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Raudfeldsgja, or the Red-Cloak Rift, is a mossy canyon in Botnsfjall Mountain found on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Scenic views, a bubbling stream, and summer greenery make Raudfeldsgja a great hiking destination in warmer months. Here’s everything you need to know before your visit.
The Raudfeldsgja Gorge on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula provides an unforgettable summer hiking experience, with its towering cliffs covered in moss and a stream flowing through the narrow crevasse. Reaching deeper sections requires climbing through the river and small waterfalls, so warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy waterproof shoes are essential.
The name comes from the 14th-century Icelandic saga "Bárðar saga Snæfellsáss", which tells of Bárður, a half-giant and guardian spirit of the region. In the tale, Rauðfeldur pushes Bárður’s daughter onto an iceberg, which drifts out to sea. In a fit of rage, Bárður throws Rauðfeldur into the gorge in revenge. The gorge has since been known as Rauðfeldsgjá, meaning “Rauðfeldur’s Gorge.”
The gorge is within easy reach of the main road and an excellent addition to self-drive tours of Snaefellsjokull National Park. Read on for more about Raudafeldsgja Gorge.
Key Things to Know about Raudfeldsgja Canyon
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The Raudfeldsgja Gorge is a short but scenic stop on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, which only takes around 30 minutes out of your trip.
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The outdoor portion of the Raudfeldsgja Gorge hike is easy, while the portion inside the canyon can be moderately challenging.
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The gorge has no travel facilities except for a parking area. The nearby towns of Arnarstapi and Hellnar offer accommodations and dining options for visitors.
Hiking at the Raudfeldsgja Gorge
The hike through Raudfeldsgja Gorge offers a moderately challenging and rewarding adventure that typically takes under 30 minutes to complete, depending on how far into the canyon you choose to explore.
The approach to the gorge involves a short uphill trail across rocky and sometimes muddy terrain, with panoramic views of the surrounding Snaeellsnes Peninsula emerging behind you as you climb. This trail is well-trodden and popular for hiking, running, and walking, especially between June and September when conditions are safest.
Once you reach the gorge's dramatic opening, a narrow fissure in the cliffside, you can choose to venture inside. Entering the gorge is optional but highly recommended for adventurous hikers. A shallow stream runs through the canyon floor, and navigating deeper requires stepping on wet rocks or into ankle-deep water.
Inside, moss-covered walls rise steeply around you, and light filters down from above, creating a magical atmosphere. Just a short distance in, a small waterfall cascades down the inner wall—a hidden gem only visible to those willing to wade in a bit further.
For those continuing deeper into the narrow passage, waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking boots with good grip, and a reasonable fitness level are essential. The terrain becomes increasingly slick and uneven, and you may need to scramble or use your hands for balance. While the hike isn't technical, the enclosed space and wet conditions require careful footing and caution.
Raudfeldsgja Gorge Safety Tips
Please be courteous to other hikers on the trail and take care of the slippery stones inside the gorge. The Raudfeldsgja trail can get too slippery and freeze outside of the summer months.
Visiting in winter can be challenging due to icy conditions, so visit the gorge itself is not recommended. If you plan to visit, bring crampons and dress warmly. Snow and ice can make certain areas difficult or dangerous to navigate. If the ground inside the canyon is icy, we do not recommend entering the Raudfeldsgja gorge at all.
How to Get to Raudfeldsgja Gorge
Raudfeldsgja Gorge lies approximately 117 miles (189 kilometers) northeast of Reykjavik, which you can easily reach with a rental car. Head north along the Ring Road (Route 1) to Route 54 and keep following the road along the southern coastline of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Continue onto Utnesvegur Road, towards the Snaefellsjokull Glacier, and you will find the gorge just shy of the national park.
Raudfeldsgja has a parking area near the start of the hiking trail leading to the gorge's opening. The hike to the canyon entrance takes about 10-15 minutes.
Self-Drive Tours to Raudfeldsgja Gorge
You can easily reach the gorge on one of these top-rated self-drive tours of Iceland.
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10-Day Self-Drive Tour of the Ring Road & Snaefellsnes Peninsula — Experience the best of Iceland as you drive the entire Ring Road, including the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, the Golden Circle, and the Blue Lagoon.
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1-Week Self-Drive Tour of West and South Iceland — Take the adventure of a lifetime on this full week in Iceland, including visits to the South Coast, Golden Circle, and Snaefellsness Peninsula.
Sites and Landmarks Near Raudfeldsgja Gorge
Raudfeldsgja Gorge is right on the edge of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Don't miss an opportunity to visit many other landmarks and places of interest while in the region:
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On the drive to Raudfeldsgja Gorge, you will pass by the Gerduberg Basalt Cliffs and the Ytri Tunga Beach, ideal for seal-watching.
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The volcanic Londrangar Sea Stacks and the Djupalonssandur Beach are just 8 miles (11 kilometers) and 11 miles (18 kilometers) away, respectively, from the gorge, making them easy stops to include in a Raudfeldsgja day trip.
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The iconic Kirkjufell Mountain, Kirkjufellsfoss Waterfall, the cultural site of Bjarnarhofn, and the historic fishing village of Stykkisholmur, while a further drive away, will close the loop of your scenic tour of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
Raudfeldsgja Gorge FAQs
Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about visiting Raudfeldsgja Gorge:
1. Is there an entrance fee to access Raudfeldsgja Gorge?
There is no entrance fee to access Raudfeldsgja Gorge. Visitors can explore the area freely.
2. What facilities are available near the gorge?
There are no restrooms, shops, or other amenities at the gorge, so visitors should come prepared with water, snacks, and proper gear.
3. Can children visit Raudfeldsgja Gorge?
Children can visit Raudfeldsgja Gorge; however, parents should closely supervise them, especially when navigating the narrow and slippery paths inside the gorge. The hike can be challenging, so it's important to assess whether it is suitable for your child.
4. Can I swim in the water inside the gorge?
We do not recommend swimming, as the water inside the gorge is extremely cold. However, visitors should expect to walk through shallow water to explore further.
5. Are drones allowed at Raudfeldsgja Gorge?
There are no official restrictions on drones at the gorge, but visitors should be mindful of others and avoid disturbing wildlife. It’s always best to check for any updated drone regulations before flying.
What to Explore After Raudfeldsgja Gorge
Raudfeldsgja Gorge is just one of many unforgettable stops on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. With its towering cliffs, hidden waterfall, and rich folklore, it’s the kind of place that stays with you long after your boots are dry.
Ready to keep exploring the area around Raudfeldsgja Gorge? Check out Top 16 Things to Do on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
