Is the gravel Road 953 (Mjóafjardarvegur) in Iceland dangerous?
Road 953 (Mjóafjarðarvegur) is a legendary gravel track located in the Eastfjords of Iceland. Known for being one of the steepest and most isolated routes in the country, it leads to the tiny village of Mjóifjörður and the remote Dalatangi Lighthouse.
Running along the northern shore of Mjóifjörður—often called the wildest fjord in the region—this road is a true test of nerves. The route is carved into steep cliffs with the roaring North Atlantic Ocean directly below. It is a journey reserved for those who don't suffer from vertigo, offering breathtaking views of deep blue waters and untouched glacial vales.
| Road facts: Road 953 (Mjóafjarðarvegur) | |
|---|---|
| Location | Eastfjords, Iceland |
| Length | 45.9 km (28.5 miles) |
| Max Gradient | 18% |
| Season | Summer only (Closed in winter) |
| Surface | Gravel / Narrow |
How difficult is the drive on Road 953?
The road is an extraordinary piece of engineering, but it requires slow and careful driving. It is a winding gravel road that is only open during the short Icelandic summer. The track is notably narrow and features extreme sections with gradients up to 18%, especially during the descent into the fjord. Along the way, you will drive past the magnificent Klifbrekkufossar waterfalls, which tumble in multiple tiers right alongside the road. Due to the loose gravel and the sharp turns, 4WD vehicles are highly recommended.
Where does Road 953 lead?
The journey spans 45.9 km (28.5 miles) and ends at the Dalatangi Lighthouse, which was the first lighthouse ever built in Iceland. The drive offers unparalleled views overlooking the river mouths of Loðmundarfjörður and Seyðisfjörður. Because the road is so technical and isolated, driving at night or in poor visibility (common in the Eastfjords) is not recommended. This is a road trip for photographers and adventurers who want to experience the rawest side of Iceland's coast, far away from the busy Ring Road traffic.