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Glymur Waterfall

4.8
(
963
)
・Tourist Attraction ・
301, Iceland

Glymur is a stunning waterfall located in Iceland, known for being the country's second-tallest waterfall. It stands at around 198 meters (650 feet) high, making it a breathtaking natural wonder. Glymur is situated in the Hvalfjörður fjord, about an hour's drive north of Reykjavik. To reach Glymur, visitors must embark on a scenic hike. The trail offers beautiful views and passes through lush landscapes, including a small cave and a river crossing that adds a bit of adventure to the journey. The hike is moderately challenging and takes about 3-4 hours round trip. Once at Glymur, the sight of the cascading water is truly impressive. The waterfall flows down a narrow canyon, surrounded by steep cliffs and vibrant greenery. It's a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers seeking dramatic landscapes. While visiting Glymur, it's important to wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for changing weather conditions. The path can be slippery, so caution is advised. Despite the effort needed to reach it, witnessing Glymur's beauty makes for an unforgettable experience in Iceland's remarkable wilderness.

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Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours
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What other travelers are saying about

Glymur Waterfall

Just a beautiful drive up along the coast to the parking lot, and then the hike itself was amazing, a must-do for those that are able. Our three kids(8,10,12) loved it. The cave and the log crossing near the beginning were great, and the hike itself travels up the right side of the falls providing loads of ridiculously beautiful photo opps along the way, some of which aren't for the faint of heart as safety barriers are nowhere to be found. We did wade across the river atop the falls which was fun, and then came down the other side. Trail up is easily followed, there are a few options coming down and the one we took hugged the side of the falls. Need to be in decent shape to do this hike, and give yourself at least 2-3 hours to enjoy it.

Luke Trill
August 25, 2025
New York, NY

Glymur delivers a great hike, awesome views and a bit of adventure. The Right side is steep, with multiple steps.. hike to the top, walk upstream and cross the river. The water is knee high, so plan and bring a pair of water shoes or Crocs. 5.0 hike 2nd highest waterfall in Iceland 🇮🇸

Dan Chegash
August 23, 2025
New York, NY

one of the best waterfalls. incredible view of the waterfall, gorge, valley and ocean. the hike is quite difficult. difficult climb, cliffs close to the trail, there is a river crossing.

Yulua
August 3, 2025
New York, NY

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Frequently asked questions

What is Glymur?

Glymur is the second highest waterfall in Iceland, located in the Hvalfjörður fjord. It stands at a height of 198 meters and offers a stunning hiking experience with breathtaking views.

How can I reach Glymur waterfall?

To reach Glymur, you need to drive to the end of Hvalfjörður fjord, which is about an hour from Reykjavik. From there, it's a hike of approximately 3.5 kilometers each way that includes crossing a river and navigating some steep terrain.

What should I bring for the hike to Glymur?

For the Glymur hike, it is recommended to bring sturdy hiking boots, waterproof clothing, and possibly a walking stick for stability. Snacks and water are also essential as there are no facilities along the trail.

Is the hike to Glymur suitable for beginners?

The hike to Glymur is considered moderate to challenging, involving river crossings and steep sections. While it's not recommended for complete beginners, those with some hiking experience should find it manageable.

When is the best time to visit Glymur waterfall?

The best time to visit Glymur is during late spring through early autumn (May to September) when the weather conditions are more favorable and the trail is safer without snow or ice.