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Content updated: 2026-09-10

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# Hljóðaklettar (Echo Rocks): Twisted Basalt Formations in North Iceland

Updated September 10, 2026 · [Published by Iceland.org](<https://www.iceland.org/about-us>) · [Writing & review](<https://www.iceland.org/editorial-policy#credits>)

Hljóðaklettar’s short walk and full circuit have different difficulty grades. If you want to see the Echo Rocks without committing to the longer loop, look for V2 on the park map.

## Choose a numbered trail

[Vatnajökull National Park’s Hljóðaklettar page](<https://www.vatnajokulsthjodgardur.is/en/areas/jokulsargljufur/hljodaklettar>) lists V2 to Tröllið at 1.2 km, V3 around the rocks at 3 km, and V4 to Rauðhólar at 5 km. The last figure is the route’s total distance, not an extra 5 km to add to V3. Check the numbered route on the trailhead map before following a junction.

## Look for the remains of volcanic conduits

The park explains that floods stripped loose material from an ancient crater row, exposing rock that solidified within volcanic conduits. Look at how the columns change orientation across the formations, then listen for the river’s sound reflected by the rocks. The roughly 6 km length sometimes given for the crater row describes the landform, not a walking circuit.

## Getting to Vesturdalur

The park places Hljóðaklettar about 15 km south of Ásbyrgi and describes paved road access. Use its current destination map and [road conditions](<https://umferdin.is/en>); a summer date alone does not establish that every approach is open.

If you are planning several days here, the [Jökulsárgljúfur guide](<https://www.iceland.org/canyons/jokulsargljufur>) covers the longer canyon walk linking Ásbyrgi and Dettifoss.

Planning help

## Questions before you go

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

**Which is the shortest Hljóðaklettar walk?**

The park lists V2, Hljóðaklettar–Tröllið, as 1.2 km, about 30 minutes and easy. Follow the signed route and current restrictions.

**Is the full Echo Rocks loop easy?**

The park grades the 3 km V3 circle as challenging and estimates 1–1.5 hours. The longer V4 Rauðhólar route is 5 km and also challenging.

**Can I walk off the path to photograph the rocks?**

No. The park prohibits walking outside the marked paths at Hljóðaklettar and Rauðhólar to protect the vegetation.

[Explore Iceland’s canyons](<https://www.iceland.org/canyons>)

Country reference: [Iceland statistics](<https://www.iceland.org/statistics>).