Rauðufossar & Rauðauga
Rauðufossar
A walk across highland plains to the red-tinged Rauðufossar waterfall and the clear blue spring of Rauðauga beyond.
- Distance
- 9.5 km
- Out & back
- Time
- 2.5–3.5 hours
- Ascent
- 250 m
- Max 790 m
- Difficulty
- Moderate
The Rauðufossar hike leads to one of Iceland's most photogenic highland waterfalls, where water spills down a slope stained red and orange by iron-rich minerals. The out-and-back walk is 9.5 km, takes 2.5–3.5 hours and has about 250 m of ascent, with a highest point of around 790 m. It sits in the Fjallabak highlands north of Hekla, close to the road towards Landmannalaugar.
Beyond the waterfall the trail continues to Rauðauga, a small spring pool of striking turquoise water at the source of the river. The contrast between the red rock and the blue spring is the highlight of the walk. The terrain is mostly open gravel plain and a gentle climb, so it is moderate rather than hard. The area is fragile and protected; stay on the marked trail and respect any signs at the falls.
Highlights
- Red and orange iron-stained rock beside the waterfall
- The turquoise spring pool of Rauðauga
- Wide highland views towards Hekla
- A short, rewarding walk close to the Landmannalaugar road
The route
Car park to Rauðufossar
From the parking area the trail crosses an open plain of gravel and sparse vegetation, following the river upstream. The walking is easy and mostly flat, with wide views of the surrounding mountains. The waterfall comes into view as you approach the slope where the coloured rock begins. Stay on the marked path to protect the vegetation.
Up to Rauðauga and back
The trail climbs gently beside the falls and continues to Rauðauga, the spring pool that feeds the river. The water is a vivid blue-green and very cold. Do not step into or around the edges, where the moss and ground are delicate. Return the same way, with views back over the plain.
Getting to the trailhead
The trailhead is on F225 (Landmannaleið), at the turn-off for Krakatindsleið, on the highland road towards Landmannalaugar. As an F-road it requires a proper 4x4 and is open only in summer. Check road.is for current openings and conditions before driving. There is a parking area at the start of the trail.
Where to stay
Landmannalaugar, a short drive away by 4x4, has an FÍ hut and campsite. Highland huts book up quickly in summer. Otherwise, the lowlands around Hella and Route 26 offer guesthouses and hotels within a few hours' drive.
Best time to hike
The season is July to September, matching the opening of the highland roads. July and August give the most stable weather and best light on the coloured rocks. September can be beautiful but colder, with a higher risk of early snow.
Safety
The plain is exposed to wind and sudden weather changes, and fog can roll in quickly. The rocks near the waterfall can be slippery, and the ground around Rauðauga is fragile. Carry warm, waterproof clothing and water. The area is remote with limited phone signal. Leave a travel plan at SafeTravel.is and call 112 in an emergency.
Plan & book
Book your Rauðufossar & Rauðauga hike
Huts & staysMountain Huts (Ferðafélag Íslands)
Book bunks in the Laugavegur and highland huts. Summer dates sell out months ahead.
Ferðafélag Íslands (FÍ)
Guided tourHighland Super Jeep Tours
No 4x4? Modified super jeeps cross the rivers and F-roads for you, with short hikes on the way.
Licensed Icelandic operators1 day
Gear rentalHiking & Camping Gear Rental in Reykjavík
Rent tents, sleeping bags, stoves, poles and microspikes instead of flying them over.
Reykjavík outfitters
Online booking opens soon. Press any button to get notified when it does.
Rauðufossar & Rauðauga FAQ
How long is the Rauðufossar hike?+
The out-and-back walk is 9.5 km and takes 2.5–3.5 hours, with about 250 m of ascent.
Do you need a 4x4 for Rauðufossar?+
Yes. The trailhead is on F225, a highland road that requires a proper 4x4.
What is Rauðauga?+
Rauðauga is the turquoise spring pool at the source of the river above Rauðufossar. The trail continues past the waterfall to reach it.
Hike it with a private guide
Guided trips with a licensed Icelandic guide, including transport and huts.
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