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Iceland is full of hiking trails, but many travelers stick to the well-known spots – waterfalls you can drive right up to, or the busy Laugavegur trail. A shame, really, because the real adventure often starts just off the beaten path.

In this blog, I’ll share 5 of the best hikes in Iceland that are a bit less obvious but absolutely worth it. They’re not all long or difficult, but each one shows you a different, raw side of Iceland.

The 5 Most Adventurous Hikes in Iceland

1. Brúarárfoss Waterfall

Location: Brúará Trail, Golden Circle area, South Iceland

This was the very first hike I ever did in Iceland, and I still come back to it every year. Brúarárfoss is a stunning, bright blue waterfall that spills into the river in dozens of little steps. There’s a reason I have a big photo of it hanging above my bed.

From the small parking area, it’s about 3.5 km along the crystal-clear Brúará river. The trail takes you over narrow paths, muddy patches, and rocky sections. The path isn’t always obvious, which makes it feel like a little adventure.

Along the way, you’ll pass two other waterfalls before reaching Brúarárfoss itself. After visiting, you can either walk back the same way or continue a bit further to the larger parking area. If you’re lucky, someone can give you a lift back. Sure, you can drive straight to the falls – but then you’ll miss the best part: the hike.

2. Dimmuborgir – Hverfjall

Location: Dimmuborgir parking, North Iceland

This hike in the Mývatn area (North Iceland) is about 3 km one way. You start at the Dimmuborgir lava fields, a rugged landscape whose name literally means “dark castles.” With its caves and jagged rock formations, it’s easy to see where Icelandic folklore gets its inspiration.

From the parking lot, a path leads you toward the giant Hverfjall crater. The landscape gradually shifts into something that looks like the surface of the moon. The climb to the top isn’t long, but it’s steep and dusty. At the crater rim, you’re rewarded with wide views over the whole area – the Mývatn lake, lava fields, and distant steam vents. It really does feel like another planet.

3. Brennisteinsalda, Landmannalaugar

Location: Landmannalaugar parking, accessible via F225 or F208

In Iceland’s highlands, Landmannalaugar is a popular starting point for multi-day treks, but it’s also perfect for a solid day hike. I did an 8 km out-and-back hike to the colorful Brennisteinsalda mountain and returned through a beautiful lava field. The views are amazing and it feels like you’re on the moon! 

After the hike, you can relax in the natural hot spring near the campsite and then drive back to your accommodation. Reaching Landmannalaugar itself is already an adventure but a 4×4 vehicle is required.

4. Svartifoss Loop from Skaftafell

Location: Skaftafell Visitors Centre, South East Iceland

If you’re in Skaftafell, this loop hike is definitely worth doing. The route is about 7.5 km and takes around 3 hours depending on your pace. You start at the Visitors Centre and follow the trail to Svartifoss waterfall, but after that, the path gets quieter and more adventurous. It climbs gradually with views over the glacier and black sand plains.

The final stretch to the top is steeper and looser underfoot, but still manageable. From the top, the views over the national park are fantastic. I recommend to wear proper hiking boots and a rain coat. 

You can also extend the loop with the 17 km Kristínartindar trail. That one’s more challenging and takes around 6–7 hours. I’d recommend doing it on a clear day – in the fog, you’ll miss out on all the great views.

5. Fimmvörðuháls

Location: Between Skógar and Þórsmörk, South Iceland

The Fimmvörðuháls hike is one of Iceland’s tougher day hikes – but also one of the most spectacular. It stretches about 24 km between Skógar and Þórsmörk (or vice versa) with serious elevation gain.

Along the way, you pass no fewer than 26 waterfalls, lava fields from the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption, and you’ll be hiking between two glaciers. The scenery keeps changing, which helps make up for the long distance.

You’ll need a decent fitness level, and the weather can change quickly, but if you get the chance, this is the kind of hike you won’t forget. If you end the hike in Þórsmörk, I recommend to stay here for a night and explore this beautiful area for another day. 

As you can see: Iceland has something for every kind of hiker. From short scenic walks to challenging mountain routes. Whether it’s the silence, the changing landscapes, or just the feeling of being out there on your own – this is the Iceland I keep coming back for.

I’m curious what hike(s) you would choose when you visit Iceland.

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