Day Hike to Grimannsfell: Helgufoss Waterfall and the Literary Legacy

by Hikers of Iceland · Hiking & trekking · Drive yourself there · Reykjavík

5.00(50) · operator on Google
Day Hike to Grimannsfell: Helgufoss Waterfall and the Literary Legacy — Hikers of Iceland

Would this be cheaper direct? No — we sell at Hikers of Iceland's own price and take our commission from them, not from you. What you get here is one checkout across operators, one confirmation, and one place to change or cancel it. If you ever find it cheaper on their own site, tell us and we will match it or explain why we cannot.

More photos of Day Hike to Grimannsfell: Helgufoss Waterfall and the Literary Legacy

Sign at the start of the trail to Grimmannsfell - meeting pointmeeting point and parking

7 photos from Hikers of Iceland. Tap any one for the full-size original.

  • Duration

    5 hours and 30 minutes

  • Difficulty

    Moderate

  • Season

    All year

  • Starts in

    Mosfellsbær

  • Languages

    EN, IT, ES

  • Departs

    10:00

  • Minimum age

    16

  • Cancellation

    Free until 24h before

Our take on this one

Eleven kilometres over Grímannsfell above Mosfellsbær, half an hour from Reykjavík, with 450 metres of climbing and admission to the Halldór Laxness museum included — the literary half is not decoration, this is the country the Nobel laureate wrote about and lived in. The trail is largely unmarked and crosses bogs and ditches before the steep pull to the top, so it asks for agility more than lungs. Ten o'clock start, back by 15:30, maximum fifteen people, certified mountain leader, and you bring lunch, water, waterproofs and boots. Age 16 and over. Hikers of Iceland run one tour a day, so check their other dates if this one shows nothing.

Book it if
Walkers who want a longer, wilder route than the tourist paths and like the Laxness connection at the end.
Skip it if
Unmarked, boggy ground for eleven kilometres — if you want a clear path and a view without the navigation, take the Móskarðshnjúkar day.

Written by us, from the operator's own details and what we know of the route. We don't take a fee for a good word.

About this experience

IF THIS ONE SHOWS UNAVAILABLE, CHECK OUR OTHER DAY TOURS as we run one tour per day.Hike Iceland for a short day.
  • 30 MINUTES DRIVE from Reykjavik city center
  • LENGTH: 11 km – 6,8 miles
  • ELEVATION GAIN: 450 m – 1470 ft
  • DIFFICULTY: Moderate
  • DURATION: 5,30hrs (plus driving time)
  • STARTING time: 10 (plus pick-up time)
  • ENDING time: 15.30 (plus drop-off time)
  • GROUP: up to 15 participants
  • AGE LIMIT: 16+
Join Us for an Exhilarating Day Hike to Grímannsfell

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure as we embark on a thrilling hike to Grímannsfell, a hidden gem that promises both challenge and reward. This wild, often unmarked trail is perfect for true adventurers, offering a raw and unspoiled experience of Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes. Along the way, we’ll traverse a diverse terrain of lush fields, soft bogs, and rugged ditches that demand agility and a spirit of exploration. As we ascend, a steep and exhilarating slope awaits, pushing us to new heights—both physically and mentally. But the reward? A summit that unveils some of Iceland’s most spectacular views, surrounded by lovely wilderness.

Stunning Views and Hidden Gems

Reaching the peak of Stórhóll, we’ll be greeted by sweeping panoramic vistas stretching over Iceland’s rugged terrain, a sight that few get to witness up close. Here, you’ll have time to take in the crisp mountain air and capture the beauty of this remote and untouched landscape. Our descent leads us to the enchanting Helgufoss Waterfall, a secluded oasis where the cascading water creates a peaceful retreat in the midst of the wild. This is the perfect spot to rest, take stunning photos, and soak in the tranquility of nature. The gentle sound of rushing water and the lush surroundings make this a truly magical stop on our journey.

Immerse Yourself in Icelandic Culture

The adventure continues. After our hike, we’ll step into the world of Halldór Laxness, Iceland’s only Nobel Prize-winning author. His former home, now a museum, offers a fascinating look into the life and creative mind of one of Iceland’s most celebrated literary figures. As you explore the house and stroll through the beautiful garden where Laxness found inspiration, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the country’s rich literary heritage and its deep connection to the dramatic landscapes surrounding us. Imagine walking the same paths that once sparked the imagination of a literary giant.

