Bláhnúkur, Skalli and Grænihryggur Circuit
Key facts about the hike
- Difficulty
- Very hard Hikes are rated from very easy to very hard: my difficulty scale
- Duration
- 9h Estimated time, short breaks included (photos, water, snacks), picnic not included: how it is calculated
- Distance
- 23.7km
- Elevation gain
- 1,500m
- Type of route
- Loop
- Maximum altitude
- 1,015 m
- Vertiginous Five levels, depending on how exposed the route is: the levels in detail
- Highly
- Marked
- Partially
- Popularity
- Low
- Region
- Highlands
- Start point
- 63.99055, -19.06025
- Activity
- Hiking
Hike overview
This hike showcases the best of the Bláhnúkur, Skalli, and Grænihryggur routes. It includes an additional section that starts from the Uppgönguhryggur ridge, which I found to be the most breathtaking.
Designed to bring together all my favorite places in Landmannalaugar, this hike is an unforgettable experience and undoubtedly my favorite in Iceland. That says a lot, given the abundance of natural wonders in this country. The beginning of the route to the summit of Bláhnúkur attracts many hikers, but the atmosphere becomes intimate thereafter.
Map and elevation profile of the hike
Bláhnúkur, Skalli and Grænihryggur Circuit
Description and difficulties of the hike
About half of the hike follows an excellently marked trail, while the other half is unmarked and sometimes off-trail with only a few tracks to guide you.
Important: This extraordinary hike presents serious difficulties that should not be underestimated, including the route's length and significant elevation gain, as well as difficult navigation, river crossings, steep and slippery scree, and long, vertiginous ridges.
If you choose this route, do not hesitate to turn back at the slightest hesitation. To help you navigate, I strongly recommend downloading the GPX file. Crocs-type shoes and hiking poles will also be useful for crossing rivers.
Please note: The route passes close to Skalli without reaching its summit. If you have energy left at the end of the hike, you may want to climb this peak. It takes just over half an hour on a marked trail.
What you'll love
- The diversity of the landscapes: This hike combines the most beautiful aspects of three iconic routes into one exceptional trail.
- The extraordinary colors of the Uppgönguhryggur ridge: The descent into the bottom of the canyon via this exceptional ridge is a moment suspended in time. The rest of the hike has its own surprises, which I'll leave for you to discover!
- The intimate, unspoiled atmosphere: After Bláhnúkur, you'll find yourself in a wild environment far from tourist trails.
- The adventurous nature of this technical hike provides an exceptional sense of accomplishment.
- Relaxing bath: At the end of the hike, you can unwind in the natural hot spring at Landmannalaugar, which is perfect for loosening up your muscles after intense exercise.
Practical information
Getting to Landmannalaugar
The roads in the highlands are only open in the summer. Several bus companies provide connections to Reykjavik. If you prefer to drive, you will need a 4WD vehicle to travel on F-roads. There are three options available to you:
- The F208 road from the north: the easiest option, with no river crossings.
- The F225 road: more picturesque but requires crossing several shallow rivers.
- The F208 road from the south: crosses several medium-depth rivers.
See my dedicated page on driving in the Highlands for more information.
Parking
It is now necessary to reserve a parking space before your arrival.
Hiking in Landmannalaugar
Check out my Landmannalaugar guide to help you choose your hikes.
Photos
See all 51 photos →
More hikes to do in Iceland
Nearby hikes
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