Glymur Waterfall Guide
Plan the Glymur waterfall hike in Hvalfjörður with trail advice, nearby bases, West Iceland activity ideas, coordinates and FAQ.
Quick guide to Glymur
| Location | Hvalfjörður in West Iceland |
| Best for | Hiking, canyon views and a wilder day close to Reykjavik |
| Nearby places | Borgarnes, Akranes, Hvalfjörður and Husafell |
| Typical visit time | 3 to 4 hours for the hike |
| Best season | Late spring to autumn; river crossing conditions matter |
| Good to know | Treat Glymur as a hike, not a roadside stop; river crossings, mud and exposure can affect the route |
| Coordinates | 64.391139, -21.252028 |
What is Glymur Waterfall?
Glymur is a high waterfall in Hvalfjörður and one of the best hiking-focused waterfall experiences near Reykjavik. The route gives canyon views, a cave section and river scenery rather than a simple roadside viewpoint.
This is not the easiest waterfall on the list. The value is the hike itself, so weather, footwear and daylight matter.
Glymur Waterfall is one of the key waterfall stops for this route.
Why visit Glymur?
Glymur is worth visiting if you want a more active waterfall day and are comfortable with a proper hiking route. It works especially well for travellers who want West Iceland nature without committing to a very long drive.
The Glymur route is part of the experience, with canyon, cave and river scenery along the way.
How to visit Glymur
Plan Glymur as a hike, not a quick stop. In suitable conditions the route may include a river crossing, and the path can be muddy or exposed. If you want a broader West Iceland adventure, combine the day with Borgarfjörður, Husafell or a Langjokull activity.
Tours and activities that fit a Glymur route
Glymur is primarily a self-guided hike, but West Iceland glacier activities can turn the wider route into a stronger full-day plan.
A nearby West Iceland glacier activity that can fit a longer Hvalfjordur day.
A meet-on-location glacier option for travellers basing in Borgarfjordur.
A guided glacier-and-bathing day for travellers who want more than the Glymur hike.
A strong West Iceland add-on when travellers base near Husafell after the Glymur hike.
A calmer local activity for travellers turning the Glymur day into a West Iceland overnight plan.
A flexible private route when Glymur is one piece of a wider West Iceland plan.
Places near Glymur
Use Glymur as part of a wider route rather than a disconnected stop.
Towns and villages near Glymur
These are the most practical bases and service stops for planning the route.
Suggested itinerary ideas
Glymur hiking day
Start early, hike Glymur in good weather and keep the rest of the day flexible for Hvalfjörður stops.
Glymur plus Borgarfjordur
After the hike, continue toward Borgarnes or Husafell if daylight and energy allow.
West Iceland adventure add-on
Use Langjokull snowmobiling from Husafell as a separate active add-on when basing in West Iceland.
FAQ about Glymur
Is Glymur worth visiting?
Yes, if you want a hike. Glymur is best for active travellers rather than quick-photo waterfall stops.
How hard is the Glymur hike?
It is a moderate hike with uneven ground, steep sections and seasonal river-crossing considerations. It is not a casual roadside stop.
How long does Glymur take?
Most travellers should allow 3 to 4 hours for the hike, plus driving time and weather flexibility.
Can you visit Glymur from Reykjavik?
Yes, Glymur is a practical day trip from Reykjavik if the weather and trail conditions are suitable.
What tours work with Glymur?
Glymur itself is usually self-guided. For a wider West Iceland adventure, consider Langjokull snowmobiling from Husafell or other Husafell-area activities.
When is the best season for Glymur?
Late spring to autumn is usually best. Conditions outside that window can make the route more difficult or unsafe.
The second highest waterfall in Iceland Glymur
The cave on the way up to Glymur waterfall
The cave at Glymur waterfall
Looking down from the cliff at Glymur waterfall
Crossing the river on the way to Glymur Waterfall during the summer in Iceland
The hike up to Glymur waterfall offers amazing views
