I slept very well and woke up rested and ready to tackle the trail ahead. I got myself and the tent packed up, and was on the trail just before 8 am. Most of the other people were apparently sleeping off their late night.

Þorsmörk to Emstrur
15 km

I hiked through the birch forest, climbing in elevation, then dropping, and finally reaching the river Pronga. I had been told that this river required a ford so I took off my hiking boots, stripped down to shorts, put on my sandals, and waded across. It was fast, but not too deep. I reached the other side, took advantage of the break for a quick snack, re-dressed, and started hiking again. No sign of the late sleepers yet.

For the next couple of hours, the trail climbed and dropped, passing through a variety of different landscapes.

After several hours, the trail dropped steeply to the river Syðri-Emstruá, nicely supported with a walkway and a chain to grip -- but this time it felt very secure and safe. Crossed the bridge, continued up the other side, also with the assistance of a chain to grab, and the continued the ascent with a slog up a scree chute between two mountains.

Soon I could see the huts of Emstrur in the distance. I pitched my tent alongside a creek not too far from the huts.

Signs at the Emstrur hut information board ... Evacuation instructions in case of a volcanic eruption

After I arrived and got settled, I changed into my sandals and took a recommended walk to the Markarfljótsgljúfur canyon. It was indeed spectacular.

The last sound I heard before I fell asleep was the creek, and soft voices of people in nearby tents.