Skaftafellsjökull
National Park, Glaciers, Hikings
Skaftafellsjökull, Skaftafell, South Iceland
Hjálparfoss (“Help Waterfall”) is a twin-channelled cascade on the river Fossá in the lower Þjórsárdalur valley, historically valued by travellers as a reliable freshwater source on the old highland route. Today it is celebrated for its striking visual symmetry — two broad curtains of water that merge into a single turquoise pool.
The waterfall sits in front of a sweeping amphitheatre of columnar basalt, and the surrounding lava field is carpeted with wildflowers in summer. The combination of geometric rock formations and vivid water colour makes Hjálparfoss an outstanding photographic subject.
The site is easily reached via Route 32 near Flúðir, and a short, well-marked trail leads from the car park to the pool’s edge. It pairs naturally with a visit to nearby Háifoss and the Gjáin hidden valley.
