Laugavegur landscape

Photo: Photo by Jon Flobrant on Unsplash

Laugavegur

3–4 days · 32.9 mi · moderate · Point-to-point

Quick facts

Distance32.9 mi
Days out4
Elevation gain4,215 ft
Gain / mile128 ft
High point3,464 ft
Difficulty index19/100

What the Laugavegur is known for

The Laugavegur is Iceland's best-known multi-day trek, running between Landmannalaugar and Þórsmörk past rhyolite mountains, geothermal areas, and glacial rivers. It's typically walked hut-to-hut.

Route map & campsites

Route map of the Laugavegur on OpenStreetMap terrain Open in Planner →

Route shape from OpenStreetMap geometry. Start · End · Camp

Elevation profile

Elevation ranges from 804 ft to 3,458 ft over 32.9 mi. Measured from OSM geometry (approximate).

  • Uphill 8.2 mi · 25%
  • Downhill 9.9 mi · 30%
  • Flat 14.3 mi · 44%

Ridgefold breaks every route into uphill, downhill, and flat — see the full per-day breakdown in the app.

How hard is the Laugavegur?

19 / 100

On the Ridgefold Difficulty Index, the Laugavegur scores 19/100, a relative rating across the 569 trails we've mapped, blending distance, elevation gain, and steepness. It is a comparison within our set, not an official rating.

Best season & permits

Season: Late June to early September.

Permits: No permit; huts require advance booking.

Official trail & permit info

Always confirm current conditions, closures, and permit rules with the managing authority before your trip.

Frequently asked questions

How many days does the Laugavegur take?

Most backpackers take 3–4 days to hike the Laugavegur's 32.9 miles, though pace varies with fitness and conditions.

How much elevation gain is on the Laugavegur?

The Laugavegur climbs roughly 4,215 ft total — about 128 ft per mile, topping out near 3,464 ft.

When is the best time to hike the Laugavegur?

Late June to early September.

Do you need a permit for the Laugavegur?

No permit; huts require advance booking.

Related trails

Sources & attribution

Route geometry and stats derived from OpenStreetMap (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL) — source relation. Stats are approximate and may differ from official surveys; permit rules and conditions change — verify with the managing authority before your trip. Last reviewed July 2026.

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