Þórsmörk: Útigönguhöfði
Útigönguhöfði
A steep, chain-assisted climb from Básar in Þórsmörk to a rocky summit with views over glaciers and braided rivers.
- Distance
- 5 km
- Out & back
- Time
- 2–3 hours
- Ascent
- 600 m
- Max 805 m
- Difficulty
- Challenging
The Útigönguhöfði hike is one of the most rewarding climbs in Þórsmörk, the green valley tucked between three glaciers in South Iceland. The out-and-back route starts at Básar and is 5 km with around 600 m of total ascent, taking 2–3 hours and reaching about 805 m. From the top you look over Eyjafjallajökull, Mýrdalsjökull and the braided glacial rivers of the Krossá valley.
It is a challenging hike: steep, rocky and exposed in places, with fixed chains and ropes on the hardest sections near the summit. It is not technical climbing, but you need a head for heights and steady footing. Lower down, the route winds through birch woodland and over ridges, so even if you stop short of the summit you get superb views of the valley.
Highlights
- Panoramic views of Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull
- Fixed chains on the steep final section
- Birch woodland and ridges above Básar
- Looking down over the braided Krossá river
The route
Básar through the woodland
From the huts at Básar the trail climbs through birch scrub and up onto the ridges south of the valley. The path is steep in places but well trodden, and the views across the Krossá plain improve with every step. This section shares ground with the end of the Fimmvörðuháls route.
The summit climb
Above the woodland the route steepens on rocky ground, with fixed chains and ropes on the most exposed parts. Take your time and test each hold. The summit is narrow but has room to rest and enjoy the view. Return the same way, being especially careful on the steep descent and in wet conditions.
Getting to the trailhead
The hike starts at Básar in Þórsmörk. The road in, F249, fords the Steinsholtsá, Hvanná and other glacial rivers that are dangerous for ordinary vehicles, so most hikers take a summer highland bus. Do not drive a rental car into Þórsmörk. Check road.is and bus operators' current schedules before planning.
Where to stay
Útivist runs huts and a campsite at Básar, the natural base for this hike. FÍ's Langidalur hut and Volcano Huts in Húsadalur are elsewhere in Þórsmörk. Book ahead in summer, and camp only at designated sites.
Best time to hike
The season is June to September. Late June to August gives the longest days and most stable weather, and the highland buses are running. Early in the season snow can linger near the summit; in September conditions turn colder and windier.
Safety
The upper section is steep and exposed, with drops beside the path, so avoid it in strong wind, rain or ice. Use the chains but do not rely on them blindly. Carry water, warm layers and waterproofs. Never try to wade the glacial rivers. Leave a travel plan at SafeTravel.is and call 112 in an emergency.
Plan & book
Book your Þórsmörk hike
TransportHighland Bus to/from Þórsmörk & Skógar
Get back from the end of the Laugavegur or to the Fimmvörðuháls trailhead at Skógar.
Reykjavik Excursions · Trex
Huts & staysVolcano Huts Þórsmörk (Húsadalur)
Huts, cabins and camping in Húsadalur, Þórsmörk, with a restaurant and their own transfers.
Volcano Huts
Guided tourÞórsmörk Day Tour
Super jeep or highland bus into Þórsmörk with guided hikes to Valahnúkur and Stakkholtsgjá.
Licensed Icelandic operators1 day
Online booking opens soon. Press any button to get notified when it does.
Þórsmörk FAQ
How long is the Útigönguhöfði hike?+
The out-and-back route from Básar is 5 km with around 600 m of total ascent and usually takes 2–3 hours.
Is Útigönguhöfði hard?+
Yes, it is challenging. The upper section is steep and exposed with fixed chains, so it is not suitable for anyone uncomfortable with heights.
How do you get to Útigönguhöfði?+
Take a highland bus to Básar in Þórsmörk. The road crosses glacial rivers that are unsafe for normal cars.
Hike it with a private guide
Guided trips with a licensed Icelandic guide, including transport and huts.
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