (see the map below):
- Langidalur (central point): The quietest and an ideal starting point for most hikes in the valley. It has a peaceful and authentic atmosphere.
- Básar: The wildest and is recommended if you are planning a hike to the Fimmvörðuháls pass (Móði and Magni craters, for example). It has a forest environment.
- Húsadalur (Volcano Huts): The most comfortable and has a bar-restaurant, sauna, and fully equipped kitchen. It's perfect for recharging your batteries after a long hike, but it has a more festive and crowded atmosphere. It is also more remote.
If you are unsure, choose Langidalur. Its central location and unspoiled environment make it an ideal starting point for exploring all the trails in Thórsmörk.
Hikes in Thórsmörk
Hikes in Thórsmörk
Notes
Unlike other Horizonrando maps, the markers indicate destinations (summits, craters, etc.) rather than the trailhead. All routes start from either Langidalur or Básar.
However, all hikes are accessible from the three campsites in Thórsmörk: Langidalur, Básar, and Húsadalur. The indicated starting locations correspond to the nearest campsite to optimize the route's duration.
You can download the routes between the campsites:
List of Hikes (From Easiest to Most Difficult)
1️⃣ Valahnúkur (1 hour)
➝ A must-see peak offering panoramic views of the entire valley. Ideal for watching the sunrise or sunset. Departure: Langidalur.
2️⃣ Hvannárgil (2 hours)
➝ A superb walk to the Hvannárgil canyon with a detour to the Réttarfell summit. Departure: Básar.
3️⃣ Tindfjöll loop (3 hours and 30 minutes)
➝ A classic route offering some of the most beautiful panoramic views of the valley. Departure: Langidalur.
4️⃣ Réttarfell (1 hour, 45 minutes)
➝ A short but technical hike leading to a summit with breathtaking views of the Hvannárgil Canyon. Departure: Básar.
5️⃣ Móði and Magni Craters (7 hours)
➝ A spectacular hike to craters formed by the 2010 eruption. Varied landscapes and a volcanic atmosphere are guaranteed! Departure: Básar.
6️⃣ Rjúpnafell (6 hours)
➝ An extension of the Tindfjöll circuit leading to one of Thórsmörk's iconic peaks. Thrills are guaranteed during the steep ascent and at the exceptional summit view! Departure: Langidalur.
7️⃣ Fimmvörðuháls Trek (10 hours)
➝ One of Iceland's most legendary hikes, connecting Þórsmörk to Skógar. It's long and technical, but unforgettable! Departure: Básar.
Table of hikes
| Name of the hike | Photo | Difficulty | Duration | Length | Elevation gain | Popularity | My rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Moderate | 3 h 30 m | 8.7 km | 380 m | Low | ★★★★★ | |
|
Hard | 7 h | 15.9 km | 1100 m | Moderate | ★★★★★ | |
|
Easy | 2 h | 4.8 km | 380 m | Low | ★★★★★ | |
|
Hard | 1 h 45 m | 3.7 km | 300 m | Low | ★★★★★ | |
|
Very hard | 6 h | 14.1 km | 920 m | Low | ★★★★★ | |
|
Very hard | 10 h | 23.6 km | 1320 m | Moderate | ★★★★★ | |
|
Easy | 1 h | 2.3 km | 200 m | Moderate | ★★★★★ |