Stórurð
Extraordinary mountain basin of enormous boulders, turquoise pools and green meadows beneath the jagged Dyrfjöll peaks.
About Stórurð
Stórurð is one of East Iceland’s great natural attractions. Huge boulders lie scattered around grassy flats and clear blue-green pools below the sheer slopes of Dyrfjöll. Five marked routes approach the area from Vatnsskarð, Njarðvík and Borgarfjörður Eystri. Because Stórurð sits above 400 metres, snow commonly remains well into summer.
Our practical tips
✓Treat this as a proper hike, not a quick sightseeing stop.
✓Mid-July onwards is safer for most visitors because snow frequently lingers into summer.
✓Carry food, water and layers even if the weather is good at the trailhead.
✓Choose your route before setting off because there are several different approaches.
Getting there and visiting
Access
Stórurð can only be reached on foot. Five marked routes approach the area, with trailheads accessible from the Road 94 area.
Walking
Most return routes require roughly 4–5 hours of hiking; exact distance depends on the chosen trailhead.
Visit notes
The recommended season is generally from mid-July until the first significant autumn snow because snow lingers at this altitude.