Hike to Hengifoss

Hengifoss Track, Iceland

5.0/5

based on 1 reviews

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Details

Distance

3.1 miles

Elevation Gain

984.3 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Elyse Clark

This is a short hike to two unique waterfalls near Egilsstaðir. One waterfall is Litlanesfoss, which is characterized by columnar basalts, and the other is Hengifoss, a 128 m (420 ft) waterfall with layered rock and oxidized iron layers.

From Egilsstaðir, take the Ring Road (Highway 1) towards Fellabær. Turn left onto Road 931 directly after the bridge crossing of Lake Lagarfljot. Drive 35 km until you see the parking area on the right side of the road after an intersection on your left.

At the parking area is a bathroom, and the trail starts at the fence in the back of the lot. The trail is steep and ascends some stairs. Along the trail you will pass through two more gates and over two streams (there are bridges).

After 1.2 km from the parking lot, you will come to Litlanesfoss, a small plunge waterfall flanked by columnar basalts (similar to Svartifoss). The trail gets steeper from here, until you reach a view of Hengifoss and an information sign at 2.2 km. To get to Hengifoss from here, continue on the trail to the left of the river and cross the small stream. The trail terminates near the base of Hengifoss with great views of the falls.

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Reviews

Joana Bates

Hike to Hengifoss

08/20/17

IF you are willing to go a little bit further to get nearer to the base of the waterfall. It's beautiful if you aren't and it really is a fun hike -- but if you're tempted and you don't mind being just a weeee bit more adventurous it is so worth the scare of possibly falling and hurting yourself on the rocks, but in no way am I telling you to be unsafe. Just go with a buddy and make sure you're prepared. It's the summer right now and I've had a cold. We went early and four hours later of deliberating which is the best route we were victorious. Be safe though. There were a few paths that we attempted and decided to go back and around to be cautious. The base of Hengifoss is absolutely stunning.

5.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Hike to Hengifoss

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Leave No Trace

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Stuðlagil Canyon

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