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Kerlingarfjöll
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Kerlingarfjöll is a prominent mountain range located in the central Highlands of Iceland, near the Kjölur mountain road and situated between the Hofsjökull and Langjökull glaciers. Part of a large tuya volcano system, the area is renowned for its diverse geological features, including rhyolite mountains that display a striking spectrum of red, yellow, and green hues. The range reaches a maximum elevation of 1,477 meters at the Snækollur peak, offering extensive views over the surrounding arctic wilderness and ice fields. Historically, the area was associated with outlaws and folk legends, specifically the "old woman" who is said to have turned into stone upon witnessing the sunrise. Today, the Hveradalir geothermal area within the mountains serves as one of the most active hot spring regions in the country, featuring bubbling mud pots and intense steam vents. This landscape was shaped by subglacial volcanic activity during the last ice age, leaving behind a complex terrain of ridges and deep valleys. Scientific interest in the region remains high due to its unique mineral compositions and the ongoing tectonic activity. The area was officially designated as a nature reserve in 2017 to protect its delicate geothermal formations and biodiversity.
- Location: Iceland
- Top sights: Kerlingarfjöll · Snækollur · Ögmundur
- Nearby: Landmannalaugar (72 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -6 | -6 | -5 | -2 | 0 | 4 | 6 | 5 | 2 | -1 | -4 | -6 |
| Rain mm | 159 | 145 | 142 | 115 | 85 | 77 | 100 | 101 | 158 | 133 | 135 | 163 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Reaching this mountain range usually involves driving along the rugged Kjölur highland route (F35), turning off onto a smaller, rockier access track. A reliable 4x4 vehicle with good ground clearance is absolutely necessary to reach the base camp.
Best season
The area is typically most accessible and popular during the summer season, stretching from late June through early September. Outside of these months, the highland roads are generally closed by heavy snow, requiring specialized winter tours.
Terrain & paths
The region features incredibly striking, colorful rhyolite mountains interspersed with steaming geothermal valleys. Hiking paths can be quite steep, covered in loose gravel, and very slippery due to the damp geothermal clay and melting snow patches.
What to bring
Sturdy hiking boots with excellent ankle support are strictly crucial for tackling the steep, uneven volcanic slopes safely. Visitors should always pack reliable waterproofs, thermal base layers, and perhaps trekking poles to assist with descents.
Parking
Most visitors normally leave their vehicles at the main highland resort base camp or at the designated upper parking area near the geothermal valley. These lots are unpaved but generally spacious enough to safely accommodate the summer crowds.
Safety
The geothermal areas contain boiling mud pools and extremely hot steam vents, making it imperative to stay strictly on the officially marked trails. Sudden highland blizzards or thick fog can easily disorient hikers, even in the middle of summer.
Time needed
Exploring the primary geothermal valleys and surrounding peaks typically requires at least three to five hours of reasonably active hiking. Given the long drive to reach the area, most visitors plan for a full day trip or opt to stay overnight.
Geography
Facts
- The highest peak in the range is Snækollur, standing at 1,477 meters.
- The mountains are primarily composed of colorful rhyolite rock.
- Hveradalir is among the largest and most active geothermal areas in Iceland.
- The name Kerlingarfjöll translates to "Old Woman's Mountains."
- The area was officially designated as a nature reserve in 2017.
- The landscape was significantly shaped by subglacial volcanic activity.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Sights in the town Kerlingarfjöll (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why are the mountains colorful here?
The rhyolite rock creates shades of orange, yellow, and red.
What is Hveradalir?
An extremely active geothermal area with steaming vents amidst the mountains.
Do I need a 4x4?
Yes, access is via the gravel F35 (Kjölur) highland road.
Is there accommodation available?
Yes, the mountain resort features huts, hotel rooms, and camping.
Is there snow there in summer?
Yes, snow patches often remain year-round in higher elevations.
Kerlingarfjöll: where is it located?
Kerlingarfjöll is located in Iceland.
Kerlingarfjöll: what is there to see?
Highlights include Kerlingarfjöll, Snækollur, Ögmundur.
Kerlingarfjöll: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Kerlingarfjöll: why is it worth visiting?
Kerlingarfjöll is a prominent mountain range located in the central Highlands of Iceland, near the Kjölur mountain road and situated between the Hofsjökull and Langjökull glaciers.
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