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Ready to explore a hidden gem that's been kept under the radar for years? Múlagljúfur Canyon is an extraordinary destination on the south coast of Iceland that's quickly becoming a must-visit spot for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Tucked away from the bustling tourist trails, this canyon offers an unparalleled hiking experience, weaving through narrow paths lined with overgrown bushes and unveiling one breathtaking view after another. Imagine walking alongside cascading waterfalls, each step revealing a new slice of Iceland's wild beauty. Múlagljúfur Canyon isn't just another tick off the bucket list; it's a journey through one of Iceland's most awe-inspiring landscapes.
Miss this, and you're missing out on the magic that's making this place the talk of the travel world. Stick around, and we'll show you why this newly discovered gem deserves a top spot on your Iceland itinerary. Don't let this experience pass you by!
How to Reach Múlagljúfur Canyon in Iceland
To get to Múlagljúfur Canyon in Iceland, we highly recommend using an SUV or 4x4 vehicle due to the rough road conditions. Although it’s not an F-Road, this gravel road can still be quite challenging. Additionally, even in the summer, there’s a likelihood of fog, poor visibility, and strong winds, so it's essential to be well-prepared.
Also, note that there are no signs pointing to Múlagljúfur Canyon, so you'll need to be a little daring. The canyon is located about 40 minutes (45 km/28 mi) east of Skaftafell National Park and just 14 minutes (6.5 km/4 mi) east of Fjallsárlón.
Directions from Reykjavík
To reach Múlagljúfur in Iceland from Reykjavík, get ready for an epic 4.5-hour drive along the famous Ring Road (Route 1). This journey takes you through some of South Iceland's most breathtaking landscapes, so have your camera ready!
Along the way, you'll pass iconic spots like Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, each offering a perfect pit stop to stretch your legs and soak up the beauty. As you get closer to Múlagljúfur, keep your eyes peeled for an unmarked gravel road. This 2-kilometer (1.2-mile) stretch can be a bit rough.
Don't rely on signs—there aren't any! Instead, make sure to note the parking area coordinates (63.993021° N, 16.436285° W) on Google Maps. If you reach the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, you've gone too far and need to turn back.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Múlagljúfur Canyon is during the Icelandic summer, from June to September. During this period, you'll enjoy the most favorable weather conditions, with milder temperatures and minimal snow, making the trails far more accessible for hiking.
The summer season also brings lush greenery and vibrant landscapes, enhancing the canyon's stunning beauty and creating the perfect backdrop for your adventures. While Múlagljúfur Canyon is technically open year-round, be aware that visiting Múlagljúfur Canyon in winter can present some challenges. Snow and ice make navigation tricky, and autumn and spring often bring muddy, slippery trails.
If you're looking to avoid the peak tourist crowds and steep prices, consider visiting in the shoulder months of May or October. These months still offer decent weather and enough daylight for a more peaceful experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the canyon's beauty without the hustle and bustle.
The Múlagljúfur Canyon Hike
Hiking in Iceland does not get much better than this. There are two popular routes for hiking Múlagljúfur Canyon: the shorter Upper Trail and the longer Lower Trail. Each offers its own unique perspective of this stunning natural wonder, so we recommend trying both if time permits.
The Shorter Upper Trail
- Distance: 3.86 kilometers (about 2.4 miles)
- Elevation Gain: Approximately 200-300 meters (656-984 feet)
- Difficulty: Relatively Easy
- Hiking Time: 1.5 to 2.5 hours for a round trip
The shorter upper hiking trail to Múlagljúfur Canyon offers a thrilling hike with breathtaking views, but the canyon itself remains hidden until you reach the ridge's vantage point. From the small parking area, start your uphill journey on a visible path.
The trail splits into several routes—feel free to explore unless stones block the way, indicating closure. Keep an eye out for old trail markers to guide you to the main marked path. You'll first climb a small hill before descending into a gorge with a creek crossing.
Depending on the water level, you might hop from rock to rock. Be cautious of frost or ice on the rocks. After the crossing, the trail ascends again, leading you to the cliff's edge, where stunning views of the canyon await.
The Longer Lower Trail
- Distance: 5.77 kilometers (about 3.6 miles)
- Elevation Gain: Approximately 150-200 meters (492-656 feet)
- Difficulty: Somewhat Challenging
- Hiking Time: 2.5 to 3 hours round trip
The longer lower trail on the Múlagljúfur Canyon hike takes you beyond the shorter trail's endpoint to even more breathtaking sights. This route continues up the mountain from the ridge, offering stunning views of both Hangandifoss and Múlafoss waterfalls.
As you pass by Hangandifoss, make sure to pause at the viewpoint to soak in the waterfall's unique beauty. After this viewpoint, the trail becomes steeper, requiring careful navigation, especially when wet. Though the hike is relatively short, it demands caution—slippery conditions can make the path tricky to tackle.
