You definitely do NOT want to try to cross private property to get to the top of the trail to see Brúarfoss. The hike will be long (2.5 km each way) from the parking lot, for a three year old, but there are some smaller falls along the way.

The hike took me about 2 and a half hours in good weather. You should expect to take a bit longer if the trail is muddy. Check the weather report and be prepared. Enjoy.

We used WAZE as our navigator. We typed in Bruarfoss and it took us to the parking lot just after the bridge. From there we followed the directions on the internet. The first half of the trail is easy to navigate. But when you get almost halfway the trail is blocked with a big sign saying no trespassing and private property. From there the trail goes tot he right and up a small hill then cross country until you come out on a road. Make a left on the gravel road and follow it for about 3/4 of a mile. Then follow the small wooden signs that direct you back into the path thru thick brush and next to the creek again. Then up to the waterfall. It is worth the trouble. The falls are incredible because of the color of the water. Takes 45-60 minutes.

Going by car gives you the freedom to stop whenever you want and stay as long as you want to. It is no faster because the entire country is two lane roads so you go as slow as the slowest person on the highway no matter if you are in a bus or in a car. The bus allows you to relax and sleep as you drive, so that is a plus for the bus. Cars are unbelievably expensive to rent. They are ridiculously costly, so there's that to consider as well. It depends on who you are and what you want to do. I am a car guy, so I rented a car and it was fantastic!

We parked at the lot near 355 and 37. I believe this was the official lot and the correct way to hike it up until recently. I cannot comment on the new closures.

Yes37

The waterfall is not closed. The route neither though it is slightly obstructed but a lot of tourists go anyway. We did too and loved it.

I would definitely recommend hiking boots. If there is moisture in the air there will be a ton of mud and all kinds of climbing up and down banks, so wear hiking boots.