Overview
A 12-hour guided ascent of Skessuhorn in West Iceland, pairing a long approach hike with a roped climb of the north-west ridge.
Guests meet in Borgarnes, or arrange pick-up, and continue to Skorradalur. The approach to the foot of the mountain takes three to four hours over swampy ground and rock, with a few small rivers to cross. Guides hand out helmets, harnesses, ropes and carabiners at the base and lead the harder sections in 15 to 30 metre pitches, so guests climb on top rope throughout; the ridge itself takes two to three hours.
The route is graded challenging and takes a full day on foot, and booking is for ages 13 and over. On the descent the guide decides between the ordinary walking trail and abseiling back down the ridge. Climbing gear and guiding are covered by the ticket; warm and waterproof clothing, hiking boots, a 20 to 30 litre backpack and food and water for the day are not, and guests bring their own.