Both trails provide stunning views, but it's important to note that neither is heavily marked. Due to this, if you intend to hike, you should come prepared with offline maps or GPS to navigate safely. We also recommend using the 112 Iceland APP for extra safety.
Points of Interest in Múlagljúfur Canyon
By now, you are probably itching to pack your bags and make your way to Múlagljúfur Canyon in Iceland. But before you do, let's give you some more details about what you can expect to see and do in this stunning location.
Hangandifoss and Múlafoss Waterfalls
Waterfalls in Iceland are a dime a dozen, but Hangandifoss and Múlafoss stand out as two of the most spectacular in the area.
First up, we have Hangandifoss—one of Iceland's tallest waterfalls, tumbling down the canyon walls from a jaw-dropping height of 123 meters (403 feet). This magnificent waterfall is a must-see, showcasing nature's raw power as water cascades into the canyon below.
Not far behind in beauty is Múlafoss. While slightly shorter at 101 meters (331 feet), Múlafoss offers a different but equally captivating perspective from the canyon's floor. Less accessible than Hangandifoss, this hidden gem rewards those adventurous enough to venture deeper into Múlagljúfur Canyon.
Panoramic Views
The Múlagljúfur Canyon hike is a dream come true for photography enthusiasts, offering countless opportunities for capturing stunning panoramic views. If you're after those perfect Múlagljúfur Canyon photos, head to the viewpoint at the end of the short trail.
Here, you'll find a breathtaking panoramic vista that includes the majestic Hangandifoss waterfall and the surrounding glacial landscapes, all in one sweeping frame. It's an ideal spot to capture the canyon's grandeur with your camera. For those who take the longer trail, two more viewpoints await at the hike's end, each offering unique perspectives.
The left viewpoint provides a dramatic view of the canyon's left branch and a distant waterfall, while the right viewpoint gives you a stunning shot of the Múlafoss waterfall and the glacier that carved this magnificent canyon. To maximize your photo opportunities, consider visiting during the golden hour—sunrise or sunset—when the lighting is just perfect.
Hiking Múlagljúfur Canyon during the summer can also be particularly advantageous for photographers due to the extended daylight hours. By mid-August, Iceland experiences sunrise around 5:00 am and sunset around 9:40 PM, allowing you ample time to explore the trails and take photos without feeling rushed!
Flora and Fauna
Despite its rugged appearance, Múlagljúfur Canyon is teeming with life, boasting a surprising diversity of flora and fauna. The canyon's slopes are blanketed with lush vegetation, from vibrant mosses and lichens to hardy alpine plants that thrive in this harsh environment.
As you hike through the canyon, you'll also come across fields of striking purple obsidian, a type of volcanic glass that gives the landscape an otherworldly feel. Keep an eye out for wildlife, too! While sightings aren't guaranteed, you might catch a glimpse of birds like the Arctic tern, Icelandic gull, or Eurasian oystercatcher gracefully soaring above the canyon.
Explore Attractions Near The Canyon
Once you've completed the Múlagljúfur Canyon hike, don't rush to leave just yet. The surrounding area is filled with other attractions that are well worth exploring. Here are a few nearby sites you don't want to miss out on:
Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a stunning natural wonder located near the mighty Vatnajökull Glacier, the largest glacier in Europe. This serene lagoon is dotted with floating icebergs that have calved off the nearby Fjallsjökull Glacier, creating a breathtaking landscape of shimmering blues and stark whites. It's a sight to behold and one that's not to be missed when exploring the area.
You can enjoy various activities, from boat tours that get you up close and personal with the icebergs to exhilarating glacier hikes offering panoramic views of the icy expanse. You can also enjoy a peaceful session of iceberg watching, marveling at the unique shapes and sizes of the ice formations as they drift lazily across the lagoon.
Vatnajökull National Park
Vatnajökull National Park is a breathtaking showcase of Iceland's diverse natural wonders, offering visitors a rich tapestry of landscapes and geological marvels. The park is home to the Skaftafell Nature Reserve, a popular destination that boasts an array of hiking trails leading to unforgettable sights.
One of the must-see features is the unique Svartifoss waterfall, renowned for its dramatic basalt columns that have inspired architectural wonders like Reykjavík's Hallgrímskirkja church. Along with Svartifoss, the park's trails also guide you to other beautiful waterfalls, such as Hundafoss and Magnúsarfoss, and provide scenic vistas of the Skaftafellsjökull glacier.
For those fascinated by the glacial beauty of Vatnajökull National Park, we suggest you also visit the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. The Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is more well-known than the Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Here, you can also enjoy a boat tour, but with a slight twist.
The lagoon is connected to the nearby Atlantic Ocean, and as you float along its peaceful waters, you can catch glimpses of seals swimming amidst the icebergs. The park also showcases Iceland's volcanic activity, with notable sites like Grímsvötn and landscapes transformed by past eruptions, such as the Skeiðarársandur glacial outwash plain, a stark reminder of the powerful 1996 Gjálp eruption.
