Litlanesfoss: Basalt Column Waterfall in East Iceland
Litlanesfoss is the basalt-framed waterfall on the way up to Hengifoss. Start at the Hengifoss parking area by Lake Lagarfljót. Do not navigate to Laugarfell for this walk: that is a different waterfall itinerary.
Choose your turnaround before you start
| Plan | Distance to use | What it involves |
|---|---|---|
| Litlanesfoss viewpoint | About 1.2 km uphill from parking | Stairs followed by gravel trail; allow for the return walk as well. |
| Continue to Hengifoss | About 5 km round trip | A longer ascent, with paths on both banks connected by bridges. |
Visit Austurland’s trail directions put Litlanesfoss around halfway up. Its combined waterfall guide describes a fall of roughly 25–30 meters framed by tall basalt columns. The longer route also reveals Hengifoss’s contrasting red rock layers.
Getting to the correct parking area
From Egilsstaðir, the regional directions offer two approaches: Route 931 on the west side of Lagarfljót, or Route 95 followed by Route 931 through Hallormsstaður on the east side. Both lead toward the lake’s far end and the Hengifoss trailhead. Check the route before departure rather than choosing a similarly named waterfall walk.
The maintained trail and the canyon are different terrain
The main route has stairs and gravel, with two bridges linking its banks. Paths down into the canyon are steep and loose; a closer view is not a necessary part of this hike. For the longer outing, note the regional authority’s winter warning: do not enter the gorge at the big falls because of falling ice. Ask at the trailhead service center about conditions when it is staffed.
See the Hengifoss guide to plan the full walk, or compare other hiking routes in Iceland.
Planning help
Questions before you go
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.
Where does the Litlanesfoss hike start?
Start at the Hengifoss parking area beside the road at the end of Lake Lagarfljót. Laugarfell is the starting point for a different waterfall outing.
How far is Litlanesfoss from the parking area?
Visit Austurland places Litlanesfoss about 1.2 km up the trail. The longer route to Hengifoss and back is about 5 km in total; these are different distances.
Is the trail step-free?
No. The described route begins with stairs, followed by an uphill gravel path. The canyon sides include steep, loose ground.
Can I enter the Hengifoss gorge in winter?
Visit Austurland says the gorge by the upper, larger waterfall is unsafe in winter because ice can fall from the cliffs. Check current trail information before setting out.
Compare Iceland’s basalt formations
Country reference: Iceland statistics.