Hafragilsfoss

Hafragilsfoss is a waterfall on the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river in northeast Iceland. It is located in the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon, within Vatnajökull National Park. The waterfall is part of a sequence of falls along the canyon that also includes Dettifoss and Selfoss, making the area a popular destination for visitors exploring Iceland's northeast.

Geology and scenery: The river has carved a deep gorge through volcanic bedrock, and Hafragilsfoss cascades from a high ledge into the canyon below. The surrounding cliffs are formed from layered basalt and volcanic deposits, creating a dramatic landscape that is especially noted for its scale and mist on meltwater days.

Name and significance: The name Hafragilsfoss derives from Hafragil, the geological feature or area name associated with the canyon, with "foss" meaning waterfall in Icelandic. The falls contribute to the pronounced scenery of the Jökulsárgljúfur region, which is often highlighted in guides for its dramatic river gorge and multiple waterfalls.

Access and visiting: The area is remote and mainly reachable by local roads and well-marked hiking trails. Access is best in summer when roads are passable and facilities are limited in the immediate vicinity. Many visitors combine a visit to Hafragilsfoss with Dettifoss and Selfoss, which are part of the same canyon system.

Conservation: Hafragilsfoss lies within a protected national park area, and visitors are asked to stay on marked paths to protect fragile vegetation and reduce erosion.