Morsárjökull via Morsárdalur

Overview

A big, wild day out from Skaftafell Visitor Centre into the broad Morsárdalur valley, this loop earns distant views of Morsárfoss (Iceland’s tallest waterfall) and front-row looks at the retreating Morsárjökull glacier and its proglacial lake. Expect long stretches of rough black sand and braided-river country rather than steep climbing. The full loop is about 13 miles total (6–7 hours), rated difficult mainly for its length and underfoot conditions. A shorter valley loop (about 14–15 km/3.5–4.5 hours) trims distance but skips the main glacier-lake viewpoint.

Route Snapshot

From the Visitor Centre, follow signs toward Sjónarsker and continue into Morsárdalur. Stay on the marked track between Grjóthóll and the glacial lake beneath Morsárjökull for sweeping glacier views. On the return, go back to Grjóthóll, cross the footbridge over the Morsá, follow the river to the second footbridge by Götugil, then take the marked trail back to the Visitor Centre.

What You’ll See

Morsárjökull’s snout and lake sit in a stark amphitheater of dark sand and bedrock. In summer you may hear ice calving from the glacier’s cliffs. A notable 2007 landslide remains draped across parts of the ice—an unmistakable reminder this landscape is constantly in flux. With clear weather, look up-valley for distant glimpses of Morsárfoss revealed by the glacier’s retreat. The approach crosses birch scrub and outwash plains, with big-sky valley views throughout.

Best Time to Hike

Late spring through early fall (roughly May–September) offers the most straightforward footing and access to the seasonal footbridges. This is a quieter corner compared to Skaftafell’s famous waterfall circuits, but it’s still a long day—start early to bank time for weather and photo stops.

Difficulty, Conditions, and Who It’s For

The challenge is endurance and terrain: soft, sandy stretches and sections along a braided river corridor add effort. Elevation gain is modest. Fit, experienced hikers who enjoy big landscapes and don’t mind a long valley traverse will love it. If you want a shorter taste of glacier scenery, consider the Sjónarnípa viewpoint instead; for a better chance to actually see Morsárfoss, plan a separate long day to Kristínartindar.

Tips and Safety

• Use only the signed footbridges (including at Götugil); bridge placement can change with conditions.
• Stay well back from the lagoon edge and off the glacier—calving ice and surge waves are real hazards.
• Weather flips fast. Bring waterproof boots, warm layers, food, and plenty of water; cell coverage can be patchy in the valley.
• Ask the Visitor Centre for the current M2 map, precise directions, and any closures or reroutes. Binoculars are a plus for spotting Morsárfoss.

Variations

• Shorter Morsárdalur loop: a moderate, shorter circuit that explores the valley without pushing to the main glacier-lake viewpoint.
• Add-ons and alternatives nearby: Sjónarnípa for a quick glacier panorama; Kristínartindar (difficult) for the best angle on Morsárfoss on a clear day.