Kerlingarfjöll, Iceland
Kerlingarfjöll is a breathtaking geothermal wonderland tucked away in Iceland's rugged highlands. This volcanic mountain range, which stands at 1,477 meters (4,846 feet), is renowned for its vibrant rhyolite peaks, showcasing striking mineral patterns, steaming geothermal vents, bubbling hot springs, and otherworldly landscapes that shift in shades of red, yellow, and green due to mineral deposits.
Vibrant rhyolite peaks are stunning geological formations renowned for their striking colors, produced by volcanic activity and mineral deposits. Geothermal areas are most beautiful in the sunshine when the geothermal colors become extra bright and vivid. The mountains display pink, yellow, green, and even purple hues due to the oxidation of minerals like iron and sulfur. These peaks create a stunning contrast against black lava fields, forming a surreal landscape that changes with the light throughout the day. The area is a paradise for hikers and photographers, offering trails through steaming geothermal vents, lava fields, and multicolored hills. These peaks are a must-see for anyone searching for a breathtaking natural wonder!
Mt. Kerlingarfjöll is a vast mountain range nestled between Langjökull and Hofsjökull, Iceland's second and third largest glaciers. The Mt. Kerlingarfjöll range is divided into two by the rivers Ásgarðsá and Kisa, creating the east and west mountains.
During my recent trip, I visited many of Iceland's geothermal areas. There's something otherworldly about hiking among boiling mud pools, hissing vents, and spouting geysers, not to mention the extraordinary geothermal colors. You will find one of the country's largest high-temperature geothermal zones in the Hveradalir geothermal area on Mt. Kerlingarfjöll in Iceland's highlands.
Several breathtaking spots exist in Iceland's highlands, and the Mt. Kerlingarfjöll area is undoubtedly one of the highlands' gems. In August 2020, this spectacular area (344 km²) was finally designated protected.
When I hiked through the geothermal area in Hveradalir, there were quite a few people around. I was somewhat concerned about their safety, hoping they all understood the importance of staying on the trails and not getting too close to the stunning geothermal colors to take better photos.
The ground here is unstable, rich in clay, and cannot withstand too much traffic. Therefore, ensure that you stay on the marked trails. Straying from the trails is extremely dangerous because you could easily step through the thin crust and into boiling water.
Moreover, avoid stepping on colored areas with deposits, as they are extremely hot!
The Hveradalir Geothermal Area is the heart of Kerlingarfjöll, where bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles create a surreal, almost Martian-like landscape. This area is a paradise for hikers, offering unmatched trails that wind through dramatic valleys and geothermal hotspots.
Visitors can enjoy the Kerlingarfjöll hot spring for a relaxing getaway, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and active steam vents. The area was once home to a summer ski resort, but now it serves as a highland retreat, providing accommodation and dining options for adventurers.
