Iceland
About
Iceland has become one of the most popular adventure travel destinations in the world and for good reason. Don't let the crowds stop you from going; it's a big country with endless places to explore.
Top Spots
Explore Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
Fjaðrárgljúfur, Iceland
4.8
1.2 mi
This canyon is one of those places in Iceland that you don't find in any of the brochures, and don't see many photos of, but that's one of the reasons it's all that much more magical when you get there. There is a little grassy walking trail along the side of the canyon, with dramatic views to the floor that would make even the most experienced climbers dizzy. The canyon is 100m tall and 2km ...
Hike Iceland's Tallest Waterfall: Glymur
Glymur Trailhead, Iceland
5.0
This amazing waterfall empties into a giant, beautiful canyon and with such a short hike, the reward is well worth the time. There are several caves to walk through and smaller waterfalls along the hike, which are all equally awesome to shoot. This is a great spot to hit up on your drive around the Western Peninsula or on your way back. It's also near the Golden Circle, a popular driving loop t...
Hike to and Swim at Seljavallalaug
Seljavallalaug, Iceland
4.3
1.9 mi
You will reach the trailhead by turning off of the Ring Road 1 onto road 242. You will see signs marked for Seljavellir. You will drive straight on this unpaved road until you reach a parking lot for an abandoned pool (little shack in photo above). From here it is only a 15-20 min walk along the rocky mountain valley. The hike will feature beautiful mountains, Icelandic sheep, and a small r...
Hike to the Falls above Skógafoss
Skógafoss, Iceland, Iceland
4.9
3.7 mi
/ 778 ft gain
You can see Skogafoss from the highway. You will also immediately see the tourist buses and the throngs of people working hard to make the same photo. Yes the waterfall is truly amazing (put on your rain gear and get as close as possible to feel its power), but there is so much this river has to offer. Go up the stairs to the right side of the falls to the upper viewing platform. This is where...
Svartifoss
Svartifoss Trail, Iceland
4.9
2.73 mi
/ 505 ft gain
At 20 meters tall, Svartifoss, also known as Black Falls, is one of the most popular waterfalls located in Iceland’s Skaftafell National Park. This waterfall’s claim to fame is definitely the beautiful hexagonal basalt columns that surround the falls making for an otherworldly oasis in the middle of Skaftafell National Park. The unique hexagonal columns come from basaltic lava hardening over ti...
Hike to Reykjadalur Hot Springs
Reykjadalur, Iceland
4.4
2.4 mi
/ 682.4 ft gain
The trailhead to start your journey to the Reykjadalur hot river is located at the Hot River cafe near the town of Hveragerði. A large parking lot is available, and the option to grab a coffee or snack at the cafe before heading out. The trail is wide and very easy to follow with a steady incline the entire way, the trip is a short 3.88 km and only takes an hour to an hour and a half one way....
Explore Jokulsarlon, Iceland
Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Iceland
4.8
From Reykjavik, just head south on Hwy 1 for about 3 hours until you reach Jokulsarlon. It's just off both sides of the road and a bridge drives over it - you wont miss it. If facing east, the lake is on the left side of the road and the beach is on the right. Both are awesome spots to shoot some photos. This is by far one of the most amazing places I have ever seen and is a must see if you are...
Explore Gullfoss
Biskupstungnabraut, Iceland
4.3
The infamous Gullfoss Falls are about 45 minutes from Strokkur, and they have a peaceful calm about them.With the temperature never really going much above freezing during the winter you get these beautiful ice sculptures with water flowing through them.Most definitely a worthwhile spot on any Icelandic adventure.
Hike through Þingvellir National Park
Þingvellir Visitor Center, Iceland
4.1
2 mi
/ 50 ft gain
From the visitor center there are several trails that lead into the countryside. Take the obvious trail down the ramp and into the gap where you can explore the beautiful terrain, waterfalls and historic sites. You could easily spend an entire day hiking around and having fun. Don’t forget to extend your arms side to side in the gap to touch both North America and Europe at the same time!
Guides and stories
Quick links
- The best hiking trails in Iceland
- The best backpacking in Iceland
- The best camping in Iceland
- Top adventures in Iceland