The Mývatn Marathon on the outskirts of Reykjahlíð offers more than a race; it’s an encounter with one of Iceland’s rawest landscapes. Stretching approximately 42 kilometers, this route challenges runners and hikers with a terrain that’s as diverse as it is demanding—lava fields that crunch underfoot, dusty volcanic paths, and gentle ascents that reward you with panoramic views of Lake Mývatn. Elevation gain is moderate, roughly 300 meters over the course, enough to test your stamina without exhausting your spirit.

As you set out near the small town of Reykjahlíð, the environment feels alive. The earth beneath shifts and breathes with geothermal energy, steam vents daring you to press forward. The rhyolite hills in the distance carry an intense color, sharply defining the horizon. Passing through flatlands dotted with wildflowers, the trail also dips close to the lake, where swans patrol the water as if timing your progress. The Mývatn Marathon isn’t just about moving forward—it’s about reading this fiercely honest landscape, responding to its rhythms.

This course suits both serious marathon runners, eager to push through Icelandic elements, and adventurous hikers ready to cover distance with purpose. The ground varies from hard-packed volcanic ash to loose stones, demanding sturdy footwear with solid traction. Expect occasional chilly winds that cross from the lake, reminding you that nature commands respect here.

Timing your run or hike is key. Early summer months bring long daylight and moderate temperatures—perfect for hydration and pace control. Hydration stations are sparse, so carry adequate water and electrolyte supplies. Dress in breathable layers, ready for shifts from sun to a sudden Icelandic drizzle.

Nearby, Reykjahlíð provides accessible accommodations and meals, ideal for refueling after the effort. Local geothermal pools beckon, their warm waters easing tired muscles, and offer a quiet moment under an expansive sky.

Planning this adventure means balancing excitement with preparation. Pack lightweight windproof gear, your hydration pack, and navigation aid devices—GPS or trail maps. Respect the volcanic environment by sticking to marked paths; the landscape heals slowly.

Whether running or hiking, the Mývatn Marathon stakes a claim on your endurance alongside an uncapturable spirit of Iceland’s geological heart. It’s straightforward in distance, but this marathon is charged with the feeling of moving through an untamed, ancient presence that watches you as much as you watch it.