How long is the hike to Reykjadalur hot river?

The hike is approximately 3 km each way (6 km round trip) from the parking area near Hveragerði. The trail gains about 150 meters in elevation and takes roughly 45–60 minutes each way at a moderate pace. The path is well-marked and follows the valley alongside steaming vents and hot springs.

Is it safe to bathe in the Reykjadalur hot river?

Yes, the designated bathing area is safe for swimming. The river temperature varies along its length as hot geothermal water mixes with cold stream water. Move upstream for warmer water and downstream for cooler. Avoid the very hot tributary streams entering the river—these can be scalding. Stay within the areas where others are bathing.

Are there changing facilities at Reykjadalur?

There are no buildings at the bathing site, but wooden privacy screens have been installed along the riverbank for changing. Bring a towel and a bag for your clothes. There are restroom facilities at the parking area at the start of the trail but nothing at the river itself.

Can I visit Reykjadalur in winter?

The trail is accessible year-round, but winter conditions make it more challenging. Snow, ice, and shorter daylight require proper gear including microspikes or crampons, warm layers, and a headlamp. The bathing experience can be magical in winter with steam rising in cold air, but the hike takes longer and requires caution.

Reykjadalur Hot Spring River: Hike & Bathe in South Iceland

A geothermally heated river in a scenic valley near Hverager\u00f0i\u2014hike 3 km through steaming hillsides to soak in warm, flowing water.

Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team

Location

Hverager\u00f0i

South Iceland \u2022 45 km from Reykjav\u00edk

Reykjadalur (\u201cSteam Valley\u201d) is one of Iceland\u2019s most popular natural bathing experiences, located in the hills above the geothermally active town of Hverager\u00f0i in South Iceland. A well-maintained 3 km trail winds through a valley dotted with steaming vents, bubbling mud pots, and hot springs before reaching a section of river where geothermal water mixes with cold stream water at comfortable bathing temperatures. The experience of soaking in a warm, flowing river surrounded by green hillsides and rising steam is quintessentially Icelandic. Its proximity to Reykjav\u00edk\u2014just 45 km away\u2014makes it one of the most accessible geothermal bathing spots in the country.

Safety + sourcing

Last updated: 2026-02-01

Stay on the marked trail. Hot springs and mud pots along the path are scalding. Bathe only in the designated river area. Trail can be slippery when wet.

Sources to check

Hike Distance

3 km each way

Well-marked trail with ~150 m elevation gain, 45–60 min each way

Entrance Fee

Free

Open access year-round, parking at the trailhead

Region

South Iceland

Near Hveragerði, 45 km from Reykjavík

What to Expect

River Bathing (20-50°C)

Soak in a naturally heated river where temperatures range from 20°C downstream to over 50°C near hot tributaries. Find your ideal 38-40°C spot between the two

Scenic 3 km Valley Trail

Well-marked trail with 150 m elevation gain follows a valley with steaming hillsides, a small waterfall, and cascading streams. Takes 45-60 minutes each way

Free Admission

Completely free to visit year-round. No booking, no tickets. One of Iceland's best free natural attractions. Restrooms at the trailhead parking area only

What to Bring

Swimsuit (wear under clothes), towel, sturdy hiking shoes, water bottle, snacks, and water shoes for the rocky riverbed. No facilities at the bathing spot

Basic Privacy Screens

Small wooden screens along the riverbank provide minimal changing privacy. No permanent changing rooms, toilets, or showers at the river

Geothermal Trail Features

Hot springs, fumaroles, small mud pots, and a boiling stream line the trail. The geothermal activity on the hillsides around Hveragerði drives all the heating

Getting There

From Reykjavík, drive 45 km south on Route 1 to Hveragerði (about 45 minutes). In town, follow signs toward Reykjadalur -- the trailhead parking is at the end of a short road on the upper edge of town. The parking area has restroom facilities and an information board. The lot can fill up on summer weekends -- arrive before 10 AM. No 4WD needed. The nearest services (cafes, shops, fuel) are in Hveragerði town center (5 minutes by car). The 3 km trail begins immediately from the parking lot and is well-signed. Allow 2-3 hours total for the round trip including bathing time.

Best Time to Visit

Year-round. June through August: easiest hiking conditions with long daylight, green hillsides, and warmest air. This is also peak crowd season -- arrive before 9 AM or after 5 PM. September through October: autumn colors in the valley, fewer visitors, and cooler air that enhances the warm river experience. November through March: winter bathing is magical with steam rising dramatically against cold air and potential northern lights. The trail may be icy -- bring microspikes or crampons, warm waterproof layers, and a headlamp. April through May: trails drying out with returning daylight and moderate visitor numbers. Weekday mornings are quietest in every season.

Planning help

Reykjadalur FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

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