Skaftafell - Svartifoss waterfall, basalt colums and Skaftafell glacier

Intro

Where else then in iceland can you cramp so much epicness in a 7km hike. The nature park Skaftafell truly is a hiker's paradise, this hike is no exception. The two most notable attractions are:

• Svartifoss: Also known as "the black waterfall", this famous waterfall is surrounded by basalt columns. These hexagon shaped natural pilars inspired Icelandic architecture. The waterfall might not be the highest with it's 20m (66 feet), but it has an amazing strange beauty to it.
• Skaftafell glacier: this hike will take you to a mountain ridge that will grant you a great view over the Skaftafell glacier. It is no wonder that the land of ice and fire's biggest glacier is an impressive sight to behold.

About the trail

Start your hike at the Skaftafell camping. The national park requires an entry fee that will be waived if you stay at the camping. If you're into hiking it is totally worth staying a few days, as there are plenty of paths to explore. The national park has a reception. I found the staff to be very helpful. They provided me with a map and can advice you about the weather conditions in the mountains.

With it's 7 km's, this is not the longest hike. The weather didn't allow it for me, but alternativly you can hike to Kristínartindar, a hike that includes most of this trail. Note that this last one is a very tough trail and you should have clear weather when attempting it.

Starting out you will take the path towards Svartifoss. This is a very busy trail as Svartifoss is a stop for every bus-tourist in Iceland. Luckily, these bus-tourist's also turn back again immediatly after checking out the waterfall. Their loss, as they will miss out on the epic view that follows. After you follow the path a bit higher up you'll be rewarded with an amazing view of the Skaftafell glacier. I found it baffling that 100's of people manage to get to Svartifoss waterfall every day, yet only a few take the time to to hike up to this viewpoint. Don't miss out on this one.

The last part will take you downhill, the glacier on your left, back to the camping.