The Laugavegur Trail in Iceland is one of the most beautiful hiking experiences any avid trailblazer will ever come across. With its wheezing hot springs, lava fields, snow-covered peaks, and clear lake waters, this trail will provide an experience of a lifetime for backpackers from all countries. Many say this is the perfect blend of the land of fire and ice.
If you’re interested in this four-day trek, here’s your guide to everything you need to know about hiking Iceland’s Laugavegur Trail.
Trail Overview
The Laugavegur Trail is in the Southern region of Iceland and is one of the most beautiful hiking trails in the world. Some call it adventurous, others say it’s beautiful, while some say it’s pretty dramatic. The mix of black obsidian lava, hot springs, and snow will make you question how these different extremes can coexist. The trail is 35 miles (55km) and ends in a dense forested area.
Question is, are you a fan of a one day hike or two-four days? There’s no question about the trail’s complexity — indeed it is quite challenging and will take more than a few days to complete. Ideally, hikers will begin from the North and traverse South, as approaching in the opposite direction will be more difficult due to elevation gains.
Hikers can start in Laugavegur and head to Thorsmork. From there, you can take a bus back to Reykjavik or continue hiking an extra day or two to Skogar. The trail is only open between late June to mid-September.
Prepare your hiking gear and boots and embark on this four-day adventure!
Permits and Regulations
Packing your bag and starting on the adventure is all you need, as no pre-booking permits are required. The trail is only accessible at certain times of the year due to weather conditions. Typically, these times fall between the months of June and September, but hikers should contact local authorities to check conditions.
Though permits are not required, reservations for campsites and lodges are. These reservations fill up quickly and hikers should know that it is forbidden to simply pitch a tent along the trail.
Trail Highlights and Points of Interest
When was the last time you smelt sulfur? Probably when you were in a school lab. The trails cross sulfur-emitting springs, the colorful volcanic hills of Fjallabak Nature Reserve, and various geothermal hot springs (which you can bathe in). The valleys are filled with flourishing vegetation, flowers, glaciers, and red and gold hills frosted with snow. The landscape is very scenic and unique; you will want to capture everything using your camera.
Safety Considerations
The Laugavegur Trail is known for having unpredictable weather. Hikers should use caution and prepare for drastic climate changes by bringing waterproof packs and clothing. Your hiking backpack should have a rain cover to protect your food and snacks. Pack all your wool socks, warm jacket, water shoes, camping equipment if you plan to camp, and a sleeping bag. You may wonder why you need one if you plan on sleeping in huts, but this is exploring Iceland hiking; you will need all the warmth you can get.
Clean drinking water is provided at the huts; therefore, carry your water bottles to refill each time before you head out. Always hike in groups for safety, as the trails are sometimes too steep and hikers may need some help.
Planning and Preparation
The terrain combines steep hills, gentle slopes, and crossing rivers, and the weather is entirely unpredictable. At one point, you might be snowed up. Next, you are applying sunscreen to prevent sunburn. Therefore, you must prepare in advance for the hikes with exercise to help you stay safe during the hike.
Packing essential equipment such as food, water, good sturdy hiking boots, and waterproof clothes is advised. Pack enough food and water before each day’s trip because you cannot buy hot, ready-made meals from the huts.
Remember the “leave no trace” principle; ensure you pack all your trash and carry it with you. The huts provide a place for waste disposal, toilets, and hot showers for a fee.
Camping and Accommodation
Throughout the trail are various huts where you can get accommodation, clean drinking water, and a hot refreshing shower. There are also campsites where you can pitch tents in the designated areas of the Nature Reserve.
Remember to reserve the huts early, as they get pretty full. The huts are, however, big and can accommodate up to 75 people. Due to the unpredictability of the weather, the huts are all heated.
Food and Water
Food for sale at the huts is limited, and they do not sell hot-cooked meals. You can, however, prepare meals at the huts and carry them for each day’s excursion. The huts provide clean drinking water. You can store your food in the huts and only carry what you require for that day. Buy all your snacks and food as you plan for the trip.
Hiking Tips and Techniques
Ideally, you won’t wake up one day and decide you are going hiking. Start preparing early with jogs, walks, and stretching to ensure your body is ready for the hike.
Environmental Awareness
The hiking trail is one of the most fragile trails in the wild. We must be careful about how we dispose of waste and preserve the trail and surrounding ecosystem to maintain scenic beauty for the next generations. Therefore, follow the pack rules such as the no trace principle, pitch tents in designated camping grounds, and do not destroy the fragile flora and fauna.
People Ask: Laugavegur Trail Hike
Q: How long is the Laugavegur Trail?
A: The trail is 35 miles (55km) and ends in a dense forested area.
Q: When is it advisable to hike the Laugavegur Trail?
A: The best time to hike the trail is from late June to early September, as it is accessible and free from snow.
Q: How is the weather?
A: The weather is very unpredictable, so you should prepare for the cold and the heat. Carry waterproof clothes and sunscreen.
Q: How many days will it take me to hike the trail?
A: Depending on your pace, hiking may take up to 5 days.
Q: Should I book accommodation in advance?
A: Yes. The huts get full early in the year, so booking them six or nine months before the hike is advisable.
Q: Is the water from the stream clean to drink?
A: The water is clean, but it is advisable to purify it before drinking. The huts provide clean drinking water; you can refill your bottles daily.
Q: How is the terrain at Laugavegur Trail?
A: Like the weather, it is very diverse, from hot springs, volcanic mountains, glaciers, rivers you must cross, and steep and moderate trails.
Q: Do I need a group to hike the Laugavegur Trail?
A: You can hike the trail alone, but hiking in groups is safer.
Q: Do they have camping sites, or do they only provide huts?
They have camping grounds for those who love camping and huts as well. You can choose whichever works for you.
Q: How safe is the Laugavegur trail?
A: The steep descents can be dangerous, so you need to go in groups. There are no dangerous animals such as bears and wolves.
The Laugavegur Trail should be on every hiker’s bucket list. With its hot springs, snow-peak mountains, and valley glaciers, you can never stop enough to capture the moments with a camera. Remember to prepare for the hike well, pack all the food you may need for four days, and book your hut in advance to reduce the last-minute rush! Explore and enjoy the trail responsibly.
