Kjalvegur hinn forni
A 41 km historic Highland hiking route between Hveravellir and Hvítárnes, normally walked over 2–3 days.
At a Glance
Visit time
2–3 days for the full trail, or shorter out-and-back sections from either end.
Best Season
Usually late June to early September, depending on road openings, snow and weather.
Getting There
The full route is a 41 km hike. Hveravellir and Hvítárnes can both be reached by suitable 4x4 vehicles; there is no scheduled bus service on Kjölur.
GPS
64.7176, -19.4625
About
About Kjalvegur hinn forni
A 41 km historic Highland hiking route between Hveravellir and Hvítárnes, normally walked over 2–3 days.
Walk one of Iceland's classic historic Highland routes instead of merely driving the modern Kjölur road, with huts, glacial views and remote interior landscapes over 2–3 days.
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Background
History & Background
Kjalvegur was one of the established north–south travel corridors across Iceland's Highlands. Before roads for cars, the route used by riders lay farther west than the modern Kjölur road, closer to Langjökull and across more vegetated country. Ferðafélag Íslands has documented and maintained the old route as a hiking trail between Hveravellir and Hvítárnes.
Kjalvegur hinn forni is a multi-day hiking route across Kjölur rather than another name for the modern F35 road. It runs between Hveravellir and Hvítárnes, using the older travel corridor nearer Langjökull. The trail is generally straightforward in good summer weather and is marked for most of its length, but fog can reduce visibility to almost nothing and mobile coverage is unreliable. Hikers should carry navigation tools, waterproof and insulating layers, food, emergency equipment and suitable river-crossing footwear. Accommodation along the wider route is supported by the FÍ hut network.
Folklore
Story & Folklore
Before motor roads crossed Kjölur, travellers on foot and horseback followed a route farther west, closer to Langjökull, where vegetation and water made the journey more practical. That older line is now walked as Kjalvegur hinn forni. The modern hiking route links Hveravellir and Hvítárnes and preserves the experience of travelling slowly through the interior rather than simply crossing it by road.
Did You Know?
Kjalvegur hinn forni is 41 km long.
Explore
Hidden Gems Nearby
Off-Peak Visit
Visit Kjalvegur during shoulder season (May or September) for a perfect balance of access and solitude.
You'll experience the site without summer crowds while still having good weather and daylight.
Local Flora
Look for the native Icelandic plants growing in the area — Arctic thyme, moss campion, and various lichens.
These resilient plants have adapted to survive harsh conditions and add subtle beauty to the landscape.
Changing Light
Kjalvegur looks dramatically different depending on the time of day and weather conditions.
Cloud shadows, rain showers, and low-angle sunlight can transform the landscape within minutes — Iceland's famous "four seasons in one day."
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Frequently Asked Questions
Location
Location
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