Gullfoss

Gullfoss is a waterfall in Bláskógabyggð formed by two separate drops along the Hvítá river that together descend about 32 meters (105 feet). The cascades throw glacier-fed water into a narrow canyon whose dark volcanic walls taper downward.

In the early 1900s, foreign investors tried to use the falls for a hydroelectric project, leading to a dispute. A local woman named Sigríður Tómasdóttir opposed the plan and helped secure protected status for the site in 1929.

Local resident Sigríður Tómasdóttir led a significant campaign to protect Gullfoss, establishing a precedent for environmental conservation in Iceland's natural landmarks.

A visitor center with restrooms and a café sits near the viewing platforms, which are connected by paved paths. The site remains open year-round, though winter conditions can make paths icy and require sturdy footwear.

In summer, the flow can reach 140 cubic meters (4,944 cubic feet) per second, creating a spray cloud that often forms a rainbow. The canyon itself is roughly 70 meters (230 feet) deep and only 21 meters (69 feet) wide, giving the impression that the water vanishes into the earth.

Location: Bláskógabyggð

Location: Hrunamannahreppur

Height: 21 m

Width: 70 m

Part of: Hvítá, Golden Circle

Website: https://gullfoss.is

GPS coordinates: 64.32661,-20.12168

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:52