Expert Guidance for an Unforgettable Experience

Throughout this adventure, you’ll be guided by an experienced mountain leader with extensive knowledge of Iceland’s unique geology, flora, and fauna. Our expert guides ensure a safe, engaging, and enriching experience, sharing stories and insights that bring the landscape to life. Whether you’re fascinated by the natural wonders of Iceland or eager to learn more about its culture, you’ll come away with a deeper connection to this incredible land. Plus, our guides are always happy to share tips on how to best navigate Iceland’s wild terrain, making this journey both educational and thrilling.

Join Us for an Unforgettable Day Hike.

If you’re an avid hiker or an adventurous traveler seeking Iceland’s hidden treasures, this hike to Grímannsfell is an experience you won’t want to miss. From breathtaking landscapes to rich cultural history, this journey promises excitement, discovery, and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re conquering rugged trails, marveling at Iceland’s untouched beauty, or standing in the footsteps of a literary legend, every moment is sure to be extraordinary.


REMEMBER TO TAKE WITH YOU:

  1. Hiking shoes
  2. Waterproof jacket and pants
  3. 1 L of water
  4. Packed lunch
  5. Cap and (waterproof) gloves
  6. Spare t-shirt

Description from the operator, Hikers of Iceland. Prices and availability in the booking panel are live.

Included

Halldor Laxness Museum admission

Licenced and certified local guides

International Mountain Leader

Good to know

  1. Hiking shoes
  2. Waterproof jacket and pants
  3. Packed lunch
  4. 1 L of water
  5. Cap and (waterproof) gloves
  6. Spare t-shirt

Weather can change rapidly, be prepared for all conditions

Meet at the designated starting point 15 minutes before departure

Group sizes are kept small for a personalized experience

Cancellation for this tour

Free cancellation until 24 hours before departure; no refund after that. If the operator cancels for weather or safety, you get a full refund or a new date.

If the weather cancels this tour

Iceland's weather is real. What usually stops this one is wind above the treeline and river levels after rain — the guide decides on the day. Here is exactly what happens to your booking.

  1. 1Hikers of Iceland decides, and tells us. Operators cancel when it is unsafe or pointless, and we back that call every time — we do not ask them to run anyway.
  2. 2We contact you by email, and by phone if your tour is the same or next day. You choose: another date if there is one you can make, or a full refund. There is no fee and nothing to argue.
  3. 3The refund goes back to the card you paid with, through Stripe, usually visible within a few working days. If this tour was one of several in your booking, the others are untouched.

What you do not get is the day back. If this is the only free day in your plan, put a spare day next to it — the planner leaves days free with the rest-day option. And if you want out because the forecast looks bad, that is your own cancellation: free until 1 day before departure, the operator's policy after that.

Questions on the day: [email protected] · +354 497 1373. How cancellations work in Iceland →

Why this one and not the cheaper one?

The nearest cheaper History Talks Back A Viking Walk with Melkorka from Prinsessur ehf is €25 — €70 less. Here is every difference we can actually measure.

Hikers of Iceland · €95Prinsessur ehf · €25
How long it runs5.5 hours1 hour
How hard it isModerateEasy

The €70 buys you 4.5 more hours out. Whether that is worth it is your call — but that is what the difference is.

Sold out on your date?

Seats come back — a cancellation, or the operator adding a vehicle. Tell us the date and we will check once a day and email you if one opens. One email, then we delete the address; nothing else is ever sent to it.

Who this is not for

  • Not for families with children under 16 — the operator will not take them, even with a parent.

Read off the operator's own conditions. If none of it applies to you, this is a good one.

Why we list it

Hikers of Iceland is one of 154 operators we work with — chosen for reliability, honest descriptions and how they treat guests when weather changes plans. We don't list everything; we list what we'd book ourselves. The six checks every operator passes →

What travellers say about Hikers of Iceland

Read all 50 reviews on Google →

Operator rating 5.0/5 from Google — these are reviews of the company, not this specific tour. Shown as Google returns them, unedited.

  • Candace Marbury

    ★★★★★ · a month ago

    Must see and do! I am not an avid hiker or adventurer and this kickstarted a whole new exploration for me. This was my first 4 day trek and I can’t wait to do it again! Roberto was an amazing guide that offered the perfect blend of adventure with security, freedom with direction and fun with agenda. I saw amazing waterfalls, glaciers, natural hot springs, wildlife, and of course, mountains. Iceland offers an incredibly diverse landscape and Roberto orchestrated the perfect blend. Even if you’ve already visited Iceland 100 times, I am confident you will uncover more gems. I will remember this trip forever. Highly recommend taking a hike or trek with Hikers of Iceland.

