Háifoss Waterfall
Iceland's fourth highest waterfall at 122 meters — a breathtaking twin cascade plunging into a dramatic canyon near the volcano Hekla, and a filming location for Stranger Things.
About Háifoss
Háifoss, meaning "High Falls", is the fourth highest waterfall in Iceland, dropping an impressive 122 meters (400 ft) into a spectacular gorge. The waterfall is fed by the river Fossá, a tributary of Þjórsá — Iceland's longest river. The canyon walls reveal millions of years of volcanic geology, with layered basalt formations creating a stunning natural amphitheatre.
Right next to Háifoss stands its companion waterfall Granni (meaning "neighbour"), which cascades down the opposite side of the canyon. Together they form one of Iceland's most dramatic twin-waterfall landscapes — a sight that feels almost otherworldly as two powerful falls plunge side by side into the same deep gorge.
The area gained international fame when it was used as a filming location for the Netflix series Stranger Things, which featured the dramatic canyon landscape. The waterfall is located near the volcano Hekla, and close to the reconstructed medieval farm Þjóðveldisbærinn Stöng — the original farm was destroyed by a volcanic eruption of Hekla in the Middle Ages.
Distance from Cabin
~100 km / about 1 hour 30 minutes by car from Northern Lights Cabin via Route 32 and gravel road.
Waterfall Dimensions
122 m high (400 ft) — Iceland's fourth highest waterfall, after Morsárfoss, Glymur, and Hengifoss.
Visit Duration
1–2 hours at the viewpoint. Also possible as a 5–6 hour round-trip hike from the historical farm Stöng. Best visited June–September.
Stranger Things
Featured as a filming location for Netflix's Stranger Things. The dramatic canyon setting provided the perfect otherworldly backdrop.
Admission
Free entry. No parking fee. Access via gravel road (suitable for most vehicles in summer, but check conditions).
Háifoss Gallery
Photos of this magnificent waterfall and its dramatic canyon setting in the Icelandic highlands.
Location & Directions
Háifoss is about a 1 hour 30 minute drive from Northern Lights Cabin into the scenic Icelandic highlands.
From Northern Lights Cabin
- Distance: ~100 km (62 miles)
- Drive time: ~1 hour 30 minutes
- Route: Head east on Route 30 towards Flúðir, then take Route 32 north past Þjóðveldisbærinn Stöng. A gravel road leads to the parking area above the waterfall.
- Parking: Free parking area near the canyon rim, with a short walk to the viewpoint.
Good to Know
- The gravel road to Háifoss can be rough — a sturdy car is recommended, though not necessarily a 4x4 in good conditions. Always check road conditions before driving.
- Best visited from June to September when the road is open and accessible. The road may be closed in winter.
- Stay well back from the canyon edge — the cliffs are unfenced and the drop is extreme.
- Combine with a visit to the reconstructed Viking-age farm Þjóðveldisbærinn Stöng on the way.
- There are no facilities at Háifoss — bring your own food, water, and warm clothing.