Hvannadalshnúkur(아이슬란드의 최고봉). 아이슬란드(Iceland)

Hvannadalshnúkur(아이슬란드의 최고봉). 아이슬란드(Iceland)

Mt. Hvannadalshnúku

Öræfajökull Glacier is volcanic crater about 5 km in diameter, full of ice. Along its edges several peaks thrust out of the glacier, of which the northernmost is Hvannadalshnúkur, the highest mountain in Iceland (2110 m above sea level).

Two major volcanic eruptions have occured in Öræfajökull Glacier in historical times: the first in 1362 and the second in 1727. Öræfajökull is still an active volcano.

There are several well-known hiking paths up Hvannadalshnúkur, but the commonest trail is Sandfellsleid, which starts at the deserted farm Sandfell. Other trails include Hnappaleid and Kvískerjaleid but it is possible to take more difficult routes up to Hvannadalsshryggur Ridge, Virkisjökull or hike from Svínafellsjökull Glaceier along Svínakambur Crest.

When Hnappaleid is taken, you drive along a jeep trail just west of Hnappavöllur to an elevation of 1000 m, and from there you hike up Hvannadalshnúkur

Groups most commonly attempt to climb the mountain in the beginning of summer (April through the first part of July), for there is sufficient daylight then, and there is still a lot of snow in the glacier's fissures.

Most take Sandfell route with qualified quides who ensure the safety of mountain climbers. The hike takes 12-16 hours.

The first ascent of Hvannadalshnúkur was on 17 August 1891. Those in the ascent party were Þorlákur Þorláksson(Thorlákur Thorláksson), Páll Jónsson , Jón Sigurdsson and Frederick W.W. Howell. They went up from Sandfell.

Preparations:
It is important to rest, eat energy-rich food and drink sufficient water before starting. It is also important to eat and drink well at all rest stop to maintain the body's energy reserves.

It is also crucial to use strong sunburn and sun protection and sunglasses when walking in snow and sunshine. The weather can be considerably different at the peak than it is down below, and it is therefore necessary to prepare for winter conditions even though making the ascent at the height of summer. Do not over-dress at the start of the hike, but have protective clothing in the backpack.

It is best to hike at a very easy, slow pace and stop seldom for brief periods.

Safety:

Knowing how to find your way and read maps is necessary because there are few landscapes features, and the glacier has fissures in many places.

Hikers shall always walk in singel file on the glacier because snow can conceal deep fissures. It is a matter of life and death to know how to rescue yourself and your companions from fissures.

The minimum number for hiking on a glacier with fissures in 5-6 people.

Leave a detailed travel plan with someone.

Keep careful track of the weather forecast and do not trust it blindly.

It is best to go up the mountain with an experienced guide; the following parties organize ascents of Hvannadalshnúkur:

Öræfaferðir á Hofsnesi, www.hofsnes.com

Íslenskir fjallaleiðsögumenn, www.mountainguide.is

The Iceland Touring Association, www.fi.is, and Útivist Travl Association, www.utivist.is, also organize hikes up Hvannadalshnúkur in the spring.

Equipment:

Backpack 30-45L

Water-and wind-resistant, breathable clothing, pants and jacket

Warm clothing (long-armed pullover, hiking pants, hiking socks and fleece sweater)

Good hiking boots

Gaiters, sunglasses and sunburn and sun protection

Down parka/vest/Icelandic woolen sweater/thick fleece sweater

Cap and gloves/mittens

Map, compass and GPS receiver

Avalanche transceiver, shovel and avalanche probe

First-aid gear and second-skin blister/hot spot patches

Communications gear (radiophone, Tetra and/or satellite phone)

Rope, crampons, climbing harness and fissure-rescue equipment

Good, energy-rich food for a long day in the mountains

Drinks 2-3L. 1L of a hot beverage, e.g., cocoa or tea, is recommened.

Other possible beverages include energy drinks or fruit juice.

Adjustable hiking poles.

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