A lot of people like to walk to Reykjadalur Hot Springs. A small town called Hveragerði is close to the start. Hveragerði is about 40 km (25 mi) from Reykjavík. A lot of people like this one because it ends in a warm river. A river that you can bathe in. That’s pretty cool, right?
Because this is a very famous hike, you should know that the river might be a little crowded. This is especially true in the summer.
In short, the hike to Reykjadalur Hot Springs
- The trail goes around 6 km (3.7 mi) in a circle.
- About 320 m (1050 ft) above sea level.
- Most of the way to the hot springs, where you can swim, is uphill.
- The ground is mostly pretty good, but it can get very muddy in the spring and when it rains.
- You should know that the walk is longer and harder than most people think. Whenever I’ve been on this path, I’ve seen people who aren’t dressed for the weather. It looks like they were going to walk a few hundred meters (thousand feet) uphill with their towel instead.
Don’t get the wrong idea, though—I’m not saying it’s a very hard one. Just write down the length and height so you know what to expect .
The places to stay near the hot springs in Reykjadalur
There are no dressing rooms
It feels pretty real to take a bath in the hot springs. By the river, there aren’t any bathrooms or real changing rooms. There are only a few wooden “changing walls” that give you some privacy while you put on or take off your swimming suit. This is all about “little,” so if you feel like you are too open, you might need help from another hiker. Have them hold up a towel for you to “close the door”
There is no personnel on site
The same is true for Seljavallalaug, the beautiful old swimming pool on the south coast: there are no people working there to take care of it. That means no one will clean up after you. Please bring back everything you bring to the river.
There aren’t any changing rooms in Reykjadalur, so clothes and towels are often left all over the place. Just make sure you have everything you need before you walk back to your car. Help each other keep the area clean and friendly for everyone who comes to see this one-of-a-kind spot.
In Reykjadalur, there are no bathrooms near the hot springs.
This is a very important one! Since there aren’t any bathrooms near the hot springs or warm river, you should use the ones in the parking lot by the trailhead before you go on your walk.
How do I get there?
You can get to the start of the hike to Reykjadalur Hot Springs best if you drive your own car or rent one. It is possible to take the bus from Reykjavík to Hveragerði, but the start is about a 4-kilometer (2.5-mile) walk from the bus stop, so it’s not a very good idea.
About 40 km (25 mi) from Reykjavík is where the trail starts. On Google Maps, type in “Parking for thermal river.” After that, you can’t go wrong.
Where to park in Reykjadalur
A few months ago, the parking lot by the entrance got a lot bigger and better. Besides that, you need to pay to park now. For the price of parking, you can also use the bathrooms on-site.
In the year 2024, the prices were set like this:
- 0 to 15 minutes Free for 15 to 60 minutes 200 ISK
- Every hour after 60 minutes, 250 ISK
- I paid 795 ISK to park my car for two and a half hours the last time I went on the walk.
By the trailhead, a small café called Café Reykjadalur / Reykjadalur Lodge opened in 2021. The hours are different during different times of the year. On their Facebook page, you can find out when they’re open:
The end of your hike doesn’t have to be Reykjadalur.
At first, I said that the warm river is at the end of the walk, but that’s not true. Not really. There is a path that goes on past the river, but 99% of people who do this hike turn around there.
The trail to the Reykjadalur Hot Springs is just one of many that can be found in an area known as Hengilsvaeðið, which means “Hengill Area.” That’s a mountain place that not many tourists know about.
This place has beautiful, rough nature. Different rocks and mountains. There are lakes, craters, and streams that are both warm and cold. The area has a lot of hot springs and boiling mud pots because it is a high-temperature volcanic area. A hiking place with a lot of different things to see and do.
You can find a map of the hiking trails here if you want to learn more about this area:
A map of the Hengill Area’s hiking trails
More ideas for hiking trails
If you like to walk, you should also see these lovely trails near Reykjavík and on the south coast.
- The waterfall trail above Skógafoss Waterfall
- Múlagljúfur
- Stakkholtsgjá
- Glymur
- Búrfellsgjá
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Reykjadalur Hot Springs is during the warmer months, typically from May to September. During this period, the weather is more mild and comfortable for hiking and swimming in the hot springs. The lush, green landscape and longer daylight hours also contribute to a more enjoyable and picturesque experience.
Recommended Hiking Gear and Supplies
- Wear sturdy, well-fitting hiking shoes or boots to navigate the uneven terrain.
- Dress in layers, including moisture-wicking base layers and insulating outer layers, to adapt to changing weather conditions.
- Pack plenty of water and nutritious snacks to stay hydrated and energized during the hike.
- Bring sun protection, such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, to shield yourself from the Icelandic sun.
- Don’t forget a swimsuit and towel for enjoying the hot springs.
Last thought on Reykjadalur Hot Springs
The Reykjadalur Hot Springs are one of a kind and offer a relaxing experience that lets tourists enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Iceland. From the beautiful views on the easy hike to the relaxing, steamy water of the hot springs, this place offers an adventure that you will never forget.
As you get ready for this trip, don’t forget to bring the things you’ll need, dress for the weather that could change, and pay attention to the marked swimming areas and any safety rules. Doing so will allow you to fully experience the peaceful geothermal beauty of the Reykjadalur Valley. You will leave feeling inspired, renewed, and amazed by the amazing power of Iceland’s natural scenery.
That’s all for now. If you liked this post and think your friends might too, please help me get the word out. If you could share it on social media or send it to a friend, that would be great.
FAQs on hike to the Reykjadalur Hot Springs
1. How long is the hike to the Reykjadalur Hot Springs?
The hike to the hot springs is approximately 3.5 kilometers (2.2 miles) each way, for a total round-trip distance of about 7 kilometers (4.4 miles).
2. How difficult is the hike?
The hike is considered moderate in difficulty, with an elevation gain of around 200 meters (650 feet). The trail has some steep and uneven sections, but it is well-maintained and suitable for hikers of various skill levels.
3. How long does the hike take?
The hike typically takes 1-1.5 hours each way, for a total round-trip time of 2-3 hours, depending on your pace and fitness level.
4. What should I bring for the hike?
It’s recommended to wear appropriate hiking gear, including sturdy shoes, layers of clothing, and sun protection. Bring plenty of water and snacks to refuel during the hike. You’ll also want to bring a swimsuit and towel for enjoying the hot springs.
5. What is the best time of year to visit the Reykjadalur Hot Springs?
The best time to visit the hot springs is during the warmer months, typically from May to September, when the weather is more mild and comfortable for hiking and swimming.
6. Are there any safety considerations?
Be mindful of the designated swimming areas and any signage or warnings, as some parts of the hot springs may be too hot for safe swimming. Respect the natural environment and follow any guidelines or instructions provided.
7. How do I get to the trailhead?
The hike to the Reykjadalur Hot Springs begins at the Rauðhamrar parking lot, which is approximately a 45-minute drive from downtown Reykjavík. The trailhead is well-marked and easy to find.
8. Are there any facilities or amenities at the hot springs?
There are no formal facilities or amenities at the hot springs, as it is a natural, undeveloped area. Plan to be self-sufficient with your own supplies and necessities. Also read : canyon Múlagljúfur
Hi, I’m Linda Milone, a travel enthusiast and safety advocate. I created Safe Travel Quest to share my passion for exploring new destinations while staying safe and informed. When I’m not planning my next adventure, you can find me researching the latest travel trends and tips. Follow safetravelquest along for practical advice and inspiring stories to help you travel with confidence.