Eldborg Crater hiking trail
Eldborg is a typical crater that rises 60 meters above the surrounding lava and is the largest crater within short fissure. The crater is oval, above 100 meters in diameter and 50 meters deep. The walls are steep and made of ultra-thin layer of lava. Eldborg was declared protected natural monument in 1974.
The trail up to the crater is diverse. Beautiful lava formations can be found on the way while walking. From the Crater's top it is possible to contemplate magnificent views in all directions, and specially if there is good weather conditions and good visibility, it is even possible to observe the fjords from the Snæfellsjökull Glacier, all the way to Reykjanes.
The trail begins in Snorrastaðir's service area, where you can find accommodation along with facilities for groups, all sizes and types. The trail is composed with different surfaces but the majority of the trail is on lava substrate.
When going up the Eldborg's hillside, it is possible to use chains that are available there to assist hikers going up or down.
- Area: Hnappadalur, Borgarbyggð
- Road number to the starting point: Snæfellsnesvegur (nr. 54), Snorrastaðir
- Level of difficulty: Easy, however it should be noted that there are lot of high steps on the way
- Length: 6.64km / 4.12 miles
- Elevation: 50-100 meters / 164-328 ft.
- Markings: Little markings on the way
- Duration: Approx. 1 hour and 27 minutes
- Route type: Small and large rocks, lava and mulch substrates
- Obstacles on the way: There are a lot of steps to find on the way / it can be difficult to find the way
- Services in the area: A toilet is available on the way and trash can be deposited in Snorrastaðir service area
- Illumination: Part of the route is illuminated, from Snorrastaðir until the beginning of the trail
- Season: The hiking trail is open all year round
- GPS coordinates starting- and finishing point: N64°46.4456 W022°18.1262
