Iceland day 3 - hiking the orange trail

Today was our big hike at Þórsmörk. We did the longer trail: Volcano Huts - Orange Loop, aka Tingfjöll circle trail. We bought poles as others had suggested and it was certainly a need. What an amazing hike! The views were just spectacular on top. But then on the descent, you get all new vistas. Totally worth the trip to Þórsmörk. 

At the top

We also spotted some lost sheep that didn't get brought home as part of the rettir. 

On the way down

such a magical place.

Iceland day 2

We got up early to catch the super bus to Þórsmörk in the Highlands. Why did we need a bus even though we had our own rental car? Well, the road is super rocky and include many (I counted 7) River crossings. The view driving in was amazing. It's the Iceland I saw in pictures and videos - absolutely magical and other worldly. 

crossing the river in the bus

We did the Þórsmörk panorama trail with an added plateau trail. The view was memorizing. I love seeing the glaciers and the jaggedy mountain formations. Everything is so raw nature. 

We stayed in the glamping tents of volcano huts. It was very cozy and convenient. 

Iceland day 1

We arrived at 8:30 am but didn't leave the airport until almost 10am since it took forever to get the car. 

First stop was Thingvellir National Park - the Continental divide between the American plate and the Eurasian plate. 

Then we climbed into and around the Kerið Crater

We stayed in an Airbnb outside of Selfoss. It was set amid in beautiful horse pastures. 

Even though the Aurora Borealis forecast was amazing - up to Kp of 6.33 - I was unfortunately in a super cloudy area and had no luck. 

Newfoundland Day 7

We did the Gros Morne mountain trail today, but just the lower part, not the summit. It was an ok trail, but so many bugs!!

The clouds were so cool, rolling in over the mountains. 

Dinner was at Chanterelles - restaurant associated with Sugar Hill Inn. Good, but not as good as Black Spruce.

Back on our deck for last evening in Newfoundland.