Kvernufoss

Most visitors to Skogar see Skogafoss, take their photos, and drive on. Just a few hundred metres east, hidden inside a narrow gorge called Kvernugil, Kvernufoss drops 30 metres over a basalt cliff face into a shallow pool — and almost nobody is there to see it.

Finding the Trail

There are no signs pointing to Kvernufoss. From the Skogar Museum car park, walk to the eastern end and look for a path heading along the left bank of the Kverna river. The trail leads through a grassy meadow before climbing gently into the mouth of the gorge. The entire walk takes about 15 to 20 minutes at a relaxed pace.

The gorge narrows as you approach. Moss-covered walls of black basalt rise on both sides, and the sound of falling water grows louder with each step. When the waterfall finally comes into view, framed by the dark rock walls and green moss, the effect is striking — far more dramatic than the modest trail suggests.

Walking Behind the Falls

Kvernufoss is one of a handful of Icelandic waterfalls where you can walk behind the cascade. A narrow path leads along the rock face and into a shallow cave behind the curtain of water. The view from behind — looking out through the falling water at the gorge beyond — is the highlight of the visit.

The path is uneven and wet. In summer, it is manageable with decent hiking boots. In winter or after heavy rain, the rocks become genuinely slippery, and ice can form on the surfaces closest to the spray. There are no railings or safety barriers. Use your judgement and watch your footing.

Why It Stays Quiet

Kvernufoss benefits from the shadow of its famous neighbour. Skogafoss is one of the top ten most visited sites in Iceland, drawing hundreds of visitors at peak times. Because there is no signage for Kvernufoss and the trail starts from the back of a museum car park, the vast majority of tourists never know it exists. Even in high summer, you may have the gorge entirely to yourself.

Practical Details

The hike is approximately 1.6 kilometres round trip with minimal elevation gain. It is suitable for most fitness levels, though the final stretch near the falls requires some scrambling over rocks. Waterproof boots are strongly recommended in all seasons. Allow about an hour for the round trip, including time to explore behind the falls and take photographs.

Kvernufoss pairs well with a visit to the Skogar Museum, which houses an excellent collection of Icelandic turf houses and historical artefacts. Together, the museum and waterfall make a worthwhile stop of two to three hours before continuing east along the south coast.