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Skælingar–Blautulón Track

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901 Möðrudalsleið

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Krakatindur Track

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Jökuldalsvegur

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Hvannagil Track

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Hungurfit Track

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Hekla Track

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Gígjökull Track

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Emstur-Botnár Track

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Bjólfur Track

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Austurleið Þríhyrningsvatn

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Strútur Track

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F208 Fjallabaksleið Nyrðri South

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939 Öxi

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643 Strandavegur

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635 Snæfjallastrandarvegur

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630 Skálavíkurvegur

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624 Ingjaldssandsvegur

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622 Svalvogavegur

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612 Örlygshafnarvegur

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558 Berserkjahraunsvegur

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214 Kerlingardalsvegur Þakgil

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F985 Jökulvegur

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F980 Kollumúlavegur

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F959 Viðfjarðarvegur

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F946 Loðmundarfjarðarvegur

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F936 Þórdalsheiðarvegur

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F923 Jökuldalsvegur

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F910 West Dyngjufjallaleið

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F910 East Austurleið

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F909 Snæfellsleið

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F907 Möðrudalsleið

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F905 Arnardalsleið

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F903 Hvannalindavegur

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F902 Kverkfjallaleið

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F894 Öskjuvatnsvegur

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F881 Dragaleið

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​F843 Dyngjufjöll

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F821 Eyjafjarðarleið

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F752 Skagafjarðarleið

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​F735 Þjófadalavegur

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F734 Svörtutungur Old Kjölur Road

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F586 Haukadalsskarðsvegur

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F578 Arnarvatnsvegur

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F570 Jökulshálsvegur

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F508 Skorradalsvegur

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F349 Kerlingarfjöll Old Route

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F338 Skjaldbreiðarvegur

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F337 Hlöðuvallavegur

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F335 Hagavatnsvegur

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F333 Haukadalsvegur

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F261 Emstruleið

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F233 Álftavatnskrókur

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​F229 Jökulheimaleið

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F228 Veiðivatnaleið

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F225 Landmannaleið

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​F223 Eldgjárvegur

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F207 Lakagígavegur

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F88 Öskjuleið

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​F66 Kollafjarðarheiði

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F26 Sprengisandsleið

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F249 Þórsmerkurvegur

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F232 Öldufellsleið

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F210 Fjallabaksleið Syðri

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F206 Lakavegur

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614 Rauðisandsvegur

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F224 Landmannalaugavegur

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F208 Fjallabaksleið Nyrðri North

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F235 Langisjór

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F347 Kerlingarfjallavegur

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F575 Eysteinsdalsleið

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F35 Kjalvegur

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F839 Leirdalsheiðarvegur

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F899 Flateyjardalsvegur

River Crossing

Iceland's F-road F249 Þórsmerkurvegur: Your Comprehensive Guide

F249, known locally as Þórsmerkurvegur, is a highland road in Iceland that leads adventurers into the heart of the Þórsmörk Nature Reserve. This 32-kilometer (20-mile) route branches off from the Ring Road and winds through rugged terrains, offering travelers a chance to experience some of Iceland's most stunning landscapes. ​

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Road Conditions and Vehicle Requirements:

Þórsmerkurvegur is an F-road, meaning it’s a mountain track strictly for 4x4 vehicles with high ground clearance.

This route is widely regarded as one of the most challenging and respected F-roads in Iceland—mainly due to its multiple deep river crossings. These rivers can change drastically depending on recent weather. After heavy rain or hot days, glacier melt can cause water levels to rise quickly, increasing the risk of vehicle flooding.

Important:  Car rental insurance does not cover damage caused by river crossings, including engines flooded by water. Drivers must assess conditions carefully and be prepared to turn back if needed.

Only experienced drivers in well-equipped 4x4 vehicles (consider snorkel) should attempt this route.

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Krossá River Crossing:

One of the most notable challenges on F249 is the crossing of the Krossá River, which is among the largest river crossings on Iceland's marked F-roads. The depth and flow of Krossá can vary significantly, influenced by weather conditions and glacial melt, making it potentially hazardous. It's crucial to assess water levels carefully before attempting a crossing, and travelers are advised to consult local authorities or guides for current conditions.

​Accessing the Langidalur campsite in Þórsmörk does not necessitate crossing the Krossá River by vehicle, a crossing known for its unpredictability and potential danger. Instead, visitors can park their vehicles before the river and utilize a pedestrian bridge to reach the campsite safely.

