Trail Length
~3 km loop
Main loop takes 1-2 hours to complete
Hljóðaklettar (Echo Rocks): Twisted Basalt Formations in North Iceland
The "Echo Rocks" — a surreal landscape of twisted, spiraling basalt columns and hollow echo chambers in the heart of Jökulsárgljúfur canyon.
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Location
North Iceland
Vatnajökull National Park, Vesturdalur
Hljóðaklettar, meaning "Echo Rocks," is one of Iceland's most extraordinary geological formations. Located in the Vesturdalur area within the Jökulsárgljúfur section of Vatnajökull National Park, this site features basalt columns that twist, spiral, and radiate in patterns unlike anything found elsewhere in the country. While most Icelandic basalt forms neat vertical columns, the formations at Hljóðaklettar curve in every direction — the result of lava cooling under unusual conditions. Hollow caves and chambers within the rocks create remarkable acoustic effects, amplifying and bouncing sounds in unexpected ways, giving the site its evocative name.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
Stay on marked trails. Do not climb on fragile rock formations. The area is protected within the national park.
Sources to check
Formation
Twisted Basalt
Spiraling and radiating columns unlike typical basalt
National Park
Vatnajökull
Part of the Jökulsárgljúfur section of the park
What to Expect
Twisted Basalt Columns
Spiraling, curving, and radiating basalt formations unlike the typical straight columns found elsewhere
Echo Chambers
Hollow caves and recesses that amplify and bounce sound in remarkable ways
Kirkjan (The Church)
A large hollow basalt cave formation that is one of the highlight stops on the trail
Rauðhólar Extension
An optional extension to the Red Hills adds colorful volcanic craters to the hike
River Canyon Setting
Set within the dramatic Jökulsárgljúfur canyon along the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river
Geological Classroom
Interpretive signs explain the unusual volcanic processes that created these formations
Getting There
Hljóðaklettar is in the Vesturdalur area of Jökulsárgljúfur, part of Vatnajökull National Park. From Route 85 (the coastal road between Húsavík and Ásbyrgi), turn south onto Route 862, a gravel road that descends into the canyon area. Follow signs to the Vesturdalur parking area, which has basic facilities and a campsite. From Húsavík, the drive takes approximately 1 hour (65 km). From Akureyri, allow about 2.5 hours via Route 85 (180 km). The site is also accessible from the south via Route 862 from Dettifoss. The access road is typically open from early June through late September. A regular 2WD car can reach the parking area when the road is dry, though a 4WD provides more comfort on the gravel sections. No fuel is available in the park; fill up in Húsavík or Ásbyrgi before entering.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is from June through September when the Route 862 access road is open. July and August offer the warmest temperatures (10-15°C) and up to 20+ hours of daylight, perfect for combining the 3 km Hljóðaklettar loop with the longer Rauðhólar extension. Early June and late September provide quieter visits but cooler conditions and potentially unpredictable road status. The Vesturdalur campsite is open during summer months for those wanting to explore the area over multiple days. Combine with visits to nearby Ásbyrgi (30 minutes north), Dettifoss (45 minutes south on Route 862), and Selfoss for a full day or multi-day Diamond Circle trip. From October through May, the access road is closed and the area is inaccessible.
Planning help
Hljóðaklettar FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.