Fimmvörðuháls Pass | Vik

The Fimmvörðuháls Pass is one of the most famous and scenic hiking routes in Iceland, located between the Mýrdalsjökull and Eyjafjallajökull glaciers in the southern part of the island. This challenging and breathtaking trail offers some of the best views in Iceland, taking hikers through diverse landscapes, volcanic craters, waterfalls, and glaciers. It is particularly popular for those looking for an immersive experience of Iceland's dramatic nature.

Geological and Geographic Features

Location and Terrain: The Fimmvörðuháls Pass is situated between two glaciers: Mýrdalsjökull to the west and Eyjafjallajökull to the east. The pass itself is at an elevation of 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) and provides a traverse through a varied landscape that includes volcanic terrain, lush valleys, lava fields, and glacial rivers. The route also takes hikers past mountain ridges, volcanic craters, and glacial tongues.

Volcanic Activity: The route holds historical significance due to the 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajökull, which disrupted air travel across Europe. The Fimmvörðuháls Pass offers a close-up view of the volcanic landscape created by this eruption, with new lava flows and craters formed in the aftermath. The eruption in 2010 created two new craters: Fimmvörðuháls Craters (often referred to as Magni and Móði), which hikers can visit during the trek.

Hiking the Fimmvörðuháls Trail

Difficulty and Distance: The Fimmvörðuháls trail is considered a challenging hike, requiring a good level of fitness and preparation. The route is about 22 kilometers (13.7 miles) long, and it takes between 8 to 12 hours to complete, depending on fitness level and the time spent at various viewpoints. The trail is mostly unmarked, though well-established, and involves a mix of steep ascents, lava fields, glacial rivers, and highland landscapes.

Start and End Points: The hike typically begins at the Skógar area, near the famous Skogafoss Waterfall, one of Iceland's most iconic waterfalls. From here, the route heads toward the Fimmvörðuháls Pass, climbing through various scenic areas, including the Skógar river and numerous cascading waterfalls. The trail finishes either at the village of Þórsmörk, a stunning nature reserve surrounded by glaciers, or vice versa, depending on which direction you are hiking.

What to Expect: As you hike the Fimmvörðuháls Pass, you will encounter:

• Waterfalls: The path is known for its many waterfalls, the most famous being Skogafoss, but also Múlagljúfur and smaller falls along the route. Many of these are particularly spectacular in spring when the snowmelt swells the rivers.
• Volcanic Craters: The trek passes by the Magni and Móði Craters, formed during the 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajökull. These craters were created by a volcanic eruption that spewed lava and ash, leaving behind a landscape that is raw and dramatic.
• Lava Fields: Hiking through the fresh lava fields left behind by Eyjafjallajökull’s eruption offers a chance to witness nature's resilience as the landscape slowly recovers.
• Glaciers and Glacial Rivers: The route crosses areas of Mýrdalsjökull and Eyjafjallajökull glaciers, with several glacial rivers that can sometimes be challenging to cross, depending on the season.
• Stunning Views: As you reach the highest points of the pass, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, glaciers, valleys, and the southern coastline of Iceland. The contrasting scenery of green valleys, snow-capped peaks, and volcanic terrain makes for an unforgettable hike.

When to Hike Fimmvörðuháls

Best Time to Go: The best time to hike the Fimmvörðuháls Pass is typically between late June and early September, when the weather is more favorable and the trail is free of snow. During these months, the trail is also the safest to navigate, though it's still important to be prepared for unpredictable weather and conditions in the highlands.

Winter Conditions: In winter, the trail becomes much more challenging due to snow and ice, with sections becoming more dangerous. Winter hiking is only recommended for experienced hikers with the appropriate gear, and conditions can change rapidly.

Safety and Preparation

Weather: Iceland’s weather is notoriously unpredictable, even in the summer months. Hikers should be prepared for rain, wind, and sudden temperature drops, even in the warmest seasons. It's essential to pack waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and layers to adjust to changing conditions.

Guided Tours: While the trail is popular with experienced hikers, many visitors opt for guided tours to ensure safety and to learn about the area's history and geology. These tours typically provide a guide, safety gear, and transport to and from the trail, making it a more manageable option for those less familiar with the conditions of Iceland's highlands.

Campsites: For those who wish to break the hike into two days, there are campsites at Þórsmörk, making it possible to enjoy the route at a more leisurely pace. It is also possible to arrange transport for the second leg of the journey if you want to shorten your trip.

Nearby Attractions

Skogafoss Waterfall: As one of Iceland's most iconic waterfalls, Skogafoss is a great place to start or end your hike. With a height of 60 meters (197 feet), Skogafoss is a powerful and picturesque waterfall that attracts visitors year-round.

Þórsmörk Nature Reserve: The endpoint for many hikers, Þórsmörk is a beautiful nature reserve surrounded by glaciers and mountains, offering lush vegetation, hiking trails, and scenic views. It's a popular spot for camping, hiking, and relaxation after completing the Fimmvörðuháls hike.

Eyjafjallajökull Volcano: The volcano behind the eruption that caused worldwide disruption in 2010 is located in the area. Visitors can take guided tours to the base of the volcano or hike in the vicinity of the glacier that covers it.

Conclusion

The Fimmvörðuháls Pass is an iconic hiking route that offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience Iceland's volcanic landscapes, glaciers, and waterfalls. The challenge of the hike is matched by its stunning beauty and the rich geological history that surrounds it, particularly the aftermath of the Eyjafjallajökull eruption. For adventurous travelers and nature enthusiasts, this hike is an unforgettable experience that reveals Iceland’s wild and rugged charm.