Fagradalsfjall Volcano Trail

Background

History & Background

The current eruptive period on Reykjanes began at Fagradalsfjall in March 2021, followed by eruptions in 2022 and 2023. Marked visitor routes and parking areas were developed as the area became a major hiking destination. Later volcanic activity shifted toward the Sundhnúksgígar system, making current access information essential.

The Fagradalsfjall volcano trail network gives visitors access to the landscapes created during the eruptions of 2021, 2022 and 2023 east of Grindavík. Rather than one single trail, the area has several mapped hiking routes starting from the P1 and P2 parking areas along Suðurstrandarvegur. The terrain is rough and highly exposed. Routes cross gravel, uneven ground, older lava and steep sections, and the length of a visit depends on which viewpoint is chosen. Reykjanes Geopark describes the Fagradalsfjall–Langhóll hike as roughly 8–10 km and 2–3 hours, while Visit Reykjanes maintains the current eruption-area trail maps and parking information. The most important feature of this attraction is that access is dynamic. The volcanic unrest on Reykjanes has continued beyond Fagradalsfjall into the Sundhnúksgígar area. A route being open one week does not guarantee the same access later. Visitors must check current official information immediately before travelling. Walking on new lava is prohibited and dangerous. Apparently solid crust can hide heat, cavities and unstable sections. Weather, gas pollution and visibility can also make an otherwise open route unsafe. Good hiking shoes, waterproof layers, food, water and a charged phone are basic requirements. Parking fees apply at P1 and P2 under separate arrangements.