Canonical URL: https://www.iceland.org/waterfall/barnafoss Content updated: 2026-09-10 This is the Markdown representation of the page. Interactive tools and forms are available on the [HTML page](). Source-check and review dates retain the meanings stated in the article. --- # Barnafoss (Children's Falls) Children's Falls, where blue glacial rapids churn through a narrow gorge in West Iceland. The name comes from a tragic local legend. Updated September 10, 2026 · [Published by Iceland.org]() · [Writing & review]() Region West Iceland Located next to Hraunfossar. ## Quick Answer Just a short walk upstream from Hraunfossar, Barnafoss ("Children's Falls") is a violent, churning rapid that forces the glacial Hvítá river through a narrow, twisted rock gorge. The river here is genuinely dangerous, and the falls carry a well-known local legend. Sources and page update Updated: 2026-09-10 Stay on marked paths. The rocks near the gorge edge are slick and unstable. The current is extremely powerful. For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy. Official sources to check - [Weather (IMO)]() - [Road status (road.is)]() - [SafeTravel alerts]() - [Environment Agency of Iceland]() Best for River power Watch the Hvítá force its way through the carved gorge. Access Easy walk Connected by path to Hraunfossar parking. Pro tip Look for the bridge A pedestrian bridge over the gorge gives a clear downward view. ## What to Expect at Barnafoss - A noisy, churning rapid compared to Hraunfossar's calm - Twisted rock formations and potholes carved by water - A safe pedestrian bridge crossing the gorge ## Nearby Attractions to Barnafoss - [Hraunfossar]() (immediate neighbor) - [Krauma Geothermal Baths]() (nearby in Reykholt) - [Deildartunguhver]() (Europe's most powerful hot spring) ## How to Get to Barnafoss - Located in Borgarfjörður, about 130 km north of Reykjavik - Drive time from Reykjavik is approximately 1.5-2 hours via Route 1 and 518 - Use the same free parking lot as Hraunfossar - A 5-10 minute walk from parking, or 2-3 minutes from Hraunfossar - Follow the well-marked trail connecting the two waterfalls ## Best Time to Visit Barnafoss - Open year-round; each season looks different - Spring snowmelt brings the most powerful water flow - Summer has the longest daylight for photography - Autumn birch colors contrast with the blue water - Winter brings ice formations, but paths can be slippery ## Reading the river from the viewing path From the pedestrian bridge, the conservation agency highlights the Hvítá squeezing into one main channel and the meeting of younger and older rock layers. Look for the river-cut arches and potholes from the defined viewing places. These visible erosion features are separate from the story about children and a lost bridge. The [conservation agency’s site guide]() confirms toilets, year-round ranger oversight and wheelchair access on part of the area. Use the defined paths and viewpoints; that partial accessibility description does not cover every route. Planning help ## Barnafoss FAQs Quick answers with safety notes where it matters. **How tall is Barnafoss?** Barnafoss is not characterized by height but by its violent rapids churning through a narrow rock gorge. The total drop through the gorge is approximately 5-7 meters. **Is Barnafoss free to visit?** Yes, Barnafoss is completely free to visit. There is no entrance fee, and parking is also free. **Can you swim at Barnafoss?** Absolutely not. Barnafoss is one of the most dangerous spots in Iceland due to the violent current. The river has claimed lives and swimming or entering the water is strictly prohibited. **How long is the walk to Barnafoss?** From the parking lot, Barnafoss is about a 5-10 minute walk. If coming from Hraunfossar, it's just 2-3 minutes along the connecting path. **Is Barnafoss wheelchair accessible?** The path from Hraunfossar to Barnafoss is mostly accessible with a well-maintained walking trail. The main viewing platforms are accessible, though some areas have uneven surfaces. **What does Barnafoss mean?** It means 'Children's Falls.' Legend says two children fell from a natural stone arch that once spanned the river. The grieving mother had the arch destroyed (or cursed it) to prevent future tragedy. **Is it safe to get close?** The viewing platforms are safe, but the river itself is violent and dangerous. Do not cross fences or try to get closer to the edge; the rock can be slippery and the current is deadly. **Why is the water so blue?** The Hvítá river is glacial, but in this section, it churns violently through a narrow gorge, which can aerate the water and mix in clear spring water. This gives the water its intense blue color. Country reference: [Iceland statistics]().