Sigöldufoss

The water drops over dark rock into a pale blue pool. Its scale is smaller than Iceland's major roadside waterfalls, but the close rock walls and changing flow give it a distinct shape. This is also a managed river landscape: Tungnaá is dammed upstream to form Krókslón, and much of its water is directed through Sigöldustöð.

Sigöldustöð entered service on December 13, 1978. The power system reduced the normal flow over Sigöldufoss, so older photographs can show more or less water than you encounter. The waterfall and the station are parts of one connected water system.

Ásahreppur says the former route to Sigöldufoss and the area around it are closed for safety during the expansion, with restrictions expected to remain through 2029. Do not follow an old map pin, track or trip report into the work area. Obey barriers and signs even if the ground looks passable.

The municipality announced a signed viewpoint north of Tungnaá, reached from Fjallabaksleið nyrðri, with a view toward the construction area and part of the waterfall. Because work changes over time, use that viewpoint only when current signs direct you there. There is no reliable fixed visit time while access remains restricted.

The station expansion runs from 2026 to 2029. During planned shutdowns, water may be directed back through the former river channel, changing both the color and volume at Sigöldufoss and nearby Sigöldugljúfur. Contractor traffic and construction noise are also expected around Sigöldustöð.

For the next few years, expect an active work setting and a variable river rather than a consistent, quiet waterfall scene.

An older view of Sigöldufoss shows the segmented drop; water flow varies with hydropower operations.

Check Umferðin on the day you travel. A road that is shown on a map may be closed, rough or unsuitable for your rental vehicle. Then check the Icelandic Meteorological Office for wind, rain and warnings. The site's construction status does not make the surrounding roads safer.

Sigöldugljúfur remains a separate canyon stop and should not be confused with the restricted waterfall approach. If you are deciding whether to enter Fjallabak at all, use the Highlands road-planning guide before leaving paved roads.

Sigöldugljúfur is nearby but separate from the restricted approach to Sigöldufoss.