Litlanesfoss waterfall is not a very large waterfall. However, it is still recognized as one of the stand-out falls in the country because of the incredible geological formations that flank it and form its cliff. The waterfall and even the river bed are entirely formed by basalt columns, making it look like a scene from Game of Thrones.
The upside is that you get to see this waterfall while hiking toward Hengifoss, so you don’t have to go out of your way for a smaller, albeit spectacular waterfall on the far-east side of Iceland. The waterfall has two drops, and it is only 30 meters (98 feet) tall.
What are the Tourist Activities for Litlanesfoss Waterfall?
The primary tourist activity in this area is the hike to Hengifoss which includes sites of Litlanesfoss. The hike is moderately strenuous, but still a good hike for families. Touring around Lagarfljot Lake is another nearby tourist activity. The lake is infamous for its worm-like lake monster, similar in the legend to Loch Ness.
What are the Hotels for Litlanesfoss Waterfall?
Most of the accommodation options for Litlanesfoss are at the northeastern edge of the lake. These include Hotel Valaskajalf, Lake Hotel Egilsstadir, Hotel Eyvindara, and the Icelandair Hotel Herad.
What are the Facts about Litlanesfoss Waterfall?
Litlanesfoss also goes by Studlabergsfoss. This secondary name translates to Basalt Column Falls for obvious reasons. The basalt columns that frame either side of this waterfall can be up to 20 meters (65 feet) tall. That height is not only almost as tall as the waterfall itself, but also means the waterfall contains some of the tallest basalt columns in the country.
When you hike up to Hengifoss, Litlanesfoss is quite hidden. You will need to go slightly out of your way to see the waterfall. You can walk close to the rim of its gorge if you want to see the waterfall up close, although we recommend using caution when doing so.
Can you Drive to Litlanesfoss?
You can drive to the parking lot for the Hengifoss waterfall on the west side of Lagarfljot lake. However, you will have to park and walk the rest of the way to the waterfall. Typically, the whole hike will take an average of an hour and a half to go there and back, part of which is quite steep.
Is there a National Park for Litlanesfoss Waterfall?
The closest national park to the Litlanesfoss Waterfall is Vatnajokull National Park. This national park is very large, but the waterfall still lies outside its technical boundaries. To drive from Litlanesfoss waterfall to the southern entrance of the park, you will need to return to Route 1 and drive four and a half hours southwest.
Which Canyons are Connected to the Litlanesfoss Waterfall?
Litlanesfoss waterfall does fall into a sort of basalt canyon, but this flattens out quickly and doesn’t have a specific name. Instead of a canyon, the waterfall forms a unique rock choir, over which the water forms an apron across the cliff.
Which Rivers are connected to the Litlanesfoss Waterfall?
The Hengifossa river feeds both the Hengifoss and the Litlanesfoss waterfalls. Litlanesfoss is just a little further down the river’s route.
