Strútsfoss Waterfall
Strútsfoss
A 7.5 km round trip up a quiet valley in Fljótsdalur to Strútsfoss, a tall waterfall in a colourful canyon.
- Distance
- 7.5 km
- Out & back
- Time
- 2–2.5 hours
- Ascent
- 200 m
- Max 260 m
- Difficulty
- Moderate
The Strútsfoss hike leads to one of the most impressive waterfalls in East Iceland, hidden in a side valley at the head of Fljótsdalur. The out-and-back trail is 7.5 km and takes 2–2.5 hours, with 200 m of ascent and a high point of 260 m. It is a moderate walk on a clear path, much quieter than nearby Hengifoss.
The trail follows a stream up a narrow valley, with grassy slopes and colourful rock layers on either side. Strútsfoss drops in stages into a deep canyon, framed by red and orange rock. On the way you pass smaller cascades and gorges. It is a good choice if you want a waterfall hike without the crowds. Bring a snack and enjoy the view.
Highlights
- Strútsfoss, a tall, multi-tiered waterfall in a canyon
- Colourful rock layers in the valley walls
- Smaller cascades and gorges along the way
- Quiet trail in the inner part of Fljótsdalur
The route
Up the valley
The trail starts from a small parking area at the head of Fljótsdalur and follows a stream up a narrow valley. The path is clear but rough in places, with short steep sections and small streams to step across. Grassy slopes and rock layers line the valley.
Strútsfoss viewpoint and return
The trail ends at a viewpoint looking across the canyon to Strútsfoss as it falls in stages into the gorge below. Stay well back from the canyon edge. Return the same way, taking care on the steeper sections. The gorge is especially colourful in soft, overcast light.
Getting to the trailhead
Strútsfoss is in the inner part of Fljótsdalur, south of Lake Lagarfljót, about an hour's drive from Egilsstaðir. The final approach is on a gravel side road in Suðurdalur; check road.is for conditions. There is no public transport, so a car is needed.
Where to stay
Egilsstaðir has hotels, guesthouses and services. Closer to the trail, there is accommodation in Fljótsdalur and around Hallormsstaður, which has a hotel and the Atlavík campsite. Book ahead in summer, as options are limited.
Best time to hike
May to October is the best time, when the trail is usually free of snow. June to August brings long days and the strongest flow from snowmelt in early summer. In autumn, the valley colours are beautiful, but days shorten quickly.
Safety
Keep well back from the canyon edge near the waterfall; the slopes are steep and can be loose. Streams can rise after heavy rain. The trail is remote with limited mobile coverage, so tell someone your plans. Check vedur.is and SafeTravel.is, and call 112 in an emergency.
Plan & book
Book your Strútsfoss Waterfall hike
CampingEast Iceland Campsites
Campsites around Egilsstaðir and Hallormsstaður forest.
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Guided tourEast Iceland Tours from Egilsstaðir
Stuðlagil, Hengifoss and the eastern fjords with a local guide.
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Strútsfoss Waterfall FAQ
How long is the Strútsfoss hike?+
It is a 7.5 km out-and-back, taking 2–2.5 hours, with 200 m of ascent.
Is the Strútsfoss hike difficult?+
It is rated moderate. The path is clear, with some steep and rough sections and small streams to cross.
Is Strútsfoss near Hengifoss?+
Yes. Both are in Fljótsdalur, and many visitors see Hengifoss and Strútsfoss on the same day. Strútsfoss is further into the valley and much quieter.
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