Kvernufoss
About Kvernufoss
Kvernufoss sits in a narrow canyon less than 2 kilometers from Skógafoss, yet most of the crowds at Skógar never find it. The waterfall drops about 30 meters into a green, steep-walled gorge, and the trail takes you right behind the falling water.
You'll find Kvernufoss waterfall in South Iceland next to the Skógar Museum, about two hours' drive east of Reykjavík on Route 1. Park at the museum lot, then follow the marked path along the stream into the gorge. The walk takes about 20 minutes each way on a new path laid in 2022 to handle more visitors.
Near the end, the trail climbs to a ledge under an overhang, so you can stand in the recess and look out through the curtain. Expect spray and slick rock there. Waterproof layers and shoes with good grip make the difference between a fun detour and a soggy one.
Summer brings green canyon walls, easy footing and long evenings, which let you arrive after the tour buses have moved on. In winter the path can be icy and the falls partly frozen, so bring microspikes and check conditions first. Allow about an hour for the round trip and photos.
Most people pair the Kvernufoss hike with Skógafoss, a short drive west, and the stairs to the viewing platform above it. Check the payment signs at the Skógar Museum lot before you leave the car.
Good to know
How do you get to Kvernufoss?
Drive to the Skógar Museum on Route 1, about two hours east of Reykjavík, and park there. A marked trail follows the stream from behind the museum into the gorge.
How long is the hike to Kvernufoss?
The walk takes about 20 minutes each way on a mostly gentle path. Plan on about an hour in total, including time behind the falls.
Can you walk behind Kvernufoss?
Yes. The trail climbs to a ledge under an overhang behind the waterfall, where you can look out through the water. Expect spray, so bring a waterproof layer.
How far is Kvernufoss from Skógafoss?
Kvernufoss is less than 2 kilometers east of Skógafoss, a few minutes' drive away at the Skógar Museum. Seeing both takes about two hours.
Is Kvernufoss worth visiting?
If you're already stopping at Skógafoss, yes. It adds about an hour, has far fewer people, and lets you stand behind the falls in a narrow green canyon.
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