Nauthúsagil
A moss-lined canyon with a hidden waterfall beneath Eyjafjallajökull
About This Experience
Nauthúsagil barely appears in guidebooks, which is part of its appeal. It's a narrow ravine carved into volcanic tuff on the western flanks of Eyjafjallajökull, and reaching the waterfall at its end requires wading through a shallow stream, squeezing through gaps in the rock, and hauling yourself along fixed ropes bolted to the canyon walls.
The canyon itself is the experience. The walls are covered in thick, green moss that drips with moisture, and the ravine narrows until you can almost touch both sides at once. Light filters down from above, giving everything a cathedral quality. At the back, Nauthúsafoss drops into the enclosed space — a modest waterfall by Icelandic standards, but the journey to reach it makes it feel earned.
We visited after a morning at Seljalandsfoss (about 10 km away) and were completely alone in the canyon. The contrast between the tourist crowds at the famous waterfall and the total solitude here was surreal.
What to Expect
The turnoff is on Road 249 (the road toward Þórsmörk), behind Stóra-Mörk farm. A regular 2WD car can reach the Nauthúsagil parking area — the F-road starts further along toward Þórsmörk.
From the parking spot, a short trail leads to the canyon entrance. The stream is ankle-deep in normal conditions but can reach knee-depth after rain or glacial melt. Fixed ropes along the canyon walls help with balance and grip as you scramble over rocks and wade through the water.
The canyon narrows progressively, and the final section before the waterfall is the tightest. The whole walk-in takes about 20-30 minutes. Allow the same for the return.
Practical Tips
- Waterproof boots are essential — you will be wading through water the entire way
- The fixed ropes are bolted to the walls; use them — the rocks are slippery
- Bring a waterproof case for your phone and camera
- Best visited June to September; the stream can flood with glacial meltwater earlier in the season
- A 2WD car can reach the parking area; the F-road to Þórsmörk starts further along Road 249
- Combine with Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi (both within 10 km)
- Not recommended for young children or those uncomfortable in tight, enclosed spaces
- The drive from Vik takes about 40 minutes west on Route 1, then Road 249
Photo Gallery
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