Hljóðaklettar & Rauðhólar
Hljóðaklettar
An easy 4 km loop past the twisted basalt columns of Hljóðaklettar and the red craters of Rauðhólar in Vesturdalur.
- Distance
- 4 km
- Loop
- Time
- 1–1.5 hours
- Ascent
- 80 m
- Max 200 m
- Difficulty
- Easy
The Hljóðaklettar and Rauðhólar hike is an easy loop in Vesturdalur, part of the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon area of Vatnajökull National Park in North Iceland. Hljóðaklettar, the 'echo rocks', are the remains of volcanic plugs where basalt columns twist in rosettes, fans and spirals, while Rauðhólar is a row of red crater cones nearby. The loop is about 4 km with roughly 80 m of ascent and a high point near 200 m, and takes 1–1.5 hours.
The trail winds through the rock formations, where the columns are larger and more varied than at most other basalt sites in Iceland, before climbing gently to the red craters. From Rauðhólar there are views over the canyon and the Jökulsá á Fjöllum. It is a well-marked, easy walk, and one of the most rewarding in the national park for the effort required.
Highlights
- Twisted basalt column formations at Hljóðaklettar
- Natural caves and arches in the rocks
- The red crater row of Rauðhólar
- Views over the Jökulsá á Fjöllum canyon
The route
Through Hljóðaklettar
From the car park the trail drops into the rock formations at Hljóðaklettar, winding past columns that point in every direction: rosettes, honeycomb walls and leaning fans. There are shallow caves and arches to look into from the path, including one known as Kirkjan, 'the church'. The going is easy, with some rocky steps and short ups and downs.
To Rauðhólar and back
The loop then heads out across heath and birch scrub toward the red cones of Rauðhólar, climbing gently for views over the canyon and the grey Jökulsá á Fjöllum below. The trail curves back to the Hljóðaklettar car park on easy ground. Some sections are loose red gravel, so watch your footing near the craters and stay on the path.
Getting to the trailhead
Vesturdalur is reached from Route 862 on the west side of the Jökulsá á Fjöllum, via a side road from the main route between Ásbyrgi and Dettifoss. Both Route 862 and the side road are paved, but access may open later in the season, so check road.is and the Vatnajökull National Park website. Parking is at the Hljóðaklettar car park.
Where to stay
Vatnajökull National Park runs a campsite at Vesturdalur in summer, but check current status. Ásbyrgi, a short drive north, has a campsite and shop. Húsavík and Lake Mývatn have more accommodation.
Best time to hike
May to October is the season, though access roads may open later in spring. July and August are best for warm weather and long days. September is quiet and colourful. Outside the season, the area may be hard to reach.
Safety
This is a low-risk walk, but rocks can be slippery when wet and the canyon edge near Rauðhólar is unfenced. Walking off the marked paths is prohibited, to protect the vegetation and formations. Check SafeTravel.is and road.is before going, and call 112 in an emergency.
Plan & book
Book your Hljóðaklettar & Rauðhólar hike
CampingÁsbyrgi & Vesturdalur Campsites
National park campsites in Jökulsárgljúfur canyon.
Vatnajökull National Park
Guided tourDiamond Circle & Canyon Tours
Dettifoss, Ásbyrgi and Mývatn from Akureyri or Húsavík.
North Iceland operators1 day
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Hljóðaklettar & Rauðhólar FAQ
How long is the Hljóðaklettar hike?+
The loop with Rauðhólar is about 4 km with roughly 80 m of ascent and takes 1–1.5 hours. A shorter loop around Hljóðaklettar alone is possible.
Why is it called Hljóðaklettar?+
Hljóðaklettar means 'echo rocks'. The rock formations create unusual echoes, so sounds can seem to come from different directions.
Is the Hljóðaklettar hike suitable for children?+
Yes, it is an easy, well-marked walk with plenty of interesting rock formations to explore.
Hike it with a private guide
Guided trips with a licensed Icelandic guide, including transport and huts.
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