Háifoss

Háafoss is one of Iceland’s most dramatic waterfalls, formed where the river Fossá plunges from the edge of the highlands into a narrow and rugged valley known as Fossársdalur, located deep within Þjórsárdalur. The river is fed by both surface water and springs, with an average flow of around 7 cubic meters per second, giving the waterfall a powerful and consistent appearance.

Fossá descends over steep cliffs in two separate waterfalls. The upper and larger fall remained unnamed for a long time until geologist Helgi Pjeturs named it Háafoss in 1912. With a total drop of approximately 122 meters, Háafoss is the second-highest waterfall in Iceland, surpassed only by Glymur in Hvalfjörður. Nearby, a slightly smaller waterfall can be seen; it was named Granni by Helgi Pjeturs’ French colleague, André Courmont. Together, the two waterfalls create one of the most impressive natural spectacles in the region.

The geological formations surrounding Háafoss offer valuable insight into Iceland’s volcanic history. The rock layers near the waterfalls are estimated to be close to two million years old, consisting of thick lava flows above and layers of palagonite tuff beneath, formed during subglacial eruptions in the Ice Age. These visible strata make the area especially interesting for those with an interest in geology and natural history.

Access to Háafoss is via a gravel track branching northwest from the road to Sultartangi Power Station, passing through Hólaskógur woodland. Clear signposts mark the route. A road leads to a viewing platform near the canyon, offering breathtaking views of the waterfalls and the surrounding landscape. Visitors are strongly advised to exercise caution near the cliff edges, as the terrain can be unstable.

The area around Háafoss is rich in natural attractions and scenic highlights. Nearby sites include Gjáin, a lush oasis renowned for its streams and waterfalls, as well as Gjáin and Gjárfoss. Other notable nearby destinations include Hjálparfoss and Þjófafoss. The volcano Hekla dominates the skyline and adds a dramatic backdrop to the landscape, along with Búrfell and the surrounding lava fields.

Háafoss is therefore not only one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls but also an integral part of a remarkably diverse natural environment where waterfalls, volcanoes, lava fields, and fertile valleys come together. A visit to Háafoss offers an unforgettable experience and a deeper understanding of the powerful forces that have shaped Iceland’s landscape over thousands of years.

Source: Þjórsárstofa
Photo: Islandsmyndir.is