F335 (Hagavatnsvegur): Driving the rough track to Hagavatn lake
The F335, also known as Hagavatnsvegur, is a high mountain track located in the Southern Region of Iceland. This technical route runs for 16.6 km, starting from the paved Road 35 near Sandá and heading toward the glacial lake of Hagavatn. As one of the most demanding F-roads in Iceland, it crosses a lunar landscape shaped by the Eystry-Hagafellsjökull glacier.
| Road facts: F335 (Hagavatnsvegur) | |
|---|---|
| Location | Southern Highlands, Iceland |
| Length | 16.6 km (10.3 miles) |
| Surface | Loose dirt, large boulders, and ruts |
| Vehicle Required | Full-size 4x4 mandatory |
Where is the F335 Hagavatnsvegur road located?
The F335 Hagavatnsvegur penetrates the central Highlands, following the meltwater drainage of the Eystry-Hagafellsjökull glacier. The track ends at a mountain hut near the Hagavatn lake and the Nýifoss waterfall. This is a zone of total isolation with no service stations, inhabitants, or reliable mobile coverage. The roadbed is physically demanding, carved into a bumpy volcanic terrain where the absence of regular maintenance is evident in every kilometer.
Is a 4x4 mandatory for the F335 Hagavatnsvegur?
Yes. Driving the F335 Hagavatnsvegur in a small passenger car is impossible and dangerous. The track is characterized by large boulders, many deep ruts, and massive potholes. A 4x4 vehicle with high ground clearance is the only option to clear the irregular surface without destroying the underbody. The final section near the lake becomes a difficult dirt road where the vehicle will bounce and labor through heavy rock fields and steep, narrow ledges.
How dangerous are the river crossings on the F335 Hagavatnsvegur?
The F335 Hagavatnsvegur features several unbridged river crossings that require technical experience. These rivers are fed by glacial melt and can change their depth and flow rate rapidly due to rain or rising temperatures. You must never attempt to cross with a single vehicle or during heavy rainfall. Only well-equipped jeeps should enter the water; standard small SUVs are likely to stall. Remember that rental insurance in Iceland does not cover water damage from fording rivers on the F335 Hagavatnsvegur.
When is the F335 Hagavatnsvegur road open?
The F335 Hagavatnsvegur is only accessible during the summer months, typically from late June until early September. For the rest of the year, the track is impassable due to snow and glacial mud. Even in summer, the road is not recommended for nighttime driving, as the lack of light makes it impossible to judge the depth of the rivers or the ruts in the volcanic soil. The track is under no circumstances suitable for winter transit.
What mechanical prep is needed for the F335 Hagavatnsvegur?
Before leaving Road 35, you must verify your 4WD system and low-range gearing. The high-vibration environment of the F335 Hagavatnsvegur puts extreme stress on the suspension and steering components. Ensure you carry a full-size spare tire and a shovel, as passing traffic is very rare. Mechanical self-sufficiency is required; in case of a breakdown, professional recovery from the Highlands is slow and extremely expensive. Checking tire pressure and underbody bolts is mandatory before and after driving this route.