Best for
Basalt columns
Unusually tall, straight, regular columns.
Litlanesfoss Waterfall
A 30-meter waterfall framed by tall hexagonal basalt columns, halfway up the Hengifoss trail in East Iceland.
Region
East Iceland
On the Hengifoss trail.
Quick Answer
Often overshadowed by its neighbor Hengifoss, Litlanesfoss cuts through exceptionally tall, straight hexagonal basalt columns that look almost like a pipe organ carved from stone.
Sources and page update
Updated: 2026-09-10
Part of the Hengifoss hike. Standard hiking precautions apply.
For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy.
Official sources to check
Access
Uphill hike
About 1.2km uphill from the parking lot.
Pro tip
Look down
From above the falls you can see far down the canyon.
What to Expect at Litlanesfoss
- Water cutting through geometric stone columns
- A natural resting spot on the way to Hengifoss
- Views down the valley towards Lagarfljót lake
Nearby Attractions to Litlanesfoss
- Hengifoss (continue 20-30 mins up)
- Skriðuklaustur (historical site nearby)
- Hallormsstaður (forest)
How to Get to Litlanesfoss
- Located on the Hengifoss trail, near Lagarfljót lake in East Iceland
- About 35 km from Egilsstaðir (30-40 minute drive)
- Free parking at the Hengifoss trailhead off Route 931
- Litlanesfoss is approximately 1.2 km up the trail (20-30 minutes)
- Continue another 1.3 km to reach Hengifoss if time allows
Best Time to Visit Litlanesfoss
- Summer (June-August): Best trail conditions and longest daylight
- Midday sun highlights the geometric patterns in the basalt
- Spring brings strong waterfall flow but muddy trails
- Autumn brings valley colors and fewer visitors
- Winter hiking possible but trail may be icy and slippery
A shorter walk on the Hengifoss route
Start at the Hengifoss service centre and follow the stairs and uphill gravel trail. The 1.2 km figure is the distance to Litlanesfoss, not the full Hengifoss walk. Stay on the trail to view the columns across the gorge; the paths down into the canyon are steep and loose. Anyone continuing to Hengifoss in winter should stay out of its upper gorge because of falling ice.
Planning help
Litlanesfoss FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.
How tall is Litlanesfoss?
Litlanesfoss is approximately 30 meters (98 feet) tall. It is known less for its height than for the hexagonal basalt columns that frame the waterfall.
Is Litlanesfoss free to visit?
Yes, Litlanesfoss is free to visit. There is no entrance fee. It is located on the same trail as Hengifoss, with free parking at the trailhead.
Can you swim at Litlanesfoss?
No, swimming at Litlanesfoss is not possible or safe. The waterfall cascades into a rocky gorge below.
How long is the hike to Litlanesfoss?
Litlanesfoss is about 1.2 km from the parking lot (approximately 20-30 minutes uphill). It's located about halfway along the trail to Hengifoss.
Is Litlanesfoss wheelchair accessible?
No, Litlanesfoss is not wheelchair accessible. The trail involves uphill hiking on uneven terrain.
Where is Litlanesfoss exactly?
Litlanesfoss is about 1.2 km uphill from the Hengifoss parking area. It is a useful turnaround if you want to see the basalt columns without continuing to the higher Hengifoss gorge.
Why are the columns hexagonal?
Basalt columns form when lava cools and contracts. The cooling process creates cracks that naturally form hexagonal shapes, similar to drying mud.
Can I get close for photos?
The best view is from the trail across the gorge. The columns frame the waterfall well from there. Climbing down into the gorge is not recommended and can be dangerous.
Country reference: Iceland statistics.