Best for
Geology lovers
Red clay strata run through the black basalt cliff.
Hengifoss Waterfall
A tall waterfall in Iceland at 128 meters, known for the red clay layers between black basalt in East Iceland.
Region
East Iceland
Near Egilsstaðir. Moderate hike.
Quick Answer
One of Iceland's tallest waterfalls, known for the red clay layers sandwiched between black basalt lava flows in the cliff face behind it. The trail up has wide views over the Fljótsdalur valley.
Sources and page update
Updated: 2026-09-10
The trail can be muddy, especially in spring or after rain. Wear good hiking boots.
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Official sources to check
Access
Uphill hike
2.5km each way, roughly 1.5 - 2 hours round trip.
Pro tip
Stop halfway
Don't rush past Litlanesfoss; it's worth a stop in its own right.
What to Expect at Hengifoss
- A steady uphill climb with benches to rest
- Views of Litlanesfoss (basalt columns) halfway up
- A close-up view of 5-6 million years of volcanic history
Nearby Attractions to Hengifoss
- Hallormsstaður Forest (Iceland's largest forest)
- Vök Baths (geothermal floating pools)
- Egilsstaðir (main town of the East)
How to Get to Hengifoss
- Located near Lagarfljót lake, about 35 km from Egilsstaðir
- Drive time from Egilsstaðir is approximately 30-40 minutes
- Free parking at the trailhead off Route 931
- The hike is 2.5 km each way with 300m elevation gain
- Well-marked trail with benches and rest stops along the way
Best Time to Visit Hengifoss
- Summer (June-August): Driest trail conditions and longest daylight
- Late morning or afternoon sun illuminates the red clay layers best
- Spring can be muddy, but the waterfall flow is strong
- Autumn brings fewer crowds and fall colors in the valley
- Do not enter the gorge beneath Hengifoss in winter: falling ice from the cliffs is a hazard
Choose a bank, then use the bridges
Trails run on both sides of the river. A bridge near the upper gorge and another by the parking area connect them, so crossing the stream is unnecessary for the main route. Litlanesfoss is about 1.2 km from the trailhead and makes a shorter turnaround. Ask at the service centre about current trail conditions before continuing higher.
Planning help
Hengifoss FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.
How tall is Hengifoss?
Hengifoss is 128 meters (420 feet) tall, a tall waterfall in Iceland. The cliff face has red clay layers (paleosols) between black basalt.
Is Hengifoss free to visit?
Yes, Hengifoss is free to visit. There is no entrance fee, and parking at the trailhead is also free.
Can you swim at Hengifoss?
No, swimming at Hengifoss is not possible. The pool at the base is shallow and the water is extremely cold.
How long is the hike to Hengifoss?
The hike is approximately 2.5 km each way (5 km round trip), taking about 1.5-2 hours total. The trail gains about 300 meters in elevation.
Is Hengifoss wheelchair accessible?
No, Hengifoss is not wheelchair accessible. The hike involves steep uphill terrain and uneven surfaces.
How hard is the hike?
The route begins with stairs and continues uphill on gravel. Visit Austurland estimates 40–60 minutes to Hengifoss each way. Steep, loose paths into the gorge are a separate undertaking; do not enter the gorge beneath the falls in winter because of falling ice.
Do I see other waterfalls?
Yes. About halfway up, you pass Litlanesfoss, which is surrounded by tall basalt columns. It's a two-for-one hike.
What are the red stripes?
The red layers are ancient clay (paleosols) formed between lava eruptions, during quieter periods when the surface oxidized.
Country reference: Iceland statistics.