Löðmundur
A steep climb from Landmannahellir to the rocky summit of Löðmundur, with big views over the Fjallabak highlands.
- Distance
- 8.5 km
- Out & back
- Time
- 2.5–3.5 hours
- Ascent
- 450 m
- Max 1079 m
- Difficulty
- Moderate
The Löðmundur hike climbs a striking, steep-sided mountain above Landmannahellir in Iceland's Fjallabak highlands. The out-and-back route is 8.5 km with around 450 m of ascent and takes 2.5–3.5 hours, reaching a highest point of 1,079 m. From the top you look out over a wide sweep of the southern highlands, with Hekla, lava fields, lakes and coloured hills in every direction.
Löðmundur rises abruptly from the surrounding plains, so the upper part of the climb is steep, stony and loose. It is graded moderate, but you need a sure foot on scree and should be comfortable with some steep ground near the top. The mountain makes an excellent half-day outing for anyone staying at Landmannahellir or walking the Hellismannaleið trail, and it is far quieter than peaks around Landmannalaugar.
Highlights
- A panoramic summit at 1,079 m
- Views over Hekla and the Fjallabak highlands
- Quiet compared with the Landmannalaugar peaks
- A natural add-on to the Hellismannaleið trek
The route
Landmannahellir to the foot of the mountain
From the Landmannahellir area the route crosses the gentle valley floor and gravel slopes towards the base of Löðmundur. This section is easy going and gives time to warm up. Look ahead to pick out the line of ascent on the mountain's flank, which becomes noticeably steeper as you approach.
The steep climb to the summit
The path climbs steeply on loose scree and rock, with the gradient increasing towards the top. Take it slowly and use your hands where needed. Snow can linger in gullies into July. The summit gives wide views in good weather. Descend the same way with care, as the loose ground is easier to slip on going down.
Getting to the trailhead
Landmannahellir is in the Fjallabak highlands, reached by highland F-roads with river crossings, so a proper 4x4 is required. The usual approach is via F225 (Landmannaleið) from the Landvegur side, or from the Landmannalaugar direction. Check road.is for road openings before setting out, as highland roads open only in summer.
Where to stay
Landmannahellir has a hut and campsite that make the obvious base. Book ahead in summer. Otherwise Landmannalaugar is within driving distance by 4x4, and the lowland villages around Hella offer more choice.
Best time to hike
The season is July to September, when the highland roads are open. Early July can still bring snow on the upper slopes. July and August are the most reliable months; September is quieter and colder, with a greater chance of early snow.
Safety
The upper slopes are steep and loose, so good boots and care on the descent are essential. Fog can hide the route quickly, and summit winds can be strong and cold. Snow patches in gullies can be icy. The area is remote with limited phone signal. Leave a travel plan at SafeTravel.is, carry warm layers and a map, and call 112 in an emergency.
Plan & book
Book your Löðmundur hike
Huts & staysMountain Huts (Ferðafélag Íslands)
Book bunks in the Laugavegur and highland huts. Summer dates sell out months ahead.
Ferðafélag Íslands (FÍ)
Guided tourHighland Super Jeep Tours
No 4x4? Modified super jeeps cross the rivers and F-roads for you, with short hikes on the way.
Licensed Icelandic operators1 day
Gear rentalHiking & Camping Gear Rental in Reykjavík
Rent tents, sleeping bags, stoves, poles and microspikes instead of flying them over.
Reykjavík outfitters
Online booking opens soon. Press any button to get notified when it does.
Löðmundur FAQ
How long does it take to climb Löðmundur?+
Most hikers take 2.5–3.5 hours for the 8.5 km round trip, which includes around 450 m of ascent.
Is Löðmundur hard?+
It is a moderate hike with a steep, loose final climb. You need to be steady on scree, but no technical climbing is required.
How do you get to Löðmundur?+
The hike starts near Landmannahellir, reached by highland F-roads that require a proper 4x4.
Hike it with a private guide
Guided trips with a licensed Icelandic guide, including transport and huts.
Private guide requests are coming soon
We are lining up licensed local guides. Sign up and we will let you know as soon as you can request a tailored quote.
