Driving the paved but narrow Road 42 to Vatnsskarð
Vatnsskarð is a mountain pass at an elevation of 200 meters (656 ft) above sea level, located on the Reykjanesskagi peninsula in southwest Iceland. The journey through this pass is dominated by Road 42, a route that has undergone a significant transformation from an infamous gravel track to a fully paved surface. However, despite the new asphalt, the physical reality of the drive remains technical and high-consequence. Running directly along the edge of Kleifarvatn, the largest lake on the peninsula, the road forces drivers to manage tight margins between jagged volcanic rock walls and the cold, deep waters of the lake.
| Road facts: Vatnsskarð (Road 42) | |
|---|---|
| Location | Reykjanes, Southwest Iceland |
| Elevation | 200m (656ft) |
| Length | 26.3 km (16.3 miles) |
| Surface | Recently paved (formerly gravel) |
How difficult is the drive through Vatnsskarð?
The 26.3-kilometer journey on Road 42, running from Hafnarfjörður to the southern coast, is a test of precision rather than off-road skill. As seen in the lakeside sections, the asphalt is narrow and lacks a proper shoulder. On the stretch that runs along Kleifarvatn, you are driving near the water level, where the road is squeezed against the cliffs. The lack of space means that if you meet a large furgoneta or a transit truck coming the other direction, you have to be extremely careful with your positioning. The road features several steep ramps that, while paved, require constant attention to your speed and braking, especially when the wind kicks up from the open lake surface.
What are the main hazards on Road 42 along Kleifarvatn?
The primary hazard at Vatnsskarð is the exposure to the elements and the unforgiving geography. High-frequency lateral winds are common in this part of Iceland, and on Road 42, these gusts hit the vehicle sideways as you skirt the lake. Because the road was built over the old gravel track, it follows the natural contours of the rock, resulting in blind curves and sudden dips. In winter, the pass is a high-risk zone for snow accumulation and black ice. Even though it is a paved state road, it can be closed anytime if the snowplows cannot keep up with a storm. The lack of safety barriers in the lakeside sections makes any slip or skid potentially catastrophic, as there is nothing to stop a vehicle from sliding into the water.
What mechanical prep is needed for the Vatnsskarð crossing?
Before leaving Hafnarfjörður, verify that your tires have excellent wet-grip ratings. The weather near Kleifarvatn shifts rapidly, and the new asphalt can become incredibly slick. Check your lights and wipers; the shadows cast by the volcanic cliffs can make visibility tricky even during the day. On the steep ramps leading up to the 200-meter summit, ensure your engine is running cool, as the constant shifting and low-speed segments in the narrow parts put extra load on the cooling system. Carry extra water and a warm kit, because if you suffer a mechanical failure in the middle of the pass during a winter squall, you are in a high-isolation sector where the cold is unrelenting.