How long is the hike to the hot river?

The trail is approximately 3.5 km each way (7 km round trip) and gains elevation as it heads up from Hveragerði into the valley.

How far is Reykjadalur from Reykjavík?

The trailhead in Hveragerði is approximately 45 km east of Reykjavík on Route 1, usually around a 45-minute drive.

Can I bathe in the Reykjadalsá?

Yes — the Reykjadalsá is a naturally heated geothermal river with bathing areas in the upper valley. Basic changing facilities are available near the river.

Sturdy waterproof footwear, warm layers, a towel, and swimwear if you plan to bathe. Weather in the highlands can change quickly — check local forecasts before setting out.

Iceland/south-iceland

Reykjadalur Hot River Hike

A popular geothermal hike from Hveragerði to the warm Reykjadalsá river, where bathing is possible in the designated stretch.

At a Glance

Visit time

3.5 km each way (7 km round trip). Most visitors allow 3–4 hours for the full round trip, including time at the river.

Best season

Summer (June–August) offers the most daylight for the hike. The valley is open year-round, though conditions vary by season.

Access

The trailhead is just outside Hveragerði, approximately 45 km east of Reykjavík via Route 1.

GPS

64.0297, -21.2103

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About

About Reykjadalur Hot River Hike

A popular geothermal hike from Hveragerði to the warm Reykjadalsá river, where bathing is possible in the designated stretch.

Reykjadalur offers a rare chance to hike into an active geothermal landscape and bathe in a naturally heated river. The Reykjadalsá flows warm from underground volcanic heat, and the surrounding valley is draped in steam vents, colourful mineral soils, and sweeping views across the Hengill volcanic system.

Photos

Photo Gallery

The trail passes steaming ground, hot springs and active geothermal features before reaching the warm river. Visitors should stay on marked paths, use only the designated bathing stretch and check current trail conditions or closures before setting out, especially in winter or wet weather.

Folklore

Story & Folklore

The Reykjadalsá — whose name translates roughly as the river of the Steam Valley — runs through one of Iceland's most accessible geothermal landscapes. The Hengill volcanic area that cups the valley is one of the largest high-temperature geothermal fields in Iceland and has long supplied district heating to nearby Hveragerði. Long before modern tourism, travellers from the town knew the hot river as a natural bathing place; today the same valley draws visitors from around the world on foot.

💡 Did You Know?

The 2008 Ölfus earthquake, centred near Hveragerði, measurably increased geothermal activity in the Reykjadalur valley — new steam vents appeared along the hillside and water temperatures in several pools rose noticeably in the days following the event.

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