Hrafntinnusker Hut and Campsite

The Höskuldsskáli hut in Hrafntinnusker, run by FÍ, accommodates 52 people and is located on the Laugavegur trail. The hut features an entrance hall, a kitchen with utensils, gas stoves and cold, running Perched around 1,140 m above sea level, Hrafntinnusker is the highest hut on the iconic Laugavegur Trail. Managed by Ferðafélag Íslands, it marks an unforgettable midpoint between Landmannalaugar and Álftavatn.

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Accommodation & Camping

• Höskuldsskáli hut accommodates up to 52 guests. Ground floor includes an entrance hall, kitchen with gas stoves, utensils, and running cold water. There are single and double bunks with mattresses, plus a loft area for sleeping-bag guests.
• Outdoor cooking area with a charcoal grill.
• Camping ground sits below the hut on gravel, sand, or remaining snow depending on conditions. Nearby latrine provides basic toilet facilities.

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Facilities

• No showers or electricity. Hikers and campers should bring their own gear and pack out all trash.
• A facility fee is required for visitors who are not staying overnight, granting access to toilets, water taps, benches, and grill space.
• Campers cannot use hut kitchens or indoor areas, even though they may use outdoor cooking spots.
• Hut must be booked in advance, but camping is available on a first-come, first-served basis once the site opens.

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Open Season

Hrafntinnusker typically opens from June 25 to September 16, depending on weather and road access in the Fjallabak Nature Reserve. It’s often surrounded by snow early in the season, and strong winds make camping here challenging. Many hikers choose to continue or skip it, camping instead in nearby sheltered sites like Hvanngil.‍

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What to Know Before You Go

• Prepare for extreme exposure—Hrafntinnusker is known for fierce wind and cold, even in July. Compact tents and secure pegging are essential.
• The hut is nearly inaccessible by regular vehicles—it's primarily reachable on foot as part of the multi-day hike. All guests must carry out their trash.
• Camping here is only advisable in calm weather. Many guidebooks suggest pushing through to Álftavatn or Hvanngil if conditions are harsh.

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Final Thoughts

Hrafntinnusker offers rare highland terrain—with obsidian lava, steaming vents, and dramatic views under Iceland’s wide sky. But it demands solid gear, flexibility, and a readiness to hike another stretch if the wind turns. If you choose to stop here, it will likely be one of the most atmospheric nights of your trek.

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