Krossá River

Safety and Preparation:

Traveling on F249 requires meticulous preparation:​

  • Vehicle Selection: Ensure your vehicle is a reliable 4x4 with high ground clearance, capable of handling rough terrains and deep river crossings.
  • Weather and Road Conditions: Always check current weather forecasts and road conditions before setting out. Conditions can change rapidly, and what might be a manageable river crossing in the morning could become impassable by afternoon.​
  • Travel Companions: It's advisable to travel with others or inform someone of your itinerary. In case of emergencies, having assistance nearby can be invaluable.​
  • Equipment: Carry essential safety gear, including a first aid kit, tow ropes, and communication devices.​

Alternative Access:

For those hesitant to drive F249, especially considering the challenges posed by river crossings like Krossá, there are alternative options:​

  • Bus Services: Regular bus services operate to Þórsmörk, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of the region without the stress of navigating F-roads. ​

Accommodations in Þórsmörk:

Upon reaching Þórsmörk, visitors have several lodging options:​

  • Husadalur: (Operated by Volcano Huts) Situated in the Húsadalur valley, these huts offer a range of accommodations, including small cottages, shared dormitories, private bedrooms, glamping tents, and camping grounds. The huts are equipped with cold running water and kettles for heating, providing a cozy retreat amidst the wilderness.

Husadalur: (Operated by Volcano HutsÞórsmerkurvegur  F249 Iceland  Iceland F-roads  Highland road Iceland  4x4 road Iceland  river crossings Iceland  Þórsmörk road conditions  Iceland mountain tracks  dangerous F-roads Iceland  driving to Þórsmörk  off-road Iceland  Iceland 4x4 travel  river crossing Iceland insurance) Situated in the Húsadalur valley, these huts offer a range of accommodations, including small cottages, shared dormitories, private bedrooms, glamping tents, and camping grounds. The huts are equipped with cold running water and kettles for heating, providing a cozy retreat amidst the wilderness.
Husadalur Volcano Huts Campsite

  • Langidalur Hut: (Operated by Útivist) This spacious hut accommodates up to 75 people across two floors. It features two kitchens and a large dining area, making it suitable for larger groups or those seeking a communal atmosphere.

Langidalur Campsite

  • Basar Hut and Campsite: (Operated by Ferðafélag Íslands) A quieter campsite ideal for those looking for a more remote experience.

Basar Campsite

Hiking in Þórsmörk: Iceland’s Highland Paradise

Þórsmörk (Thórsmörk), a breathtaking valley nestled between the glaciers Tindfjallajökull, Eyjafjallajökull, and Mýrdalsjökull, is one of Iceland’s premier hiking destinations. Known for its lush landscapes, deep canyons, and rugged mountain trails, Þórsmörk offers an unparalleled outdoor adventure for hikers of all levels.

Top Hiking Trails in Þórsmörk

1. Valahnúkur Mountain Hike (Easy-Moderate, 2-3 Hours)

One of the most popular hikes in Þórsmörk, the Valahnúkur trail leads to a stunning 360° panoramic viewpoint. From the summit, hikers can admire sweeping views of glaciers, river valleys, and moss-covered mountains. The trailhead starts at Langidalur campsite and features a steady incline, making it a perfect short hike for beginners and seasoned hikers alike.

Valahnúkur

2. Stakkholtsgjá Canyon (Easy, 1-2 Hours)

A relatively short but rewarding hike, this route takes hikers into a deep canyon with towering rock walls covered in moss. At the end of the canyon, a beautiful waterfall cascades from a hidden crevice, making for an unforgettable experience.

Stakkholtsgjá

3. Fimmvörðuháls Trail (Challenging, 10-12 Hours or Overnight)

One of Iceland’s most famous treks, the Fimmvörðuháls hike stretches 25 km between Þórsmörk and Skógar. This challenging route takes hikers over lava fields from the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption, past steaming vents, and alongside magnificent waterfalls. Some choose to complete it in a single day, while others stay overnight in the Fimmvörðuskáli hut near the volcanic craters, Magni and Móði.

Fimmvörðuháls

4. Laugavegur Trail (Multi-Day, 3-4 Days)

Þórsmörk marks the endpoint of the legendary 55 km Laugavegur Trail, which begins in Landmannalaugar. Known for its otherworldly landscapes, geothermal hot springs, and vast lava fields, this trek is considered one of the world’s best long-distance hikes. Many hikers celebrate their completion of the trail by staying at the campsites or huts in Þórsmörk.

Laugavegur

In conclusion, F249 – Þórsmerkurvegur offers a thrilling journey into one of Iceland's most picturesque regions. With proper preparation and respect for the unpredictable Icelandic environment, travelers can enjoy the breathtaking beauty and serenity of Þórsmörk.

Map of F-Road