Askja Trail
Askja Trail: Ultimate Guide to Hiking Iceland’s Volcanic Highlands
Embark on an unforgettable adventure across the Askja Trail, one of Iceland’s most remote and spectacular hiking routes. Winding through the otherworldly landscapes of the Icelandic Highlands, this multi-day trek immerses hikers in a volcanic expanse shaped by centuries of geothermal activity. Expect to traverse stark lava fields, cross snow-dusted mountain passes, and witness the vivid contrast between black desert sands and glacial streams, all under the dramatic skyscape of northern latitudes.
The Askja Trail offers breathtaking views of the imposing Askja caldera and its vibrant, mineral-rich crater lakes. Along the way, wild geothermal vents and rugged rock formations give a sense of both isolation and awe. Challenging and rewarding, this journey is as much a test of endurance as an exploration of Iceland’s raw beauty, promising an experience that will resonate with lovers of untamed wilderness.
Route Overview
The Askja Trail is a point-to-point hike typically starting at Herðubreiðarlindir in the north and finishing at Dreki Hut near the Askja caldera in the south, or vice versa. The distance is approximately 100 kilometers, usually completed over 4 days, depending on pace and weather. The route takes hikers across Iceland’s central highlands, traversing volcanic sands, lava fields, rugged highland passes, and expansive desolate plateaus.
Major landmarks and waypoints include the oasis of Herðubreiðarlindir, the distinct volcanic mountain Herðubreið, the vast Holuhraun Lava Field, and the dramatic landscape of the Askja caldera and Víti crater lake. Along the trail, there are staffed and unstaffed huts offering basic shelter and designated campsites, though facilities are minimal. Trail conditions are variable, often alternating between rocky, dirt, and occasional snow-covered sections, with river crossings possible in some areas. Markings are present but can be sparse, so navigation skills are highly recommended.
Due to the remote setting, hikers must be well-prepared, carrying all necessary provisions, including food, water purification options, and warm and waterproof clothing. Summer is the recommended season for this trek, as snow cover is reduced and access to the trailheads is possible via highland buses or 4WD vehicles. Weather changes remain a significant factor to consider, and advance planning is crucial for a successful and safe journey.
The Geological and Historical Significance of the Askja Region
The Askja region holds a unique place in Icelandic history, shaped by powerful geological forces and moments of scientific discovery. The area is dominated by the dramatic Askja caldera, created by a series of volcanic eruptions, the most notable being the 1875 eruption that blanketed northeast Iceland with volcanic ash and caused widespread crop failures. This event dramatically impacted local communities and led to significant emigration from Iceland, especially to North America.
In the 20th century, Askja attracted global attention as a site for space exploration training. NASA chose the lunar-like landscapes of Askja and its neighboring lava fields as training grounds for Apollo astronauts in the 1960s, preparing them for the unfamiliar terrain of the Moon. The trail today follows paths that early explorers, scientists, and adventurers used to study and understand the powerful forces shaping Iceland’s interior. Hikers traversing the Askja Trail walk in the footsteps of volcanologists, geologists, and pioneering astronauts, forging a connection to the region’s turbulent geological and human past.
Notable highlights
Askja Caldera: A dramatic volcanic depression measuring around 50 square kilometers. The caldera features stark landscapes of black sand and pumice, framed by rugged mountains, making it one of the most iconic visual highlights of the trail.
Víti Crater: A geothermal explosion crater filled with bright blue, mineral-rich water. The contrast between the turquoise lake and the surrounding rhyolite slopes makes this a must-see stop, and adventurous hikers sometimes take a dip in the warm waters.
Dreki Hut and Canyon: Located at the northern end of the trail, the Dreki (Dragon) Canyon is renowned for its unique rock formations and folklore. The nearby hut serves as a key rest point and base for exploring the canyon.
Holuhraun Lava Field: This extensive lava field formed during recent eruptions, most notably in 2014-2015. Traversing this vast, black expanse offers a firsthand view of Iceland’s newest landscapes, with striking contrasts between fresh lava and icy rivers.
Öskjuvatn Lake: Iceland’s deepest lake, nestled inside the Askja caldera. Its pristine blue waters mirror the surrounding mountains and are often bordered by snow, creating stunning photo opportunities.
Geothermal Vents and Fumaroles: Along the route, hikers encounter steaming vents and bubbling mud pools—visible evidence of the powerful geothermal activity that continues to shape the region.
Wide-Open Highlands Views: On clear days, the trail rewards trekkers with panoramic vistas across the barren interior, showcasing Iceland’s highland deserts, distant glaciers, and dramatic volcanic peaks.
Challenges to expect
Hikers on the Askja Trail should be prepared for rugged, remote, and exposed terrain. The path traverses volcanic deserts, rocky lava fields, and snow patches—even in mid-summer. Footing can be unstable over loose scree or jagged volcanic rock, and there are few natural windbreaks against harsh weather conditions. Elevation gains are significant, adding physical challenge to each stage of the route.
Weather in Iceland’s interior is unpredictable and often severe, with sudden changes that can bring strong winds, freezing temperatures, heavy rain, or even snow. Fog is common and can make navigation difficult, especially in areas with faint or unmarked trails. GPS navigation or a detailed map and compass are essential, as waymarking may be sparse in some sections.
The remoteness of the trail means that services are extremely limited, and hikers must be self-sufficient, carrying food, adequate clothing, and emergency supplies. River crossings may be necessary, depending on snowmelt and rainfall, and can be hazardous. Mobile phone coverage is unreliable or nonexistent for large portions of the trail, so emergency communication devices are recommended for safety.
Iceland - Mountainous
- Arctic
- Desert
- Dirt
- Rocky
- Snow
- Huts
- Campsites
- Wild camping spots
- Pet Friendly
- Restrooms
- Water Sources
- Campsites
- Shelters
The route begins at Herðubreiðarlindir, a lush oasis in the barren Ódáðahraun lava field, and proceeds southwards through vast stretches of volcanic desert. Hikers will cross old lava flows and coarse black sand plains while keeping the majestic Herðubreið mountain in view. Campsite options are available near Bræðrafell mountain, providing a natural shelter after a day of primarily open, exposed walking.
Leaving Bræðrafell, hikers continue across inhospitable highland plateaus and into the dramatic Holuhraun lava field, the site of Iceland’s recent volcanic activity in 2014-2015. The landscape is raw and ever-changing, featuring newly formed lava, pockets of steam vents, and stretches of gravel or snow patches even during summer. Water sources become scarcer, so planning water resupply in advance is crucial.
This section pushes south toward the Dreki Hut near the base of the Askja caldera. The walking is challenging, with varied rocky and sandy terrain, scattered snow patches, and significant exposure to the elements. Dreki Hut serves as a key shelter near the impressive Dragon Canyon. The day ends with the rugged mountains of Askja rising on the horizon and an opportunity to rest and resupply at the hut.
The final day is a spectacular ascent into the Askja caldera itself. The route climbs past volcanic slopes and across lingering snowfields, eventually arriving at the rim of the caldera and the striking Víti explosion crater with its turquoise geothermal lake. Hikers can detour to the shores of Öskjuvatn, Iceland’s deepest lake, before descending back to Dreki for pickup or onward travel. This stage, though shorter, involves more altitude gain and the potential for colder, windier conditions.