Iceland’s Best Hikes Are the Ones You’ll Never Find on a Map
Everyone’s seen Gullfoss, Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. But for those who hike to disconnect—not document—there’s a wilder side of Iceland calling. This post dives into one of those unforgettable off-track routes, where the silence is only broken by wind and water, and every step deepens your connection to the land.
Inspired by this short film, we take you behind the scenes of an Iceland few travelers ever reach.
Why Off-Track Hiking?
Because you’re not here for a bucket list. You’re here for:
- Solitude: No crowds, no noise.
- Discovery: Waterfalls and canyons without names or signs.
- Challenge: The kind of terrain that makes you earn every breathtaking view.
These trails won’t show up on Google Maps. That’s the point.
The Route: Where You Leave the Path Behind
This hike starts in the southern Highlands, weaving through moss-covered lava fields and steep, misty ridgelines. With no signage and little online presence, it’s for hikers who love the journey as much as the destination.
- Distance: 14-15 km round trip
- Time: 5–6 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate to hard
- Highlight: A towering, unnamed waterfall in a hidden gorge
What You’ll See (and Not See)
Expect:
- Deep-cut canyons
- Black sand trails and mossy plateaus
- Sheep tracks instead of trail markers
- Glacial runoff rivers
- Unforgettable waterfalls
Don’t expect:
- Crowds
- Signage
- Cafés
- Cell reception
Preparation Tips for Off-Track Trails
To safely and responsibly hike off the beaten path in Iceland:
- Use GPS (download offline maps)
- Wear waterproof boots
- Bring layers—weather shifts fast
- Tell someone your plan
- Carry out everything you bring in
Use www.safetravel.is for example to check trail safety and conditions before you go.
Why We Keep Locations Vague
We believe that Iceland’s wildest places deserve protection. Sharing every pin on the map brings too much foot traffic and damages fragile ecosystems. If you’re serious about this kind of hike, we’re here to help—just reach out.
Let’s Talk Real Iceland Hiking
If this type of adventure speaks to you—untamed, quiet, wild—we’d love to hear from you. You can:
- Contact us directly at Hikers of Iceland
- Follow our journeys and reach out on Instagram @hikersoficeland