If you think adventure is dangerous, try routine, it’s lethal.
Paulo Coelho
Adventure through this breathtaking valley steeped with majestic scenery- Þorsmork, the Valley of the Thunder god, Thor.
The Epic Ever Changing Landscape of Þorsmork
Nestled between three glaciers Eyjafjallajokull, Myrdalsjokull, and Tindfjallajokull is the nature reserve of the Icelandic Highlands, Þorsmork. This gem has become a favorite of nature photographers, adventure seekers, and hikers and is one of my favorite destinations in Iceland.
Þorsmork’s unique landscapes are rich in contrasting vistas of lush oases, emerald-green mountain slopes, and roaring glacial rivers which snake through obsidian black sand. Due to recent efforts of volunteers, parts of the valley are now rich in fauna such as moss, fern, and birch. Surrounding the valley, jagged colossal sized mountains crown the horizon as snowy glaciers shine like diamonds. Due to the glacier activity, the landscape in Þorsmork, much like Iceland itself is always changing, and my last guide informed me this valley was once a lagoon before its first big eruption!
When you first enter the preserve, be on the lookout for the famous Eyjafjallajokull glacier to your right. This is the volcano that disrupted European air traffic in 2010 and is due for another eruption.
FOLKLORE AND MYTH
If you fancy Icelandic folklore there is plenty of that in this area, including a “troll church” you can hike to known as Tröllakirkja. This path takes you across some steep slides in Tindfjallagil and requires some caution. The church is a unique rock formation with a cave beneath it.
The valley itself was said to be formed by the Thunder god himself, when he struck his hammer known as Mjölnir down to create a deep depression known as Þorsmork.
If you’re lucky enough to hike the iconic 31 km Fimmvorðuhals trail, you will get an even closer look, as well as pass by Mogdi and Magni, two volcanoes named after Thor’s sons in Norse Mythology.
EXPLORE
þorsmork makes for an excellent place for experienced hikers and offers many options, both short and long to explore trails by foot. The two popular trails are Fimmvorðuhals and Laugurvegur. Fimmvoðuhals is a 31 km trail that connects þorsmork to Skogar and can be done as a day hike. I had a spectacular day hiking this trail with Midgard Adventure and will speak more about this experience on another entry. Laugurvegur is 55 km multi day hike that connects þorsmork to the surreal rhyolite mountains of another highland gem, Landmannalaugur.
Due to its location between the glaciers, þorsmork’s climate is warmer than the rest of the south, however you still need special considerations when traveling there. þorsmork is only accessible by 4 x 4 and includes several challenging river crossings. During winter months the road to the valley is impassable but not impossible to reach if you hire the right guide. There are numerous river crossings on the F road into the valley, the last and most dangerous being the infamous Krossa river which has claimed many rental cars. Please be sure to check your rental agreement before driving on any F roads in Iceland and consider hiring a guide for Þorsmork. It is well worth it to sit back and let the professionals do their thing while you enjoy the scenery!
I have been in þorsmork both in winter and summer months, and early fall and all experiences were breathtaking. Winter in Þorsmork is a winter wonderland with plenty of snow, sparkling glaciers, and majestic mountains. Summer offers the mildest climate and is the best month for hiking and spring is nice too, although be prepared for some icy sections.
For a day hike in Þorsmork I would suggest dressing in layers and packing all 10 hiking essentials. I always carry a rain jacket and pants in my day pack as a “just in case” as well as a wool sweater or down jacket as it can get chilly at the higher elevations.
RECOMMENDED GUIDE
I highly recommend setting up a tour with the nearby guiding company Midgard Adventure. Midgard Adventure offers both super jeep and hiking tours in þorsmork. I have been with Midgard Adventure four times and each has been a great experience. Their guides are safe, knowledgable, and fun and the company is known for its sustainability, which is important in a location with such delicate fauna. Another neat thing about going with Midgard is they always include a stop to a secret location on the way back such as a cave, canyon, or if you’re lucky an extra hike to the hidden falls. You can find more information about them here:
In conclusion if you are ready for an adventure to an off the beaten path place in Iceland with stunning scenery, Þorsmork is waiting.
