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When road-tripping through West Iceland along Ring Road, the Stóra-Grábrók Crater Hike was one of my favorite stops!

The hike is short and manageable, but the views from the top are massive! You’re literally standing on the rim of a volcanic crater with panoramic views of lava fields and the surrounding Grábrókarhraun landscape.

Here is everything you need to know about hiking the Stóra-Grábrók Crater!

Stóra-Grábrók Crater Hike

We pulled off the Ring Road near Bifröst, and within minutes, we were climbing the wooden stairs that led straight to the crater’s edge.

If you are driving Ring Road, check out my Iceland Ring Road Itinerary: 41 Stops, Optional Add-Ons + Map!

It felt like stepping into another world.

The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, making this a great stop even if you’re just stretching your legs between bigger destinations.

I recommend checking out the trail on AllTrails before starting. Here is a summary.

Trail Details (According to AllTrails):

• Length: 1.5 km (about 0.9 miles) round trip
• Elevation Gain: Around 90 meters (295 feet)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Type: Out & back with loop options around the crater rim
• Time to Complete: About 30–45 minutes, depending on your pace and how many photos you stop to take

A Bit of History

First, let’s talk about the history of the area!

Stóra-Grábrók is the largest of three craters in the Grábrók volcanic fissure system, formed about 3,000 years ago during a volcanic eruption.

The eruption also created the surrounding lava field known as Grábrókarhraun, which stretches out dramatically around the base of the crater.

Today, moss and small trees grow over the ancient lava, giving the whole area an eerie, almost otherworldly look.

Fun fact: this region is protected as a natural monument, so no climbing off trail or rock collecting – it’s all about preserving the landscape for future visitors.

My Experience Hiking Stóra-Grábrók

This was our first hiking stop since landing in Iceland just 24 hours earlier. And after spending a night at the Blue Lagoon, my body was rested and ready to take on the challenge!

You can read all about my stay at Blue Lagoon! Silica Hotel Iceland Review: My Stay Near the Blue Lagoon!

We lucked out with good weather – sunny skies and just a light breeze, which made the short hike even more enjoyable.

After parking, we followed the wooden staircases for a true uphill challenge. There are benches built in for those who need to take a rest along the way.

I am not going to lie, it’s a lot of stairs, and you will feel your heart pumping.

Once we reached the top, I couldn’t stop taking photos. You get a full 360-degree view of the crater, lava field, and even the Snæfellsnes Peninsula on a clear day.

We walked around the dirt trail on the top, which brings you along the crater.

It felt like one of those moments where nature just takes your breath away.

There’s also a smaller crater nearby called Litla-Grábrók, and while we didn’t climb that one, you can spot it easily from the top of the main trail.

If you have extra time, it’s worth exploring the full loop around both.

Next, we continued our drive to Akureyri!

Read my picks for the Top Things to Do in Akureyri: Hot Springs, Hot Dogs & More

Tips for Visiting Stóra-Grábrók Crater

• There’s a small parking lot right at the base of the hike, just off Route 1.
• No bathrooms or facilities, so plan ahead.
• Bring layers – even in summer, the wind at the top can be strong.
• Wear sturdy shoes with a good grip. The gravel can be slippery.
• Sunrise or sunset hikes are especially beautiful if you time it right.

After our hike, we continued north toward Akureyri and Húsavík, making a well-earned stop for an Icelandic hot dog along the way.

Read all about my time in the North, including this Husavik Whale Watching: Iceland’s Best Tour with North Sailing

Where Is The Stóra-Grábrók Crater Hike?

The hike is located right off of Ring Road in Western Iceland!

Explore More of Iceland

The Stóra-Grábrók Crater Hike is one of the best short hikes in Iceland!

Especially if you’re into volcanoes, lava fields, and dramatic scenery without the commitment of a long trek.

It’s absolutely worth pulling over for. Whether you’re headed to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula or exploring the north, don’t skip this one.

If you are driving Ring Road, check out my Iceland Ring Road Itinerary: 41 Stops, Optional Add-Ons + Map!

Driving the Diamond Circle? Read my Diamond Circle Iceland Itinerary: Top Things to See & Do (2025)!

If you are looking for puffins, you have to visit Borgarfjörður Eystri: The Best Place to See Puffins in Iceland.

From here, we headed to the North to do Husavik Whale Watching: Iceland’s Best Tour with North Sailing.

Check out my Silica Hotel Iceland Review: My Stay Near the Blue Lagoon.

We also had dinner at the Lava Restaurant at Blue Lagoon: A Look Into My Dining Experience

Want to read more of my Iceland Travel Guides?

Read all of my Europe Travel Guides!