How long is Road F985 to Skálafellsjökull glacier?

How long is Road F985 to Skálafellsjökull glacier?

Iceland, europe

Length

17 km

Elevation

918 m

Difficulty

extreme

Best Season

Year-round

Hey adventurers, buckle up for the F985 (Jökulvegur) in Iceland's Eastern Region! This 17 km (10.56 miles) track winds its way from Highway 1 up to the majestic Skálafellsjökull glacier and Jöklasel Hut. Think hundreds of turns and some seriously steep climbs – this one's for 4x4s only.

Speaking of challenging, this famous F Road isn't for the faint of heart. It's a rough ride, perfect for adventure seekers, but maybe not so much for nervous drivers or anyone without a proper 4WD. Those hairpin bends and crazy inclines can be a real test! And definitely skip it on foggy days. Trust me, you don't want to be *that* tourist needing a rescue.

Reaching a whopping 918m (3,011ft) high, this road gives you insane views. Think lunar landscapes and a seriously bumpy ride. Keep in mind it's only open in the summer (usually late June to early September) – winter is a no-go. Plus, it's pretty remote, so driving solo isn't the best idea due to the lack of traffic and spotty cell service.

Oh, and did I mention you'll be driving through movie magic? Keep an eye out for filming locations from Batman Begins, James Bond, Tomb Raider, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, and even Game of Thrones! The glacier at the end is the ultimate reward, but the whole drive is an unforgettable experience.

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Road Details

Country
Iceland
Continent
europe
Length
17 km
Max Elevation
918 m
Difficulty
extreme

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