Hafragilsfoss

North Iceland

Downstream from Dettifoss, the Jökulsá á Fjöllum continues through the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon before dropping over Hafragilsfoss — around 27–30 meters into a gorge flanked by dark basalt columns. The falls are far less visited than their upstream neighbor, which means genuine solitude and the canyon's full scale to yourself. The east bank approach via Route 864 gives the best views. The parking area near Sjónnípa hill sits on the canyon rim with sight lines both south toward Dettifoss and north toward the Hólmatungur wetlands. Hafragilsfoss lies about 2.5 kilometers south of Dettifoss; most visitors combine both in a single walk along the rim trail. The path is well-marked but expect uneven ground and mud after rain — allow an hour for the return walk plus time at the viewpoint. Route 864 is gravel but manageable without 4x4 in dry summer conditions. The west bank road (Route 862) closes in winter, making the east bank the reliable year-round option. No facilities at the falls, so bring water and layers — the canyon rim is exposed and wind can be sharp even in summer.

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