  • Luigi Fornaro

    ★★★★★ · a year ago

    Where can i even start from? The tour with the best guide Roberto has been just amazing. As soon as we arrived at the airport Roberto welcomed us kindly and reassuringly and made us start this awesome experience in his van!! I was a bit anxious on the tracking parts, but Roberto made them be comfortable, exciting and really funny. Every little problem encountered was solved with positivity and lots of laughter. Roberto took us to the most suggestive and marvellous places of Iceland, also the even the lesser known ones, accompanying us to the complete discovery of a culture rich in traditions and nature. At the end of the 10 days, we were all satisfied and so happy (a little sad to be leaving 😂). He made us love Iceland one waterfall at time! We saw almost the whole country, starting from Reykjavik, going into lagoons, glaciers, waterfalls, rivers, caves, beaches, volcanos, mountains, farms, canyons, forests, ocean, admiring starry skies and a lot of cute animals! A must for the ones who love travelling and exploring new countries, where you can see the 4 natural elements (water earth fire air)in their maximum expression, in a place where the man didn’t change or ruin them. Hikers of Iceland is the TOP, and Roberto is of course the best!

  • Matt Snyders

    ★★★★★ · a year ago

    Roberto led a group of 16 on a trek along the Laugavegur Trail and Fimmvörðuháls Pass in early July, 2025. His knowledge of the trail allowed us to not only traverse it with ease, but also allowed for some deviations that only a seasoned guide could provide; hidden gems just slightly off the beaten path. He was very knowledgeable about the area and was able to communicate his knowledge in English, Italian, Spanish, and Icelandic, providing small details whenever we were. This was paid in spades with the phenomenal locations we had each day to stop for lunch. Vistas overlooking expansive valleys, creekside meadows where time seemed to stop, or mountain tops with rocks buffering the battering wind to create a sense of serenity, Roberto knew them all. He handled any challenges with expertise and was always prepared to make any transition from trail to hut or vice versa a smooth and seamless one. If there was one area where Roberto outshone his trail expertise, it was in his humanity. A group of 16 from Canada, Quebec, England, Germany, The Netherlands, and the USA, with ages ranging from 23 to 60+, understandably has a wide variety of personalities and hiking abilities. Roberto made time for each person, getting to know them and walking with them at various times to create a sense of cohesion. He was up early making breakfast, got right on dinner after a long day of hiking, and was ready to patch anyone up who developed bumps or strains along the way, and he did it with humour, humility, and expertise. If you’re looking for a guide to show you Iceland, look no further than Roberto. He checks off all the boxes and will lighten your load with his love of the landscape and shining personality.

  • Jasmine Garside

    ★★★★★ · a month ago

    We had a fantastic trip in Iceland — Roberto took us off the beaten track to give us an authentic adventure while keeping us safe and entertained. A professional guide who gives great guidance to suit hikers of all levels. Highly recommend! Thank you, Roberto for a memorable trip trekking, glacier hiking, ice climbing, waterfall hunting, hot pool dunking and all your tips, jokes and stories.

Reviews from Google · updated 13 Sept 2026

Reviews from our travellers

Only people who booked this tour through us can write here. We publish every review in full — good or bad.

No reviews yet from our travellers on this one. After your tour we send one email asking how it was, and what you write goes here, unedited.

Hiking & trekking — questions people ask

When can you hike in Landmannalaugar?

Late June to September. The highland roads to Landmannalaugar are closed by snow the rest of the year, and the opening date shifts with the weather each summer. In season, day tours from Reykjavík (/experience/16823/) run about fourteen hours with a three- to five-hour guided hike and a soak in the hot river. If you have your own 4x4, the meet-on-location hike (/experience/254326/) skips the bus.

How hard is the Laugavegur trek?

Moderate to hard. It is 55 kilometres over four days from Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk, with river crossings, snow patches in July and weather that can turn to sleet in August. You do not need technical skills, but you need to carry a pack and walk five to eight hours a day. Guided treks (/experience/738812/) handle logistics and camping gear; the luggage transfer (/experience/1036525/) lets self-guided walkers carry a day pack only.

Can you hike to the volcano near Reykjavík?

Yes, when it is safe. The Reykjanes eruption sites at Fagradalsfjall and around Grindavík have drawn hikers since 2021, and guided tours (/experience/629086/, /experience/620679/) follow the routes the Civil Protection authority has open. If there is an active eruption, access changes daily and tours adapt or pause. The lava is usually cooled and crusted; you see fresh black rock and steam, not flowing lava. Wear boots; the ground is rough.

What should I pack for a day hike in Iceland?

Waterproof jacket and trousers, not a poncho; the wind will shred it. Hiking boots with ankle support, wool or synthetic layers, hat, gloves, sunglasses and a packed lunch with two litres of water. In the highlands add a warm mid-layer even in July. Guides carry first aid and route knowledge, not your rain gear. Cotton jeans and trainers are the most common reason people have a miserable day.

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from

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