Hengifoss & Litlanesfoss

Why I recommend it

What makes this hike so good is that you do not just walk to one waterfall and turn around. Litlanesfoss appears first, framed by huge basalt columns that almost look carved by hand. Keep going and the landscape opens up towards Hengifoss, where the waterfall drops down a cliff made up of dark basalt layers separated by thin red bands of ancient clay. Those red layers are what make Hengifoss especially memorable. They formed between lava flows, so the cliff almost reads like a geological timeline of repeated volcanic activity. Hengifoss is also one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, dropping roughly 128 metres! The combination of the hike, two very different waterfalls and the geology makes this one of those stops that feels much more complete than a quick roadside viewpoint.

What to do

Hike all the way to Hengifoss. Litlanesfoss is already worth the effort, but do not stop there if the trail and weather allow it. Continue uphill and give yourself time to enjoy the changing views along the way. Take breaks at both waterfalls, especially at Litlanesfoss where the basalt columns are easy to miss if you are too focused on reaching the final viewpoint.

Good to know

This is a proper uphill hike, not a short flat walk, so wear decent shoes and expect to work for the view. Conditions can also change quickly. The trail can become muddy, slippery or icy depending on the season, and the upper section near Hengifoss can feel much colder and windier than the parking area. If the weather looks poor, do not force the last section just because you came this far. Litlanesfoss alone is already a beautiful stop.