The Golden Circle is often explored as a driving route, but it also offers several hiking opportunities that allow you to experience Iceland’s landscapes more closely. From short walks to moderate hikes, these trails provide access to waterfalls, geothermal areas, and volcanic terrain beyond the main viewpoints.
Most hikes along the Golden Circle are relatively short and can be added to a day trip without major detours.
Overview: Hiking on the Golden Circle
- Best easy hike: Þingvellir trails
- Best waterfall hike: Brúarfoss
- Best geothermal hike: Reykjadalur hot river
- Best short hike: Helgufoss
- Best challenging hike: Ingólfsfjall
Þingvellir National Park Trails
| Distance: 3–6 km |
| Difficulty: Easy to moderate |
| Time: 1–2 hours |
| Access: Parking areas throughout the park |
Þingvellir offers some of the most accessible hiking trails on the Golden Circle. Well-marked paths run through the rift valley between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
Popular routes include:
• Almannagjá gorge
• Öxarárfoss waterfall
• lakeside paths near Þingvallavatn
These trails are suitable for most visitors and can be easily combined with sightseeing stops.
Golden Circle & Snorkeling
Golden Circle Snorkeling Tour combines Iceland’s most famous sights with a once-in-a-lifetime adventure snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Silfra in Þingvellir National Park.
Golden Circle & Snorkeling
Brúarfoss Waterfall Trail
| Distance: 7 km round trip |
| Difficulty: Moderate |
| Time: 2–3 hours |
| Access: Designated parking area |
Brúarfoss is known for its vivid blue water and is one of the most popular hiking stops along the Golden Circle.
The trail follows the Brúará river and includes several smaller waterfalls along the way. Conditions can be muddy, especially after rain.
Note: Stay on the marked trail, as surrounding land is private.
Reykjadalur Hot River Trail
| Distance: 6–7 km round trip |
| Difficulty: Moderate |
| Time: 2–3 hours |
| Access: Trailhead near Hveragerði |
Reykjadalur combines hiking with a geothermal bathing experience. The trail leads through a valley with steam vents, hot springs, and rolling hills before reaching a warm river suitable for bathing.
Conditions can vary:
- muddy sections in wet weather
- steady incline during the first part of the hike
Facilities are very limited, and visitors should be prepared to change outdoors.
Helgufoss Waterfall Trail
| Distance: Within 2 km round trip |
| Difficulty: Easy |
| Time: 1 hour |
| Access: Short drive from the main route |
Helgufoss is a quieter alternative to more visited waterfalls on the Golden Circle. The trail is short and relatively flat, making it suitable for most visitors.
This is a good option if you want a quick walk without committing to a longer hike.
Ingólfsfjall
| Distance: 3–4 km round trip |
| Difficulty: Moderate to challenging |
| Time: 2–2.5 hours |
| Access: Near Selfoss |
Ingólfsfjall offers a steeper and more physically demanding hike compared to most Golden Circle trails.
The route climbs steadily to a plateau with wide views over South Iceland, including rivers and surrounding lowlands.
This is best suited for travelers looking for a more challenging hike. The ascent is relatively steep, especially in the first section, but the route is short compared to many other hikes in Iceland
Quick Comparison of Hiking Trails
Swipe to scroll table
Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Þingvellir | 2–6 km | Easy–Moderate | 1–2 h |
| Brúarfoss | 7 km | Moderate | 2–3 h |
| Reykjadalur | 6–7 km | Moderate | 2–3 h |
| Helgufoss | 3–4 km | Easy | 1–1.5 h |
| Ingólfsfjall | 3–4 km | Moderate–Challenging | 2–2.5 h |
How to Choose the Right Hike
Þingvellir — choose this if you want:
- easy walking trails
- minimal effort
- geological features
Brúarfoss — choose this if you want:
- a waterfall-focused hike
- moderate distance
- a scenic river route
Reykjadalur — choose this if you want:
- a combination of hiking and bathing
- geothermal landscapes
- a longer experience
Helgufoss — choose this if you want:
- a short and quiet walk
- minimal time commitment
Ingólfsfjall — choose this if you want:
- a more physical challenge
- elevated views
- fewer visitors
Hiking Conditions and Safety
Weather conditions in Iceland can change quickly, even in summer. Before heading out:
- check weather at vedur.is
- wear layered clothing
- bring waterproof gear
- use proper footwear (trails can be muddy or uneven)
In winter, some trails may be icy or difficult to access.
Golden Circle Hiking FAQ
Are there good hikes on the Golden Circle?
Yes. The route offers a range of short to moderate hikes that can easily be added to a day trip.
Do you need hiking experience?
Most trails are accessible to beginners, though some, like Ingólfsfjall, are more demanding.
Can you hike the Golden Circle in winter?
Some trails remain accessible, but snow and ice can make conditions more difficult.
What is the best hike on the Golden Circle?
Reykjadalur is one of the most unique, combining hiking with a geothermal bathing experience.
Do you need special gear?
Sturdy shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and basic outdoor preparation are recommended.
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