Múlagljúfur Canyon

Múlagljúfur is located in southeast Iceland, just off Route 1 between Skaftafell and Höfn, near the Hnappavellir area. Look for a small gravel turnoff on the north side of Route 1, roughly 330 km from Reykjavík (about 4.5 hours' drive). The unmarked gravel track leads about 1 km to a small informal parking area with space for 10-15 cars. The trailhead starts from the parking lot. From Skaftafell (Vatnajökull National Park visitor center), the drive is approximately 30-40 minutes east (40 km). From Höfn, it is about 50 minutes west (65 km). A regular 2WD car can reach the parking area in summer, though the short gravel access road may be rough. There are no facilities at the trailhead; the nearest restrooms are at Skaftafell or fuel stations along Route 1.

June through September is the best time to visit, when the moss is at its greenest and the trail is most manageable. July has the lushest vegetation and warmest temperatures (10-14°C). August and early September often bring the best balance of good weather and fewer visitors. The waterfalls are fed by glacial melt from Öræfajökull, so they flow most strongly in July and August during warmer weather. The trail can be very muddy and slippery after rain, so check the forecast and pick a drier day if possible. May sees the canyon emerging from winter but moss may not yet be green. From October through April, the steep trail becomes icy and potentially dangerous, and limited daylight makes the hike impractical. Morning visits tend to have the best light for photographing the double waterfall at the viewpoint.