Landmannalaugar - Blahnukur #1

John did some extensive research (surprising, I know!) before we went and chose the Blahnukur hike for us to do. I don't think he could have chosen better. The hike had everything you would want - steep gradients, incredible views, snow to cross, some scrambling, a stream crossing, and lava fields, just to name a few. It drizzled/rained a bit at the beginning, but then the weather cleared. We didn't get the iconic photos that most people want when in the Highlands, but wow, was it gorgeous. We were literally speechless at some points along the hike. There are no words to describe the colours and views. And even if the weather had been perfect I don't think the pictures would really do it justice. The area has to be seen to be appreciated. Be prepared for a LOT of photos.

Blahnukur Hike: I believe we hiked about 6 miles with an elevation gain of about 500m.

The way up, a little steep

We eventually cross that snow.

Looking down on Landmannalaugar, notice the switchbacks!

At the top of the first climb

Not only did John do all the driving, he carried my knapsack everywhere. 

The greens are so green here.

Crossing some snow.

Wildflowers that look so much like thrift.

Sulphur steam - stinky

The greenness

The edges of the snow were sculpted. 

Waterfall across the valley

The stream we had to cross. Yay for Gore-Tex shoes. 

I loved this triangle. The edges are so sharp.

Stream bed

How red/orange some of the rocks are

How blue/green some of the rocks are. When you see this you realize why the mountains are the colours they are. 

Porous rock

Split rock

Hole in the dirty snow

We climbed through extensive lava fields on the way back to Landmannalaugar.