Skógafoss - Iceland's must do waterfall hike

Intro

Skógafoss is one of Iceland's most iconic waterfalls. You'll find that every blog or tourist flyer will tell you to make a stop at the waterfall. It even got featured in the hit series "Vikings". The waterfall also marks the start (or end) of the long distance hiking route Fimmvörðuháls. If you don't have the time to walk the whole route, trust me when I say it is worth doing this part of it. For me, this was one of the biggest surprises on my trip to Iceland. Skógafoss is very impressive, but this route will also take you to an array of beautiful waterfalls higher upriver.

About the trail

There is a big parking (as well as a camping) in front of the waterfall. This area is often very busy as Skógafoss is a popular stop along the icelandic ring road (R0). However, as is often the case in iceland, walk a bit further along the trail and it will be a lot less busy. You'll be walking next to the river and will pass a lot of gorgeous waterfalls on your left. At one point you'll reach a bridge over the river. This is where most people turn back, but you are of course free to explore the Fimmvörðuháls trail a bit further. Just remember that you'll have to hike the same distance back.