Múlagljúfur Canyon

A Canyon Hidden in Plain Sight

Múlagljúfur lies just off Route 1 between Skaftafell and Hofn, yet most drivers pass without ever knowing it exists. There is no large sign, no visitor centre, and no tourist bus stop. Just a small gravel pull-off, a faint trail heading uphill, and one of the most spectacular canyon landscapes in Iceland waiting at the top.

The canyon was carved by meltwater from the Vatnajokull ice cap over thousands of years. Its walls are covered in thick green moss, waterfalls pour over the edges, and on a clear day the blue-white tongue of the glacier is visible in the distance. Photographers discovered it in the 2010s, and word has been spreading, but Múlagljúfur remains far less visited than the nearby Skaftafell trails.

The Hike

The trail begins at a small parking area near Hnappavellir, on the north side of Route 1. From the car park, the path climbs steadily through grassy hillside, gaining elevation quickly. The lower section is straightforward, following a worn path through low vegetation with increasingly dramatic views back toward the coast.

As you climb higher, the terrain becomes steeper and the trail less defined in places. Follow the cairns and worn path. After about 45 minutes, the canyon comes into view — a sudden, breathtaking reveal as the ground drops away into a deep, moss-covered gorge.

The Canyon

The viewpoint at the canyon rim offers one of the most striking perspectives in South Iceland. The walls plunge steeply on both sides, their dark basalt surfaces blanketed in vivid green moss. A waterfall drops from the far end of the canyon, its white thread of water contrasting with the green walls. Beyond the canyon, the landscape opens up toward the Vatnajokull glacier, with the ice tongue visible on a clear day.

There is no formal trail along the canyon rim, but careful hikers can follow the edge for different perspectives. Stay well back from the unfenced edges — the moss can be slippery, and the drop is severe.

Practical Notes

The parking area is small and can fill up during peak summer months. Arrive early or later in the afternoon for the best chance of finding a spot — and the best light for photography. The hike is exposed to wind and weather, so bring layers even on a sunny day. There are no toilets or water sources at the trailhead or along the trail.

Getting There

From Skaftafell, drive east on Route 1 for approximately 25 kilometres. The parking area is on the left (north) side of the road near the Hnappavellir area. From Hofn, the drive is about 100 kilometres west. The turnoff is easy to miss — use GPS coordinates to navigate to the correct spot.