Hjálparfoss
About Hjálparfoss
Hjálparfoss is a double waterfall in Þjórsárdalur, where the Fossá river splits around a block of dark lava and pours in two white streams into one round pool. Curved basalt columns line the basin, and the whole scene fits in a single view from the bank above.
The falls are in the Vikrar lava field north of the volcano Hekla, close to where the Fossá joins the Þjórsá. From Reykjavík it's about 1 hour 45 minutes: Route 1 toward Selfoss, Route 30 north, then Route 32 east past Árnes to a signposted gravel spur of about 1 kilometer that ends at the parking lot.
Of the waterfalls in the valley, Hjálparfoss is the easy one. The viewpoints are a short walk from the parking lot, and 20 to 30 minutes is enough for photos and a look at the basalt. Just downstream is Búrfell, the second-largest hydropower station in Iceland, so expect power lines on the drive in.
Summer, from June to September, is the best time to visit Hjálparfoss, when the moss is green and the valley roads are in their best shape. In winter, check road.is before you leave Route 32. Háifoss, the Gjáin valley and the reconstructed farm Þjóðveldisbærinn are all a short drive away, and some guided Landmannalaugar day tours stop here on the way into the Highlands.
Good to know
Where is Hjálparfoss?
Hjálparfoss is in Þjórsárdalur in South Iceland, north of Hekla, just off Route 32. The drive from Reykjavík takes about 1 hour 45 minutes.
How do you get to Hjálparfoss?
Take Route 32 east past Árnes and turn onto the signposted gravel track to Hjálparfoss. It runs about 1 kilometer to a parking lot a short walk from the falls.
Is Hjálparfoss worth visiting?
Yes, if you're in Þjórsárdalur. It's a quick stop with an unusual twin drop and basalt columns, and it pairs well with Háifoss and Gjáin.
Can you visit Hjálparfoss in winter?
It depends on conditions. Snow and ice can make the gravel track and parking lot difficult, so check road.is before you go.
What is near Hjálparfoss?
Háifoss, the Gjáin valley and the Þjóðveldisbærinn Commonwealth Farm are all in the same valley. Hekla and the road to Landmannalaugar are farther east.
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