Hike

Hiking the Godafoss Loop Trail is the perfect way to experience its beauty up close!

The Godafoss waterfall hike is short but rewarding, allowing you to admire the cascade from multiple vantage points on either side of the Skjálfandafljót River.

Planning to view the waterfall? Visit our Godafoss Waterfall home page for the complete rundown on every single detail!

Godafoss Waterfall Trail Overview

• Difficulty: Easy
• Distance: 2.7 km (1.7 miles) out & back
• Time Required: 45–60 minutes
• Elevation Gain: Minimal (mostly flat with a few gentle inclines)

Trailhead

You can start the hike from either the east side or west side of Godafoss, and the trail starts from the parking lots on either side.

Trail Route (from the West Bank)

West Bank Viewpoints (Main Lookout & Lower Path)

Starting from the west bank parking lot (which is the main Godafoss parking), take the short, well-defined path to the primary viewing platform.

This is the classic picture postcard view, and you get to see this majestic cascade in all its glory, as the water plunges 39 feet (12 meters) down a wide, horseshoe-shaped cliff spanning 98 feet across (30 meters).

A lower path descends slightly toward the riverbank, where you can feel the misty spray against your face, and appreciate the sheer power of the waterfall from below.

The rocks may be slippery, so be cautious.

Crossing the Skjálfandafljót River

Follow the trail to the pedestrian crossing bridge, that allows visitors to walk from the one side of the river to the other to view the waterfall from either side.

In winter, you can see chunks of ice floating along the river.

East Bank Viewpoint

The east side of Godafoss is usually quieter, and a more secluded trail takes you an alternate vantage point.

You can view the basalt rock formations and you get views of sections of the falls that are hidden from the west bank viewpoint.

Nature photographers often gravitate to a location here, from where you can capture wide-angle landscape shots of Godafoss, and you’ll see some patiently waiting for sunset.

Return to the Starting Point

The trail loops back toward the footbridge. Keep an eye out for Arctic terns and whooper swans, especially in winter.

Visitor Tips

• Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes, especially if you hike the lower path along the river bank.
• Bring layers, weather is unpredictable and winter is very cold.
• The east side is great for sunrise snaps, while the west side is better for sunset photos.

• A restaurant and cafe is available on the east side for snacks and coffee.