Best for
Hikers & canyon views
The falls drop into a deep, narrow canyon.
Glymur Waterfall
Iceland's second-tallest waterfall at 198 meters, reached by a 3-4 hour hike through a cave and across a river in West Iceland's Hvalfjordur.
Region
West Iceland
Requires a 3-4 hour round-trip hike.
Quick Answer
Long considered Iceland's tallest waterfall, Glymur is a 198-meter cascade at the end of Hvalfjörður. Reaching it means hiking through a cave, across a river log, and up steep paths along the rim of a deep canyon.
Sources and page update
Updated: 2026-09-10
This page is for trip planning. The log crossing is seasonal (summer only). Do not attempt to cross the river if the water is high or the log is missing unless you are prepared to wade safely.
For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy.
Official sources to check
Access
Moderate hike
Steep sections, loose gravel, and a river crossing.
Pro tip
Bring hiking poles
They help significantly with the steep slopes and stability.
What to Expect at Glymur
- A proper hike (not a roadside stop)
- Walking through a small natural cave
- Crossing a river on a log with a cable handrail
Nearby Attractions to Glymur
- Hvalfjörður scenic drive
- Hvammsvík Hot Springs (good post-hike soak)
- Þingvellir National Park (45 min drive)
How to Get to Glymur
- Located at the end of Hvalfjörður, about 80 km north of Reykjavik
- Drive time from Reykjavik is approximately 1-1.5 hours
- Free parking at the Botnsá trailhead
- The hike is 7 km round trip with 400m elevation gain
- Allow 3-4 hours for the complete hike to the viewpoint and back
Best Time to Visit Glymur
- Late spring to early autumn (May-September) for log crossing access
- Summer has the longest daylight and driest trail conditions
- Weekday mornings are quieter than weekends
- Spring snowmelt increases the waterfall's flow
- Winter hiking is only for experienced hikers with proper gear
Check the crossing before committing to a loop
Visit West Iceland gives roughly three to four hours for the hike and explicitly warns about dangerous winter conditions. A summer route description does not establish that its river crossing is available today. Plan a turnaround if the crossing or gorge path is unsuitable, and leave enough daylight to retrace your route.
Glymur is on Botnsá, which drains Hvalvatn above the gorge. That river-and-lake setting helps explain why the destination is a substantial hike from Botnsdalur, rather than a waterfall reached by driving to its rim.
Planning help
Glymur FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.
How tall is Glymur?
Glymur is 198 meters (650 feet) tall, Iceland's second-tallest waterfall. It was long considered the tallest until Morsárfoss was discovered in 2007.
Is Glymur free to visit?
Yes, Glymur is free to visit. There is no entrance fee, and parking at the trailhead is also free.
Can you swim at Glymur?
No, swimming at Glymur is extremely dangerous due to the powerful waterfall, deep canyon, and cold water temperatures. It is not permitted.
How long is the hike to Glymur?
The hike to Glymur is approximately 7 km round trip (about 3-4 hours total). It involves a river crossing, a cave passage, and steep sections with elevation gain.
Is Glymur wheelchair accessible?
No, Glymur is not wheelchair accessible. The hike is moderate-to-difficult with steep terrain, loose gravel, and a river crossing on a log.
How hard is the hike to Glymur?
It is a moderate-to-difficult hike. It involves a steep ascent, loose gravel, a cave passage, and crossing a river on a log (summer only). It takes 3-4 hours round trip.
Is the log crossing always there?
Do not assume the seasonal crossing is installed. Confirm its current status before choosing a route that depends on it. If the crossing is absent or unsafe, turn back; wading is not a routine substitute. Visit West Iceland warns that winter conditions require proper equipment and hiking experience.
Can I hike to Glymur in winter?
It is possible but dangerous. The path gets very icy, the log is gone, and the steep sections require crampons. Only experienced winter hikers should attempt it.
Country reference: Iceland statistics.