Glymur

Glymur - long one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, in a mossy gorge near Reykjavík

Difficulty 3/5 · ModerateDayLoopDay hike
Distance
~7 km loop
Max elevation
~200 m
Elevation gain
~350 m
Duration
3-4 h
waterfallgorgeriver crossingnear reykjavikloop
Explore the moss-covered volcanic landscapes of Iceland on this hiking trail.

The route

The line through Hvalfjordur, Iceland - waypoints, elevation and the day-by-day shape of the walk.

Season & conditions

Best season

Jun-Sep (river crossing seasonal)

Weather risks

Wind, rain, cold; slippery gorge

Best Jun-Sep; the log river crossing is removed in winter (making the far side inaccessible). Confirm.

On the trail

Terrain & surface

A gorge climb to a towering waterfall, with a log-and-cable river crossing

Technical & exposure

Non-technical walking/hiking; confirm any exposed or scrambly sections locally

Navigation & waymarking

Marked/waymarked route; navigation generally straightforward - carry a map and confirm locally

Accessibility & group fit

Suitable for reasonably fit hikers; not wheelchair accessible - confirm specifics

Crowds & solitude

A popular, well-known route - busier in peak season

Variants & turnaround

Do the loop when the log is in place; one-side out-and-back otherwise

Getting there & staying

Trailhead access

Botnsdalur, Hvalfjörður (near Reykjavík)

Shuttle & transport

Out-and-back/loop - no shuttle needed

Huts, camping & refuges

Day route - none needed

Gear, water & connectivity

Day-hike kit, water, sun/rain protection, sturdy footwear; coverage varies

Facilities

Services in Reykjavik; limited or none on the trail

Guide & crew

Not required; self-guided

Permits & safety

No permit; a cave and a log-bridge river crossing en route

Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.

Hazards

The log/cable river crossing, slippery steep gorge, wind

Emergency exits & rescue

Retrace the route to exit; dial local emergency services; carry a means of calling for help where remote

This profile is desk research, compiled from public sources - not a first-hand trail report. Coordinates are approximate.

Also in Iceland

Walk Glymur with your group
Manta plans the route, the huts and the easy alternatives so a mixed crew all get a great day.
Plan this hike