Hiking Glymur Waterfall in Iceland

Glymur is the second-highest waterfall in Iceland, it only recently dropped to second place, however. It was only in 2007 that a larger fall was discovered. The waterfall is located about an hour from Reykjavik in Hvalfjordur.  It is a hike that should absolutely be on your must-see list.

If you have not had a chance to read about our full two-week trip to Iceland be sure to check it out!

The hike to the top of Glymur is about 1.5 hours in each direction. It’s a fairly difficult hike up to the waterfall. That being said, it is probably the most memorable hike I have taken on my travels and it’s worth every obstacle along the way.

You cross a bridge, and by “bridge” I mean a log stretched across the water. There is a wire across you can hold on to that makes the crossing a smidge safer. Assuming the river isn’t running hard it’s not too bad to cross. From there, there is a small cave you have to climb through.

I definitely recommend good, waterproof hiking boots. Some parts are very steep, they have ropes and chains to help you along but it can still be pretty intense. There was only one part that really tested my fear of heights though, almost turned back. But it’s Iceland… so no way, suck it up buttercup! 

While long and challenging, it’s very rewarding. There are so many spots to stop and catch the views of the vast countryside. We stumbled upon some wandering sheep while climbing in a cave and found some creek. There is so much to see. There are wood signs that point you in the right direction to the falls so you don’t have to get lost. 

Once we made our way to the top it was a sight to see for sure. The very top was so windy and so cold! We grinned and bared it for a quick photo (notice the pain on our faces) and headed back down.

There is a place near the top to cross a river and head down the other side. Due to the weather and cold, we opted to just go back down the way we came. It was pretty rainy the day we went. We ended up cold, muddy and wet but completely worth it. I recommend packing a poncho or a good rain jacket in case it rains so you will not be as wet as we were. 

Oh! There is no bathroom! This is important to note, as there isn’t really anywhere close by to stop either. I had to rough it over in a bush 🙈, so plan accordingly.  

I hope my photos and this post will convince you that a hike to Glymur is an absolute must-do in Iceland.

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