Hljóðaklettar Echo Rocks: Basalt Wonders of Vesturdalur

Hljóðaklettar: The Echo Rocks of North Iceland

Imagine a forest of stone where basalt columns twist in every direction, curl into giant rosettes and arch over caves. That is Hljóðaklettar (often written Hljodaklettar), the "Echo Rocks", in the Vesturdalur valley of Vatnajökull National Park. Few places in the world show the inside of a volcano so clearly, and it is one of the most surprising walks in North Iceland.

Why Are They Called the Echo Rocks?

Hljóðaklettar means "sounding rocks". Stand among the cliffs by the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river and the rock walls throw sound back in strange ways, so the roar of the river and voices seem to come from the wrong direction. Try calling out and listen.

How Hljóðaklettar Formed

Hljóðaklettar are the remains of a row of volcanic craters, about 6 km long, that erupted some 8,000–9,000 years ago. Magma cooled inside the craters' vents and cracked into columns. Later, enormous glacial floods down the Jökulsá washed away the loose ash and cinders, leaving the hardened insides of the volcanoes exposed. Because the lava cooled from many sides at once, the columns run horizontally, vertically and in spirals, forming patterns that are rare anywhere on Earth. Look for Kirkjan, "the Church", a domed cave named long ago for its vaulted shape.

Nearby, the red slopes of Rauðhólar show what the craters looked like before the floods.

Hiking Trails at Hljóðaklettar

Source: Vatnajökull National Park

The Hljóðaklettar circle is the classic walk, taking you through the best formations and down to the river. Please stay on the marked paths, as the vegetation here is fragile.

How to Get to Hljóðaklettar

Hljóðaklettar are in Vesturdalur, about 15 km south of Ásbyrgi, reached by road 862 and a paved access road to the car park. There is a national park campsite in Vesturdalur. Don't miss the viewpoint at Langavatnshöfði on the way, with views over the canyon.

From Aurora Farm Hotel, allow about 1 hour 30 minutes each way. The easiest plan is to combine Hljóðaklettar with Ásbyrgi in one day, or continue south on road 862 to Dettifoss, Europe's most powerful waterfall, and return to Aurora Farm via Mývatn.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hljóðaklettar worth visiting? Yes, especially if you love geology or photography. It is far less crowded than Dettifoss or Ásbyrgi.

How long is the Hljóðaklettar hike? The main circle is 3 km and takes 1–1.5 hours.

Is Hljóðaklettar suitable for children? Yes. The short trail to Tröllið is easy, and children love the caves and rock shapes.

Where can I stay near Hljóðaklettar? Aurora Farm Hotel in Reykjadalur, with private geothermal hot springs and the wood-fired Þorgrímur Restaurant. Book your stay.