Kárahnjúkar Highland Route (F910)
Highland route to Europe's largest hydroelectric dam
The F910 cuts across Iceland’s eastern highlands to Kárahnjúkar, Europe’s most controversial hydroelectric project carved into pristine wilderness. This remote track crosses the Vatnajökull National Park buffer zone, threading between glacial rivers and ancient lava flows. The route passes Hafrahvammagljúfur canyon before reaching the massive Kárahnjúkavirkjun dam complex, where engineering meets raw Nordic landscape in stark contrast.
Moderate difficulty with long stretches of gravel and some loose rock sections requiring high clearance and good ground clearance. Standard 4WD capability handles most conditions, though weather can deteriorate rapidly at elevation. Open July through early October, with fuel and supplies only available at route ends. The isolation is complete — expect no cell service and plan for self-rescue scenarios. Rewards patient drivers with access to Iceland’s most remote inhabited valley and controversial glimpses of industrial development in untouched highlands.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Gravel |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 56 mi / 90 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 2460 ft |
| Best season | July-September |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Egilsstaðir, Iceland |
| Land manager | Icelandic Environment Agency |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | road.is |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Land Cruiser or 4Runner handle the F910, or do I need a lifted rig?
A stock high-clearance 4WD is the minimum — think Land Cruiser, 4Runner, or Defender with factory ground clearance. Lifted rigs aren't required, but the river crossings and loose volcanic gravel sections will punish anything with low clearance or open differentials.
When does the F910 actually open each year and is July safe?
The F910 typically opens late June to early July depending on snowmelt, but conditions vary year to year — check road.is before you go, not a travel blog. July through September is the reliable window; snow and ice can close it without warning outside those months.
Do I need a permit or pay any fees to drive the F910?
No permit is required to drive the F910, but Highland roads (F-roads) in Iceland are legally restricted to 4WD vehicles — driving them in a 2WD is illegal and voids your insurance. There are no entry fees, but rental agreements almost universally prohibit F-road driving, so read the fine print if you're in a rental.
What's the hardest section and what should I actually expect?
The river crossings are the most serious challenge — Iceland's glacial rivers run fast, cold, and can change depth after rainfall with zero warning. Scout every crossing on foot before committing; the gravel track itself is moderate, but water is the real variable here.
How far is the nearest fuel from the F910 and should I carry extra?
Egilsstaðir is the last reliable fuel stop before heading into the highlands — it's roughly 56 miles from the trail's end, and there is nothing in between. Carry a jerry can with at least 10–15 liters of extra fuel; the route is 90 km of remote highland driving with no services whatsoever.
Trail track
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