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Eldborg crater hiking trail

Hiking trail up Eldborg crater in Hnappadal.

More information

Region
Vesturland, Borgarbyggð
Starting point
N64°46.4456 W022°18.1262
Level of difficulty
Level 1 - Easy route
1 2 3 4
Markings
  • Marked trail with cairns
  • Sign(s) at the starting point of the trail
Duration
1 - 2 hours
Surface
  • Grass
  • Rocks
  • Lava
  • Mixed surface - e.g. soil, stones, grass
  • Gravel
Hazards
  • Rockfall - Rocks can fall from cliffs, landslides and mountain slopes
  • Slippery trail
  • Wind gusts - A route known for powerful wind gusts
Service on the trail
  • Restrooms
  • Garbage disposal
  • Campsite
  • Ranger
Finna má þjónustu á þjónustusvæðinu við Snorrastaði.
Lighting
Unilluminated
Period
Open all seasons
Eldborg is a typical crater that rises 60 meters above the surrounding lava and is the largest crater within short fissure. The crater is oval, above 100 meters in diameter and 50 meters deep. The walls are steep and made of ultra-thin layer of lava. Eldborg was declared protected natural monument in 1974. The trail up to the crater is diverse. Beautiful lava formations can be found on the way while walking. From the Crater's top it is possible to contemplate magnificent views in all directions, and specially if there is good weather conditions and good visibility, it is even possible to observe the fjords from the Snæfellsjökull Glacier, all the way to Reykjanes. The trail begins in Snorrastaðir's service area, where you can find accommodation along with facilities for groups, all sizes and types. The trail is composed with different surfaces but the majority of the trail is on lava substrate. When going up the Eldborg's hillside, it is possible to use chains that are available there to assist hikers going up or down.