Skógá Waterfall Way
Key facts about the hike
- Difficulty
- Moderate Hikes are rated from very easy to very hard: my difficulty scale
- Duration
- 5h30 Estimated time, short breaks included (photos, water, snacks), picnic not included: how it is calculated
- Distance
- 15.7km
- out and back
- Elevation gain
- 650m
- Type of route
- Out and back
- Maximum altitude
- 605 m
- Vertiginous Five levels, depending on how exposed the route is: the levels in detail
- Slightly
- Marked
- Yes
- Popularity
- Moderate
- Region
- South
- Start point
- 63.52830, -19.51225
- Activity
- Hiking
Hike overview
The Skógá Waterfall Way begins at Skógafoss, one of Iceland's most iconic waterfalls. It then heads upstream through spectacular scenery dotted with more than twenty waterfalls (25 according to some sources. I invite you to count them!). This route is the first part of the famous Fimmvörðuháls trek, and allows you to quickly escape the crowds at Skógafoss and enjoy Iceland's tranquil natural landscapes.
With its green-walled canyon, distant views of the Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers, and an uninterrupted succession of waterfalls, this hike is one of the most beautiful in southern Iceland.
Map and elevation profile of the hike
Skógá Waterfall Way
Difficulties of the hike
This hike follows the well-marked Fimmvörðuháls trail from Skógafoss Waterfall and back. Although the route does not present any particular technical difficulties, its length should not be underestimated.
What you'll love
- A succession of spectacular waterfalls: More than twenty waterfalls line the route, each with its own unique character.
- A wild and magnificent canyon: The trail winds along a stunning green canyon.
- The grand finale: a magnificent double waterfall, one of the most impressive on the route.
- Tranquility regained: While thousands of visitors flock to Skógafoss every day, only a tiny fraction venture beyond it.
Practical information
Parking
There is a large paid parking lot at Skógafoss (indicative price in 2025: ISK 1,000 or €7 per car).
Shorter option
If you're short on time, most of the waterfalls are within the first three kilometers. Turning back at this point reduces the hike to a six-kilometer round trip with a 300-meter elevation gain. However, I encourage you to continue to the end. The canyon is magnificent, and the last waterfall is one of the most beautiful on the route.
Photos
See all 25 photos →
More hikes to do in Iceland
Nearby hikes
Printed from www.horizonrando.fr/en/iceland/skoga-waterfall-way/