Best Hiking Locations in Iceland

Iceland’s diverse terrain, with hot springs, volcanoes and glaciers, provides the ideal destination for hikers and active families. Whether experienced trekkers or adventure novices, Iceland’s otherworldly terrain boasts everything from scenic walking paths and wild landscape to challenging climbs and long-distance trails.

Laugavegur

Explore the beautiful landscape along Laugavegur’s 34 miles of scenic hiking trails. Located on Iceland’s southwestern region, this popular trek boasts hot springs, rolling green mountains and the glacial valley of Þórsmörk.

Photo: Wyseah2 | Dreamstime

Skaftafell

Located in Iceland’s Vatnajökull National Park, the Skaftafell wilderness region within the park hosts incredible glaciers, Skaftafellsjökull and Svínafellsjökull. Treks through Skaftafell lead to idyllic sights such as Kristínartindar Mountain, Svartifoss waterfall, Morsárdalur Valley, Öræfajökull Volcano and ice-capped peak Hvannadalshnúkur.

Hornstrandir

Iceland’s northern peninsula, Hornstrandir boasts snowcapped mountaintops, lush green valleys and the occasional Arctic fox sighting. Outdoor enthusiasts will find incredible views of glaciers and wildlife along the nature preserve’s trails. Step into another world and explore Hornstradir by foot, helicopter, bike or boat.

Photo: Leonid Andronov | Dreamstime

Þingvellir/Thingvellir

Thingvellir, located east of Reykjavík, is a historic site and national park. Thingvellir, once the site of Iceland’s parliament, houses ruins and stone structures dating back to the 10th century. Hikers trek through varying landscapes, such as rocky cliffs, a rift valley separated by two tectonic plates, farmsteads, waterfalls and lakes. Visitors can interact with history and geology exhibits and fish, snorkel and scuba dive in Lake Þingvallavatn.

Snæfellsjökull

Snæfell, an ancient stratovolcano covered by a glacier, resides within Snæfellsjökull National Park in western Iceland. The region, made famous by the Journey to the Center of the Earth by Jules Verne, offers unique volcano views and snow-covered peaks. Pose for some unbeatable family photos by the region’s countless glacial surfaces.

Check out guided tours of Iceland and get a better look at the breathtaking country with an expert local. Feeling adventurous? Discover the rugged beauty of Iceland while caving, ice climbing and cycling on expert-guided tours.