Out to the classic overlook
The shorter option, and the one most people walk. Up the first hill, across the creeks, then a steady climb to the overlook where Hangandifoss and the canyon mouth line up with the sea behind you. Turn around there.
To main viewpoint
~4 km
Full route
6–7 km
Elevation gain
300–400 m
Time
2–4 hrs
Difficulty
Moderate
Shape
Out & back
Choose your route
Both routes start from the same car park and follow the same path for the first two thirds. The decision point is the main viewpoint.
On to Múlafoss and the glacier
Continue past the overlook to the upper viewpoints above Múlafoss, with Hrútárjökull filling the head of the valley. The reward is the half of the canyon most visitors never see. It includes one narrow, exposed passage.
The trail, stage by stage
-
1
Car park & first climb
From the lot the path crosses flat ground, then climbs a rocky hill where several braided routes have formed. Follow the worn wooden marker posts rather than the widest track — the shortcuts are what damage the ground.
4:3 — marker post
on the first hill -
2
The creek crossings
One or two streams to rock-hop, depending on flow. The water is rarely the problem; the approaches are slippery and everyone slows down here. In spring melt or after heavy rain, expect wet feet.
4:3 — stepping stones
at the crossing -
3
The climb
The trail steepens onto the ridge. This is where the elevation is earned, and where the canyon opens on your right — first as a slot, then as the whole gorge. Take the height slowly; the ground is loose in places.
4:3 — steep section,
canyon opening right -
4
Main viewpoint
Both falls in one frame, the canyon running out to the Atlantic behind you, birds working the updraft below. Most hikers turn around here, and it is a complete walk if you do.
4:3 — the classic
viewpoint frame -
5
The upper rim
Beyond the viewpoint the path narrows to a ledge before climbing to the Múlafoss viewpoints, with Hrútárjökull ahead. An unnamed fall drops near the end of the path, where the trail simply stops being a trail.
4:3 — narrow ledge
on the upper rimSafety noteShort exposed section; skip in high wind or with kids.
What to bring
Conditions & safety
This is not a groomed park trail. It is a natural path over roots, mud and loose gravel, and the canyon edges are unfenced with no barriers and no railings. Stay at least two metres back from any edge, especially where the ground is wet or undercut.
Weather flips fast on this coast. A calm car park can become a viewpoint you cannot stand up in — the gusts concentrate where the canyon funnels air. Check the forecast the morning you go, and turn around if it does not match what you were told.
Safety note
Unfenced edges throughout. Keep two metres back, keep children within reach, and do not step onto moss or overhanging ground for a photograph.
Winter
Strongly discouraged. The access road is unplowed, the exposed sections ice over, and there are only four to seven hours of daylight. Experienced, equipped parties only.
The map
Rated by hikers
4.9
★
From thousands of AllTrails reviews, without a single sign on Route 1.
Hikers keep calling it the best hike in Iceland.
A recurring line in the reviews