How warm is the river at Reykjadalur?

The bathing area in the hot river typically ranges from 35–40°C, though it varies with weather and recent rainfall. Cold tributaries mix with the geothermally heated water, so you can find your preferred temperature by moving along the river. Wooden boardwalks line the bathing section.

Do I need to bring a towel and swimsuit?

Yes, bring your own towel and swimsuit. There are no facilities at the river—no changing rooms, just the wooden boardwalk. Most people change at the riverside. A waterproof bag for your clothes is helpful as rain is common.

Is the Reykjadalur trail suitable for children?

The trail is suitable for active children who can manage a 7 km round trip with moderate elevation gain. The path is well-maintained but can be muddy. Keep children away from boiling mud pots and steaming vents along the trail—these are dangerously hot. The river bathing area is generally safe for children who can sit in the shallow water.

Can I hike Reykjadalur in winter?

The trail is accessible year-round but can be icy and slippery in winter. Crampons are recommended November through March. The river is warm enough for bathing year-round, making a winter soak particularly magical with snow-covered surroundings. Allow extra time and bring a headlamp for the short winter daylight.

Reykjadalur Trail: Hike to the Hot River

Hike to the hot river near Hveragerði in South Iceland

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

Difficulty

Easy

7 km round trip · 2–3 hours · South Iceland

Reykjadalur ("Steam Valley") is one of Iceland's most rewarding easy day hikes, combining gentle exercise with the unique prize of bathing in a geothermally heated river. The trail from the town of Hveragerði winds through a valley of steaming vents, bubbling mud pots, and boiling springs before reaching a section of river where hot geothermal water mixes with cold stream water to create the perfect bathing temperature. Wooden boardwalks line the riverbank, and on a clear day the combination of warm water, mountain views, and open sky is unforgettable.

Safety + sourcing

Last updated: 2026-02-01

Stay on marked trails. Geothermal areas have boiling water just below the surface—stepping off the path can cause severe burns. Keep children close and away from steam vents and mud pots.

Sources to check

Distance

7 km

Round trip from the Hveragerði trailhead

Elevation gain

~200 m

Gradual ascent along the valley floor

Duration

2–3 hours

Including bathing time in the hot river

What to Expect

Trail distance and elevation

7 km round trip from the Hveragerði trailhead with approximately 200m of gradual elevation gain. Difficulty rated easy. No technical skills required. Allow 2-3 hours including bathing time.

Terrain type

Well-maintained gravel and boardwalk trail. No river crossings required—the path stays on the valley's eastern slope. Some sections can be muddy after rain. Wooden boardwalks line the bathing area.

The hot river bathing area

The highlight: a section of river where wooden boardwalks let you change and slip into naturally heated water at 35-40°C. Find your ideal temperature by moving upstream (hotter) or downstream (cooler).

Geothermal features

Active mud pots bubble beside the trail with clay stained vivid yellow by mineral deposits (never touch—temperatures exceed 100°C). Steam vents, boiling springs, and a hot waterfall in a small canyon add drama.

Green valley scenery

Despite the geothermal activity, the valley is lush with grass and wildflowers in summer. The contrast between green hillsides and steaming earth creates a surreal landscape.

Proximity to Reykjavík

Hveragerði is just 45 km (45 minutes) from Reykjavík on Route 1, making this an easy half-day excursion. The town has public hot pots, geothermal greenhouses, and restaurants.

Getting There

The trailhead is on the eastern edge of Hveragerði, a town located 45 km southeast of Reykjavík on Route 1 (Ring Road). Take Route 1 east from Reykjavík and exit at Hveragerði; follow Breiðamörk street through the town and continue to the signed Reykjadalur parking area. Parking costs approximately 500 ISK and is paid via a machine or app. No 4WD required—road is paved throughout. Strætó bus route 51 runs between Reykjavík (Hlemmur) and Hveragerði, though the walk from the bus stop to the trailhead adds about 20 minutes uphill. The trail is well-marked and maintained with boardwalks in the bathing area.

Best Time to Hike

The trail is enjoyable year-round. June–August: Warmest air temperatures (10-18°C), up to 22 hours of daylight, wildflowers blooming, and the most comfortable bathing conditions; midday crowds peak in this period. September–October: Cooler air (4-10°C) makes the hot river contrast more dramatic; autumn colors; fewer visitors. November–March: Winter bathing with snow-covered hills is magical but the trail can be icy—crampons or spikes recommended; daylight limited to 4-7 hours; bring a headlamp. April–May: Spring thaw with increasing daylight; trail conditions variable. Early morning (before 10 AM) or late afternoon visits avoid the midday crowds that build up especially on summer weekends.

Planning help

Reykjadalur Trail FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

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