Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
the mountain, which makes it difficult to find your way. A GPS is a must, as is a helmet,
plus crampons and an ice axe (and experience in using them).
From the Þorsteinsskáli hut, a marked trail runs to Herðubreið and you can then hike all
the way around it in a day. Herðubreið was once thought to be unclimbable, but it was
eventually scaled in 1908. Under optimum conditions you can climb the mountain in sum-
mer over one long day. The route to the top ascends the western slope. We don't want you
to get the wrong idea, however; this climb is demanding, and the threat of snow, rockfall,
landslide or bad weather makes it impossible to tackle without the proper mountaineering
gear. Don't go alone, prepare for foul weather, and it is imperative you discuss your inten-
tions with the wardens at Herðubreiðarlindir. Consider joining a tour; Fjalladýrð and Fjal-
lasýn can arrange this.
Drekagil
The name of the gorge Drekagil, 35km southwest of Herðubreið, means 'Dragon Canyon',
after the form of a dragon in the craggy rock formations that tower over it. The canyon
(behind the Ferðafélag Akureyrar Dreki huts) resembles something out of Arizona or the
Sinai; bitter winds and freezing temperatures just don't suit this desert landscape!
The Dreki huts (Askja Camp; 822 5190; www.ffa.is ;N 65°02.503', W 16°35.690';site/dm per
person Ikr1200/6500; mid/late Jun-early Sep) are an ideal base for a day or two of explor-
ing the area. Not only does the dramatic Drekagil ravine offer an easy stroll up to an im-
pressive waterfall, but you can also walk 8km up the marked trail to Askja. There is also a
marked 20km trail to the Bræðrafell hut. The Dreki huts sleep a total of 60, and there are
showers, a kitchen, an information centre and a summertime warden. Camping is also per-
mitted, but the wind and cold may become oppressive.
Free, ranger-led, one-hour hikes leave from the Askja car park at 1pm daily mid-July to
mid-August.
At Dreki the Gæsavatnaleið route (F910) turns off the Öskjuleið to cross some intimid-
ating expanses and connect with the Sprengisandur route at Nýidalur, some 125km away.
This involves a number of river crossings and is only for large vehicles.
 
Search WWH ::




Custom Search