Vestdalsfossar Waterfalls and Hiking Trail Travel Guide
The Vestdalsfossar waterfalls are a series of cascades nestled in the lush landscapes of Seydisfjordur in the Eastfjords. Fed by the Vestdalsa river, these falls offer a picturesque sight as they tumble over rocky cliffs.
Vestdalsfossar translates to "West Valley Waterfalls," which hints at this area's beautiful nature. Hiking enthusiasts visiting Seydisfjordur should be sure to plan this destination into their East Iceland itinerary. This picturesque hiking trail boasts many striking waterfalls and offers the choice of a short or longer walk, and there are plenty of comfortable accommodation options in Seydisfjordur where you can end your day of adventuring.
Vestdalsfossar features breathtaking views of cascading waterfalls against rugged cliffs and lush landscapes along the Vestdalsa river. Adventurers can explore a mix of terrain with opportunities to spot local wildlife and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
If you're planning to rent a car in Iceland, you can embark on self-drive tours to Seydisfjordur and explore the Vestdalsfossar waterfalls and hiking trail. This two-week road trip is a perfect choice.
Location and How to Get There
Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons by AwOiSoAk KaOsIoWa. No edits made.
Seydisfjordur is rich in culture and nature, in the heart of Iceland's Eastfjords. It's approximately 16.6 miles (26.7 kilometers) east of Egisstadir along Road 93 (Seydisfjardarvegur).
The car park for the Vestdalsfossar waterfalls and hiking trail is on the north side of the Seydisfjordur Fjord, on Road 951, Vestdalseyrarvegur. It's about 2.2 miles (3.6 kilometers) from Seydisfjordur town, so those seeking an extended hike might choose to walk from the settlement.
Vestdalsfossar Waterfalls and Hiking Track Information
Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons by Navin75. No edits made.
The Vestdalsfossar waterfalls car park is the best place to start exploring. Whether you're seeking a short walk or a longer trek, the out-and-back trail from here offers different adventure levels.
Even those who opt for a short walk will enjoy awe-inspiring views. A short 0.4-mile (600-meter) walk leads to the first Vestdalsfossar waterfalls. It should take less than 10 minutes from the car park. The small, uneven path is steep in places but easy to follow in good conditions.
As soon as you start walking, the vistas over the fjord are incredible, and every step presents more inspiring views with the increasing elevation. Check out the remains of old buildings on the beach below.
Soon, you'll find yourself at the first Vestdalsfossar waterfalls, featuring two gorgeous cascades. The scenery is glorious, featuring rugged, rocky terrain and vibrant greenery. Ensure your camera is ready to capture images of the magical setting. You can walk around the area and above the falls for different perspectives.
Extending the Hike
Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons by Joe deSousa. No edits made.
Those seeking a more extended hike can continue walking along the Vestdalsfossar waterfalls trail. The path's total length from the Vestdalsfossar car park is 2.86 miles (4.6 kilometers) one way, with an elevation gain of 535 feet (163 meters).
The trail features several other idyllic waterfalls and plenty of photo opportunities, so those with the time and inclination will love it. Although this hike isn't technical, there are some steep sections, so a decent fitness level and good mobility are necessary.
After the first set of waterfalls, you'll come to another cascade called Arnarfossar, offering fantastic fjord views. The following section is relatively flat and can be swampy, depending on how much it has rained recently.
About 40-60 minutes into the trek, you'll reach the last waterfall of the Vestdalsfossar waterfalls trail. It features a spectacular rock lookout point from which to appreciate the cascade.
From there, you'll walk back to the road. Because this is technically a one-way trail, you'll finish at a different exit point, the western trailhead. From there, you must walk back along the road to the Vestdalsfossar car park (eastern trailhead). Of course, you could walk back the way you came for a longer walk.
Walking the trail in the opposite direction (from the western to eastern trailhead) is also possible. However, the east-west walk lets you leave your car in the car park. Plus, the waterfalls are most impressive when walking towards them rather than coming up from behind them.
When to Visit Vestdalsfossar Waterfalls and Good to Know
The Vestdalsfossar waterfalls track is a wood-chipped path. The orange-brown of the wood chips contrasting against the green and grey countryside makes this trail easy to follow when the path is clear.
However, it can be almost impossible to follow when covered in snow and ice during winter. The summer season is the best time to walk this trail. Those exploring outside summer will need spikes on their shoes and navigation skills if exploring beyond the first set of waterfalls.
The Vestdalsfossar waterfalls track is lesser known, and it maintains its remote beauty through the lack of artificial structures like barriers and ropes. Therefore, it requires respect to understand your limits when exploring these wild landscapes.
Adventurous travelers may wish to extend their hike to Vestdalsvatn Lake. Instead of walking to the road from the last of the Vestdalsfossar waterfalls, you'll see other waterfalls, marking the continuation of the trail to Vestdalsvatn Lake. The 2.86-mile (4.6-kilometer) Vestdalsfossar waterfalls hike takes approximately 2.5-3.5 hours to complete. Those following the trail to Vestdalsvatn Lake should expect the trek to take around 4.5 hours. The Vestdalsvatn Lake trail is 8.4 miles (13.4 kilometers) with a 1942-foot (592-meter) elevation gain.
Nearby Attractions
Seydisfjordur is rich in culture and nature, with many sites for travelers to discover. Those ready to chase more waterfalls will love the out-and-back hiking trail from Fjardara lake. The 5.2-mile (8.4-kilometer) trek follows the Fjardara river through a birch forest, passing numerous waterfalls.
To immerse yourself in Seydisfjordur's art and culture scene, visit the Skaftfell Art Center to marvel at the modern art exhibitions and grab a bite at the on-site restaurant.
The Technical Museum of East Iceland is also in Seydisfjordur, a superb place to witness Iceland's technological advancements in various fields.
Finally, take your time to stroll Seydisfjordur's enchanting streets and capture picture-perfect photos of the colorful streets and buildings. It's perhaps most well-known for the pretty blue Seydisfjordur church and rainbow street.
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