Strútsstígur Trail

The Strútsstígur trail is a quieter alternative to the Laugavegur, crossing the Fjallabak region of the Icelandic highlands from Hólaskjól to Hvanngil over three to four days. The route is about 45 km and passes some of the most dramatic scenery in the interior: the Eldgjá volcanic fissure, black-sand deserts, green oases, glacial rivers and the hot spring of Strútslaug, all with far fewer hikers than on its famous neighbour.

The trail is served by mountain huts run by the Icelandic hiking club Útivist, including Strútur hut. It joins the Laugavegur at Hvanngil, so many hikers continue on to Emstrur and Þórsmörk, creating a longer and more varied trek. Marking is sparse and in places absent, so you will need a map and a GPS track, plus river-crossing shoes and good mountain experience.

Strútsstígur suits hikers who have done the Laugavegur or want a similar experience without the crowds. It is a serious undertaking: remote, with unbridged rivers and changeable weather. Hut bookings and careful planning are essential, and a guided trip is a good option if you are new to highland trekking. Plan carefully around transport too, since the start and finish are far apart and served only by seasonal buses, and allow a spare day for bad weather.

Highlights

• The Eldgjá volcanic fissure and Ófærufoss waterfall
• Bathing in the Strútslaug hot spring
• Black-sand deserts and green highland oases
• Quiet trails compared with the Laugavegur
• Joining the Laugavegur at Hvanngil

Strútsstígur Trail itinerary

Getting to the trailhead

Hólaskjól is on F208 between Landmannalaugar and Kirkjubæjarklaustur, an F-road requiring a 4x4 with river crossings. Highland buses have served the Eldgjá area in some summers; check current schedules. From Hvanngil, most hikers continue on the Laugavegur to Þórsmörk, where highland buses typically run to Reykjavík.

Where to stay

Útivist runs huts along the trail, including Álftavötn and Strútur; book well in advance. Hólaskjól is a private highland centre with a lodge, small huts and a campsite. At Hvanngil, FÍ runs a hut. Camping is allowed only at designated sites near the huts.

Best time to hike

The trail is usually accessible in July and August, when the F-roads are open and snow has melted. Even then, weather can be cold, wet and windy. September can bring early snow.

Safety

River crossings are common; wade only where safe, facing upstream with poles, and cross early in the day when glacial melt is lowest. Weather can change rapidly, so carry full waterproofs and warm layers. Navigation can be challenging in poor visibility; carry a map and GPS. Leave a travel plan at safetravel.is, check vedur.is, and call 112 in an emergency.