Essential Tips for Your Visit
We know you're eager to hit the road and explore Múlagljúfur Canyon, but before you go, here are a few practical tips when you're planning your visit to the canyon:
What to Pack
When preparing for a hike to Mulagljufur Canyon, packing the right gear is essential to ensure a comfortable and safe adventure. Here's what you should bring:
- Layered Clothing: To handle Iceland's unpredictable weather, it's always good to start with moisture-wicking base layers, add a warm fleece or sweater, and top it off with a waterproof outer layer.
- Waterproof Hiking Boots: Choose boots with good traction and ankle support, perfect for navigating muddy and slippery trails, especially during creek crossings.
- Warm Accessories: A beanie, gloves, and a scarf are must-haves to shield yourself from cold winds and fluctuating temperatures.
- Backpack: Bring a comfortable daypack to carry all your essentials, like snacks, water, and extra layers.
- Hydration: A refillable water bottle or CamelBak reservoir is crucial to stay hydrated throughout the hike.
- Snacks: Pack high-energy snacks such as nuts, trail mix, or protein bars.
- Camera: Don't forget a camera or smartphone with extra batteries to capture Múlagljúfur's stunning views and waterfalls.
- Trekking Poles: These are useful for maintaining stability on steeper sections of the trail.
- Sunscreen and Sunglasses: Protect your skin and eyes from UV rays, even when it's cloudy.
Safety Tips
When hiking in Múlagljúfur Canyon, safety should always be your top priority. Here are a few key tips to keep in mind:
- Check the Weather: Iceland's weather is notoriously unpredictable, so always check the forecast before you set out. Be prepared for sudden changes by dressing in layers and bringing waterproof clothing to protect against rain and wind.
- Be Prepared: Have a reliable map or download offline maps, as mobile signals can be weak in remote areas. Familiarize yourself with the trail layout to avoid getting lost.
- Safety Essentials: Carry a fully charged mobile phone and save Iceland's emergency number (112). Pack water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and a whistle.
Environmental Responsibility
When exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Múlagljúfur Canyon, it's vital to follow the Leave No Trace principles to help protect this delicate environment. Here are a few key guidelines to keep in mind:
- Plan Ahead: Be well-prepared for your visit by researching the area, checking weather conditions, and familiarizing yourself with the trail layout. This will help prevent you from accidentally straying off established paths, which can damage sensitive ecosystems.
- Stay on Marked Trails: To protect the fragile ecosystem and for your own safety, stick to the marked trails. The paths can be slippery with mud or ice, especially in spring and fall, so tread carefully. Be extra cautious during water crossings; the stepping stones may be unstable or wet.
- Pack Out What You Pack In: Bring reusable containers for food and water, and make sure to dispose of all rubbish responsibly. Even organic waste can take a long time to break down in fragile environments like this.
Why Múlagljúfur Canyon Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List
Múlagljúfur Canyon has only recently gained attention among travelers and outdoor enthusiasts, making it a relatively "newfound" gem in Iceland's vast landscape.
Unlike more famous spots like Fjadrargljufur Canyon or Skógafoss, which have been popular for years due to their accessibility and frequent appearances in travel guides, Múlagljúfur remains somewhat under the radar. Its secluded location and the rugged, less-marked trails have contributed to its quieter presence on the tourist map.
However, Múlagljúfur Canyon has now become a must-add to any travel bucket list for its breathtaking waterfalls, panoramic viewpoints, and untouched natural beauty. Imagine hiking through lush trails, standing in awe at Hangandifoss, and soaking in the dramatic views from the canyon's rim. This unique destination offers a true escape into Iceland's wilderness.
To make the most of your adventure, consider renting a campervan in Iceland. This allows you to explore at your own pace, save on accommodation, and enjoy the freedom of the open road. With the Skaftafell Camping site just 40 minutes away, it's the perfect spot to park your campervan and immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of Múlagljúfur Canyon.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accessible is the Múlagljúfur Canyon hike?
The Múlagljúfur Canyon hike is accessible on foot, with steep and narrow paths. It may be challenging for very small children or elderly individuals but manageable for most adults.
Are there facilities nearby?
There are no facilities at the canyon itself, but nearby campsites like Skaftafell Campground and hotels such as Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon and Adventure Hotel Hof offer convenient accommodations.
Can you swim in the canyon?
No, swimming is not allowed in Múlagljúfur Canyon to protect the fragile ecosystem. However, there are nearby hot springs and pools where you can take a dip and relax after your hike.
Is there an entrance fee?
No, we would not recommend that you try to swim in the freezing waters of the canyon.
How much does it cost to visit Múlagljúfur Canyon?
There is no entrance fee for visiting Múlagljúfur Canyon, making it an affordable and accessible destination for all.
