Hverfjall Crater

Overview

Hverfjall (also known as Hverfell) is a perfectly formed tephra crater that dominates the eastern shore of Lake Mývatn in North Iceland. This near-circular volcanic formation, measuring 1,040 metres in diameter and rising 463 metres above sea level, was created during a violent eruption approximately 2,500 years ago when groundwater met ascending magma, producing the explosive phreatomagmatic activity that carved out this distinctive crater.

The volcano stands as one of Iceland's most accessible and photogenic geological features, offering visitors a rare opportunity to walk along the complete rim of a major volcanic crater. From its summit, the panoramic views encompass the entire Mývatn region, including the lake's pseudo-craters, lava fields of Dimmuborgir, and the steaming geothermal areas of Námaskarð Pass. The crater's walls drop 140 metres to a flat floor covered in birch scrubland, whilst the exterior slopes are mantled in loose volcanic tephra that supports sparse vegetation adapted to the harsh volcanic soils.

Hverfjall represents a textbook example of a tuff ring formation and serves as an important geological reference point for understanding explosive volcanism in Iceland. The crater remains volcanically active, though dormant, and forms part of the larger Krafla volcanic system that extends across the Mývatn region.

Quick Facts

**GPS Coordinates:** 65.6011°N, 16.8697°W

**Entry Fee:** Free

**Opening Hours:** Accessible 24 hours (lighting conditions permitting)

**Best Time to Visit:** May to September for optimal conditions

**Difficulty Level:** Moderate (steep initial ascent, then easy rim walk)

**Nearest Town:** Reykjahlíð (8km southwest)

**Rim Walk Distance:** 2.8km circular route

**Elevation Gain:** 140 metres from parking area

**Walking Time:** 40-60 minutes for complete rim circuit

How to Get There

Driving

From Reykjavík, drive northeast on Route 1 (Ring Road) for approximately 470km (5.5-6 hours). Pass through Akureyri and continue for 100km to the Mývatn region. Take the turnoff for Route 848 towards Reykjahlíð, then follow signs for Hverfjall. The crater car park is located directly off Route 848, approximately 8km northeast of Reykjahlíð village.

From Akureyri, the journey covers 100km (1 hour 15 minutes) eastbound on Route 1, then south on Route 848 for the final approach to the crater.

Parking

A designated gravel car park sits at the western base of Hverfjall, directly accessible from Route 848. The facility accommodates approximately 50 vehicles and includes basic facilities such as an information board and waste bins. Parking is free of charge. During peak summer months (July-August), the car park may reach capacity by midday, particularly on clear days when visibility is optimal for rim walking.

Access

The ascent path begins immediately from the car park's eastern edge, marked by a wooden signpost. The initial climb covers 400 metres horizontally whilst gaining 140 metres in elevation over loose volcanic scree. The path is clearly defined but steep, requiring sturdy footwear with good grip. Allow 15-20 minutes to reach the crater rim from the parking area.

What to See and Do

The primary activity at Hverfjall involves walking the complete crater rim, which takes 40-60 minutes depending on pace and photographic stops. The rim path is generally level once the initial ascent is completed, though it remains narrow in places with steep drops on both sides.

The northeastern section of the rim provides the most dramatic views across Lake Mývatn, encompassing the lake's numerous pseudo-craters and the broader Mývatn wetlands that support significant birdlife during summer months. The eastern rim offers perspectives towards the active geothermal area of Námaskarð Pass, where steam plumes are visible on clear days.

From the southern rim, visitors can observe the extensive Dimmuborgir lava formations and the broader Krafla volcanic system. The western approach provides views back towards Reykjahlíð village and the lake's main body.

The crater floor, 140 metres below the rim, supports low-growing birch scrubland and serves as a shelter for arctic foxes, though wildlife sightings are uncommon due to the exposed nature of the terrain. Descent into the crater is possible but not recommended due to loose scree and the absence of marked paths.

Photography opportunities are exceptional throughout the rim walk, particularly during golden hour conditions in early morning or late evening when the volcanic landscape is dramatically lit.

Best Time to Visit

**May-June:** Optimal conditions with extended daylight hours, stable weather, and fewer crowds. Snow may persist on northern-facing slopes until mid-May.

**July-August:** Peak season with warmest temperatures but highest visitor numbers. Car park typically fills by midday on clear days. Best conditions for wildlife observation in surrounding areas.

**September:** Excellent visiting conditions with autumn colours in birch vegetation and reduced crowds. Weather becomes more variable with increased precipitation likelihood.

**October-April:** Challenging conditions due to ice, snow, and limited daylight. The crater remains accessible but requires winter hiking experience and appropriate equipment. High winds are common during winter months, making rim walking potentially dangerous.

Weather can change rapidly year-round, with wind being the primary concern for rim walking safety. Visibility can be severely reduced during fog or low cloud conditions.

Safety

The primary hazard involves the steep, loose scree on both the ascent path and crater rim edges. The rim path is narrow in several sections with significant exposure to steep drops. High winds are common and can create dangerous conditions, particularly for inexperienced hikers.

The volcanic tephra surface becomes slippery when wet, increasing slip risk during or after precipitation. Proper hiking boots with ankle support and aggressive tread patterns are essential.

Weather conditions change rapidly in the Mývatn region. Fog can develop quickly, reducing visibility to metres and making rim navigation treacherous. If fog develops during the rim walk, remain stationary until conditions improve.

Mobile phone coverage is generally reliable from the crater rim but may be limited within the crater floor. Inform others of your intended return time before beginning the hike.

Winter access requires mountaineering experience due to ice and snow conditions that can persist into May on northern aspects.

Nearby Places

**Dimmuborgir Lava Formations** (6km southwest): Dramatic lava pillars and caves formed by volcanic activity 2,300 years ago, featuring marked hiking trails through otherworldly rock formations.

**Námaskarð Pass** (8km east): Active geothermal area with bubbling mud pools, fumaroles, and sulphur deposits, accessible via boardwalks and marked paths.

**Grjótagjá Cave** (4km south): Small lava cave with geothermal hot spring, famous for its crystal-clear blue water and connections to popular culture.

**Lake Mývatn Nature Baths** (12km southwest): Geothermal lagoon featuring naturally heated waters rich in minerals, offering a more intimate alternative to the Blue Lagoon.

**Krafla Geothermal Power Station and Víti Crater** (15km northeast): Active geothermal area with guided tours of the power station and hiking access to the Víti explosion crater containing a turquoise lake.

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