A day trip to Gjain Canyon in South Iceland
About the Author
Gjáin is a small canyon oasis in Þjórsárdalur valley in South Iceland, close to the historic farm area Stöng. It is one of those places that feels like a hidden world: waterfalls, pools, lava shapes, and basalt formations packed into a short walk.
Build a full Þjórsárdalur day by combining Gjáin with Háifoss and Hjálparfoss. For road planning, read Driving in Iceland.
What makes Gjáin special
Gjáin is famous for its compact scenery: small waterfalls, calm ponds, lava caves, and volcanic rock formations (including basalt columns). The river Rauðá runs through the valley and forms Gjárfoss, a small waterfall beautifully framed by striking rock formations.
Good to know
If you are visiting Gjáin during summer, give yourself time to explore the valley slowly and safely. In cooler seasons it is especially important to check weather and road conditions before travelling. Road access can be bumpy because the final approach is on a dirt/gravel road, so a 4x4 or higher-clearance vehicle can make the drive more comfortable.
Perfect Þjórsárdalur day: Gjáin + Háifoss + Hjálparfoss
Gjáin is right in the same Þjórsárdalur area as Háifoss (the big canyon viewpoint) and Hjálparfoss (easy basalt-framed falls). It’s ideal to combine all three in one day, with the historic farm area Stöng as a bonus stop.
If you are also curious about the Iceland waterfall linked with the Stranger Things finale, see our guide: Háifoss Stranger Things Waterfall.
How to get to Gjáin
Gjáin is about one and a half hour from Reykjavík in good conditions. Take Ring Road nr. 1 towards Selfoss, drive through the town and then take road nr. 30. Drive for about 10 minutes and then turn right on road nr. 32, then drive for about 25 minutes and then turn left on road nr. 327. From there it's about 20 minutes drive to the historical farm Stöng.
From the historical farm Stöng there is a relatively easy walk to the northern part of Gjáin, where you will find Gjárfoss waterfall. You can also drive past Stöng a little bit further to the parking lot on the south side of Gjáin and walk down steps into the valley.
Please check weather and road conditions before travelling in Iceland especially during winter and read more about Driving in Iceland.
Other places in the area worth visiting
On the way back you can turn left and drive further to the road leading to Háifoss Waterfall. Háifoss is one of the most dramatic canyon waterfalls in South Iceland, with a powerful viewpoint where you can often see both Háifoss and the neighboring waterfall Granni in the same gorge.
You can also go back on road nr. 32 and drive for a few minutes and then turn left to Hjálparfoss waterfall. Hjálparfoss is an easy stop with beautiful basalt columns and a calm basin, making it a perfect quick add-on on the same day.
Secret Lagoon
After a long day it can be ideal to drive to Flúðir and relax at the Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin). It is a natural hot spring pool with warm water constantly flowing in, and good facilities for changing and showers.
Book your adventure
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