Best for
Hikers & canyon views
The sheer depth of the canyon is dizzying and beautiful.
Glymur Waterfall Iceland: Complete Visitor Guide
Iceland's second-tallest waterfall at 198 meters. A rewarding 3-4 hour hike through caves and across rivers in West Iceland's Hvalfjordur.
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Region
West Iceland
Requires a 3-4 hour round-trip hike.
Once considered Iceland's tallest waterfall, Glymur is a majestic 198-meter cascade hidden deep in Hvalfjörður. Reaching it requires a rewarding hike through a cave, across a river log, and up steep paths, offering some of the most dramatic canyon views in the country.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
This page is for trip planning. The log crossing is seasonal (summer only). Do not attempt to cross the river if the water is high or the log is missing unless you are prepared to wade safely.
Sources to check
Access
Moderate hike
Steep sections, loose gravel, and a river crossing.
Pro tip
Bring hiking poles
They help significantly with the steep slopes and stability.
What to Expect at Glymur
- A physically active adventure (not a roadside stop)
- Walking through a small natural cave
- Crossing a river on a log with a cable handrail
Nearby Attractions to Glymur
- Hvalfjörður scenic drive
- Hvammsvík Hot Springs (perfect post-hike soak)
- Þingvellir National Park (45 min drive)
How to Get to Glymur
- Located at the end of Hvalfjörður, about 80 km north of Reykjavik
- Drive time from Reykjavik is approximately 1-1.5 hours
- Free parking at the Botnsá trailhead
- The hike is 7 km round trip with 400m elevation gain
- Allow 3-4 hours for the complete hike to the viewpoint and back
Best Time to Visit Glymur
- Late spring to early autumn (May-September) for log crossing access
- Summer offers longest daylight and driest trail conditions
- Weekday mornings are quieter than weekends
- Spring snowmelt increases waterfall flow dramatically
- Winter hiking is only for experienced hikers with proper gear
Planning help
Glymur FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.