Skógafoss on Postcard

"Breathtaking Skógafoss Waterfall On our way from Selfoss to Vik, we passed this gorgeous waterfall called Skógafoss cascading over towering cliffs that used to make up Iceland 's coastline. Long ago the coastline receded towards the sea about 3.1 miles but the former sea cliffs remained, combining with the mountains around them to form a natural dividing line between the coastal lowlands below and the rural highlands above. Skógafoss Waterfall is one of Iceland 's largest, over 80 feet wide and 200 feet tall. If you look closely, you can see from this photo how large the falls are by how tiny the people in the foreground look. Because of its size, the waterfall produces a lot of spray, and on sunny days you're often treated to at least a single rainbow, often a double one. But that same spray can be a shocking surprise when it hits your face on a frigid winter day. If you feel like an added adventure, you can hike a trail up the eastern side of the waterfall all the way to the top for a different perspective of the falls, although that's not recommended during the winter months when the trail is icy and slick. Although I've never seen Skógafoss Waterfall in the summer and imagine it's stunning when surrounded by lush green grass, it's absolutely amazing during the winter when snow and ice adds to its drama. I definitely recommend a trip to Skógafoss Waterfall, a convenient stop just off the road if you're heading to Vik from Selfoss."

Exploring Iceland's Ring Road

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Lee Hoile

Google

One of my favourite but also one of the popular waterfalls. It’s easy to find and has lots of convenient parking and also some good facilities. There are well constructed steps to the top of the waterfall, if you fancy the climb. If you get the opportunity and have the time, continue the walk along the river for some great views. There is also camping nearby for those wanting to stay.

Val D

Google

Personally think the view from the bottom is much better than the view from the top! And only climb up those steps if you have good lungs and strong legs lol. Otherwise beautiful waterfall

Tan Ya Hwee

Google

Skogafoss is one of the most popular waterfalls in Iceland, located on the southern coast. On a sunny day, you might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a rainbow in the mist from the falls. A staircase alongside the waterfall allows visitors to hike up and enjoy views from the top No parking fees required for this spot

Daniel Wisniak

Google

Powerful waterfall. steep hike to the top using the stairs. Nice walk along the river. Had a windy and rainy day.

Fair Advice

Google

One of the most beautiful waterfalls I have ever seen. The climb to the observation deck is a bit tiring, but definitely worth it If you want to take a picture near it, be prepared for the fact that your clothes may get wet in a few minutes.

X King

Google

Skógafoss waterfall is hands-down one of my favorite waterfalls in Iceland, and that says a lot because this country is basically a waterfall wonderland. The size of it is just epic, and depending on the season, it totally changes vibes. In summer, it’s surrounded by green cliffs, while in winter, the snow gives it this magical, otherworldly look. Although the waterfall is right next to the main road, getting there is an experience on its own – the road to the parking lot feels like a pothole obstacle course, so take it slow and enjoy the “massage”! But hey, at least parking is free, which is always a win in Iceland. And here’s the best part: you don’t have to hike to the top to be amazed. Just standing at the bottom of Skógafoss, you feel the mist and power of the water crashing down, and it’s incredible. If you do want to get a new angle, there’s a staircase that goes up the cliff. Fair warning, though – it’s a serious leg workout, and you might need a few breaks to catch your breath! But once you’re at the top, the view of the waterfall and the surrounding landscape is totally worth it. Skógafoss is just one of those places that never gets old – no matter the season, it’s unforgettable.

Casey Malmborg

Google

Beautiful, huge waterfall. It is worth the climb to the top for the unique view of the river, pre-fall, and the precipice. I counted roughly 466 stairs to the top (may have accidentally skipped a few being out of breath). Some are steeper than others. There are railings most of the way up, but in some areas, there is just a boundary chain to prevent wanderers. The bottom of the falls gets very wet the closer you get, so waterproof/resistant clothing is recommended if you want that close-up shot.

Lorrie King

Google

Definitely a highlight of my trip! There’s a trail that goes beyond the observation deck— it goes for miles but the farther up you go the less people and more and more waterfalls. The views are stunning…I hiked up for about an hour until I passed a guy who told me the full trail is 16 miles. It’s so worth it just to go up and back for a couple of hours.

Lee Hoile

Google

One of my favourite but also one of the popular waterfalls. It’s easy to find and has lots of convenient parking and also some good facilities. There are well constructed steps to the top of the waterfall, if you fancy the climb. If you get the opportunity and have the time, continue the walk along the river for some great views. There is also camping nearby for those wanting to stay.

Val D

Google

Personally think the view from the bottom is much better than the view from the top! And only climb up those steps if you have good lungs and strong legs lol. Otherwise beautiful waterfall

Tan Ya Hwee

Google

Skogafoss is one of the most popular waterfalls in Iceland, located on the southern coast. On a sunny day, you might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a rainbow in the mist from the falls. A staircase alongside the waterfall allows visitors to hike up and enjoy views from the top No parking fees required for this spot

Daniel Wisniak

Google

Powerful waterfall. steep hike to the top using the stairs. Nice walk along the river. Had a windy and rainy day.

Fair Advice

Google

One of the most beautiful waterfalls I have ever seen. The climb to the observation deck is a bit tiring, but definitely worth it If you want to take a picture near it, be prepared for the fact that your clothes may get wet in a few minutes.

X King

Google

Skógafoss waterfall is hands-down one of my favorite waterfalls in Iceland, and that says a lot because this country is basically a waterfall wonderland. The size of it is just epic, and depending on the season, it totally changes vibes. In summer, it’s surrounded by green cliffs, while in winter, the snow gives it this magical, otherworldly look. Although the waterfall is right next to the main road, getting there is an experience on its own – the road to the parking lot feels like a pothole obstacle course, so take it slow and enjoy the “massage”! But hey, at least parking is free, which is always a win in Iceland. And here’s the best part: you don’t have to hike to the top to be amazed. Just standing at the bottom of Skógafoss, you feel the mist and power of the water crashing down, and it’s incredible. If you do want to get a new angle, there’s a staircase that goes up the cliff. Fair warning, though – it’s a serious leg workout, and you might need a few breaks to catch your breath! But once you’re at the top, the view of the waterfall and the surrounding landscape is totally worth it. Skógafoss is just one of those places that never gets old – no matter the season, it’s unforgettable.

Casey Malmborg

Google

Beautiful, huge waterfall. It is worth the climb to the top for the unique view of the river, pre-fall, and the precipice. I counted roughly 466 stairs to the top (may have accidentally skipped a few being out of breath). Some are steeper than others. There are railings most of the way up, but in some areas, there is just a boundary chain to prevent wanderers. The bottom of the falls gets very wet the closer you get, so waterproof/resistant clothing is recommended if you want that close-up shot.

Lorrie King

Google

Definitely a highlight of my trip! There’s a trail that goes beyond the observation deck— it goes for miles but the farther up you go the less people and more and more waterfalls. The views are stunning…I hiked up for about an hour until I passed a guy who told me the full trail is 16 miles. It’s so worth it just to go up and back for a couple of hours.

Skógafoss

Skógafoss

Photos

Highlights

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