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Rauðauga Hike

By François · updated in June 202506/2025My rating

Key facts about the hike

Difficulty
Easy Hikes are rated from very easy to very hard: my difficulty scale
Duration
3h30 Estimated time, short breaks included (photos, water, snacks), picnic not included: how it is calculated
Distance
9.2km
out and back
Elevation gain
340m
Type of route
Out and back
Maximum altitude
800 m
Vertiginous Five levels, depending on how exposed the route is: the levels in detail
No
Marked
Yes
Popularity
Low
Region
Highlands
Start point
64.03356, -19.34644
Activity
Hiking

Hike overview

The Rauðauga hike leads to one of Iceland's most fascinating natural wonders: the Red Eye, the mysterious source of the Rauðfossakvísl River. The water's high iron content has stained the riverbed and waterfalls a distinctive rusty red color.

This enchanting place, which is still largely unknown, is located in the heart of the Highlands, in the Fjallabak Nature Reserve. Here, you will discover Rauðfoss, an impressive 60-meter-high waterfall, cascades, and a red river winding through the landscape.

Map and elevation profile of the hike

Rauðauga Hike

Difficulties of the hike

Although few hikers walk this trail, it is carefully maintained and marked. The hike is easy, mostly flat, and free of technical difficulty. It's an experience not to be missed if you're in the Landmannalaugar area.

What you'll love

  • The spectacular Rauðfoss waterfall: This 60-meter waterfall has a unique rust-red color.
  • Arriving at Rauðauga, a crystal-clear spring that literally bursts out of the ground like a red eye with magical reflections.
  • A preserved, peaceful route: Far from the busy Highlands, this hike offers a real sense of solitude and adventure.

Practical information

Access

Only possible in summer via the F208 North or F225 roads. A 4WD vehicle is mandatory on Icelandic F-roads.

The F208 North road is recommended because it does not cross any rivers, and all 4WD vehicles can handle it. However, the F225 crosses several small rivers and requires a medium-sized or larger vehicle. See the Driving in the Highlands section for more information.

View from the Rauðauga parking lot
View from the Rauðauga parking lot
Rauðfoss
Rauðfoss
Fjallabak
Fjallabak
Fjallabak
Fjallabak
Rauðfossakvísl river
Rauðfossakvísl river
Rauðauga waterfall
Rauðauga waterfall
Rauðauga waterfall
Rauðauga waterfall
Rauðauga
Rauðauga
Rauðauga
Rauðauga
Rauðauga
Rauðauga
Rauðauga drone shot
Rauðauga (drone shot)
Rauðauga drone shot
Rauðauga (drone shot)
Rauðauga drone shot
Rauðauga (drone shot)
Rauðfossakvísl
Rauðfossakvísl
Rauðfoss
Rauðfoss

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Printed from www.horizonrando.fr/en/iceland/raudauga/