Hike Distance
~3-4 km round trip
Short but steep — approximately 1-1.5 hours total
Múlagljúfur Canyon: Iceland's Hidden Moss-Covered Waterfall Canyon
A hidden gem of South Iceland — a lush moss-draped canyon with cascading waterfalls, tucked beneath the shadow of Öræfajökull glacier.
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Location
South Iceland
Near Öræfajökull, off Route 1
Múlagljúfur is one of Iceland's best-kept secrets — a stunning moss-covered canyon hidden just off the Ring Road in southeast Iceland. The canyon is fed by glacial meltwater from the Öræfajökull ice cap, with multiple waterfalls cascading down its vivid green walls. A short but steep hike leads to a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking the canyon, where a double waterfall drops into the lush gorge below. Despite its proximity to the Ring Road, Múlagljúfur remained relatively unknown until recent years, and it is now rapidly growing in popularity among hikers and photographers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in Iceland's glacier country.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
The trail is steep and can be slippery when wet. Wear proper hiking boots. Stay on the trail to protect fragile moss vegetation.
Sources to check
Feature
Moss & Waterfalls
Lush green canyon walls with cascading glacial waterfalls
Glacier
Öræfajökull
Fed by meltwater from Iceland's tallest volcano
What to Expect
Moss-Covered Walls
The canyon's walls are blanketed in vivid green moss, creating a lush, ethereal landscape
Double Waterfall
The main viewpoint reveals a stunning double waterfall dropping into the green canyon
Glacier Views
The nearby Öræfajökull glacier provides a dramatic backdrop to the canyon
Steep But Rewarding Hike
A short, steep climb leads to one of South Iceland's most spectacular viewpoints
Growing Popularity
Still a relatively hidden gem, though word is spreading — visit soon for a quieter experience
Ring Road Accessible
Located just off Route 1, making it easy to include in a South Coast or Ring Road itinerary
Getting There
Múlagljúfur is located in southeast Iceland, just off Route 1 between Skaftafell and Höfn, near the Hnappavellir area. Look for a small gravel turnoff on the north side of Route 1, roughly 330 km from Reykjavík (about 4.5 hours' drive). The unmarked gravel track leads about 1 km to a small informal parking area with space for 10-15 cars. The trailhead starts from the parking lot. From Skaftafell (Vatnajökull National Park visitor center), the drive is approximately 30-40 minutes east (40 km). From Höfn, it is about 50 minutes west (65 km). A regular 2WD car can reach the parking area in summer, though the short gravel access road may be rough. There are no facilities at the trailhead -- the nearest restrooms are at Skaftafell or fuel stations along Route 1.
Best Time to Visit
June through September is the best time to visit, when the moss is at its vibrant greenest and the trail is most manageable. July offers the lushest vegetation and warmest temperatures (10-14°C). August and early September often bring the best balance of good weather and fewer visitors. The waterfalls are fed by glacial melt from Öræfajökull, so they flow most strongly in July and August during warmer weather. The trail can be very muddy and slippery after rain, so check the forecast and pick a drier day if possible. May sees the canyon emerging from winter but moss may not yet be green. From October through April, the steep trail becomes icy and potentially dangerous, and limited daylight makes the hike impractical. Morning visits tend to have the best light for photographing the double waterfall at the viewpoint.
Planning help
Múlagljúfur Canyon FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.