Askja Road in Iceland is one of Earth's most scenic trips

# Askja Road: Iceland's Ultimate Highland Adventure

Ready for one of Iceland's wildest rides? Askja Road is a 79km (49-mile) dirt track cutting through the remote central highlands of northeast Iceland, connecting Route 1 to Route 910. This isn't your typical Sunday drive—it's a serious adventure that demands respect.

First things first: you absolutely need a rugged 4x4 vehicle with solid clearance, and honestly, don't even think about going solo. Travel with at least one other car. The track itself is rough and unforgiving, with multiple river crossings over the Grafarlandsá and Lindá that can be downright sketchy—even impassable for smaller jeeps. The Icelandic Association for Search and Rescue specifically warns against attempting the Lindaá crossing in compact vehicles like a Suzuki Jimny or Toyota RAV4. Only well-equipped, larger jeeps should attempt it.

## The Views That Make It Worth It

Despite the challenges, the lunar-like landscape is absolutely stunning. The first 60km (37 miles) hugs the western side of the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river, offering sweeping, otherworldly vistas. About 40km in, you'll hit the Grafarlandaá ford—your first major water crossing. Push another 20km and you'll discover Herðubreiðarlindir, a gorgeous highland oasis bursting with moss, wildflowers, and natural springs. The iconic table mountain Herðubreið towers 6km to the west, creating an unforgettable backdrop.

History buffs will love the 5-minute walk to the remains of a tiny underground shelter where Iceland's most infamous outlaw, Fjalla-Eyvindur, supposedly survived the brutal winter of 1774-75 eating dried horsemeat and roots. Nearby, you can also detour through Hrossaborg, a 10,000-year-old crater with a collapsed wall creating a natural amphitheater.

Herðubreiðarlindir also serves as the starting point for the legendary Öskjuvegurinn, a grueling 5-day trek across some of Iceland's harshest terrain, reaching Askja's Drekagil hut by day two.

## Practical Essentials

The road only opens during summer months (late June through early September), and conditions can vary dramatically. Before you go, call 1777 or check www.road.is to confirm the route is passable.

**River crossing tips:** These aren't to be taken lightly. Never cross alone or during heavy rain. Engage 4x4 before entering, drive slowly, and avoid switching gears mid-river. Glacial rivers have less flow in the mornings—afternoons can be treacherous as melting increases water volume. If it looks too dangerous to wade through, don't drive through it. Cross diagonally with the current when possible. And remember: rental car insurance doesn't cover water damage.

**Don't forget:** Fill up on petrol before entering the highlands—there are no stations out there. Cell service is spotty, but you can call 112 (Iceland's emergency number) even without a signal. Tell someone your travel plans. Weather changes rapidly, so pack for anything. This route sees minimal traffic, so expect to be truly isolated.

**The bottom line:** This isn't a road for everyone, but for experienced 4x4 drivers ready for a genuine challenge, Askja Road delivers one of Iceland's most unforgettable highland experiences. Just respect it, prepare thoroughly, and never underestimate those river crossings.