Magnúsarfoss in June 2012

Vatnajökull National Park contains a number of beautiful waterfalls and glaciers.  Three waterfalls are found along the same river.  Hundafoss is the furthest downstream, and Svartifoss is the furthest upstream.  Magnúsarfoss is found in between (nearer Hundafoss).  (I believe there is another smaller waterfall even further downstream, but I didn’t see any clear signage.)

Magnúsarfoss isn’t anything wildly spectacular.  You aren’t extremely close to the falls, and during the summer the flies might drive you a little bit nuts.  But if you’re in the area to view the glacier and the other falls, stop by Magnúsarfoss.  It’s really a relatively easy hike, and the whole detour is definitely worth it.

Directions:

1. The entrance to the park is at Skaftafell, which is found directly off of the ring road.  It is found east of Vík and west of Höfn.  There are scheduled buses that will take you to the park directly from Reykjavík.
2. If you’re heading east along the Ring Road, the entrance will be found on your left.  Turn into road leading to the visitor’s center.
3. Head to the visitor’s center, park, and get your bearings for a bit.  To your right is the glacier.  To your left is a path that leads to the set of falls.
4. Head left on the trail.  Signs will indicate the trail to Svartifoss, which is the most popular of the three falls.
5. Head uphill for a bit, and after passing Hundafoss (which isn’t as obvious), you’ll arrive at Magnúsarfoss.

Accessibility: 6/10 (moderate, There are some uphill, rocky portions)
Height: 32′
Length of Hike: 1.2 miles round-trip (though further to get to Svartifoss)

Where in the World is Magnúsarfoss?