Stuðlagil Canyon Hike

The Stuðlagil canyon hike leads to one of the most remarkable basalt column formations in Iceland. In Jökuldalur valley in the east, the glacial river Jökla has carved a canyon lined with towering hexagonal columns. Since the Kárahnjúkar hydropower dam upstream reduced the river's flow, the water often runs a striking blue-green in early summer. For years the canyon was largely overlooked; today it is one of the most photographed places in the east.

There are two ways to see it. From the west side, a short walk from a car park leads to a viewing platform with stairs above the canyon. From the east side, a longer walk of nearly 5 km each way takes you down to the canyon floor, where you can stand among the columns at the water's edge. This page covers the east-side hike, about 9.5 km round trip.

The walk is easy, mostly on a wide gravel track with little climbing, and it passes the waterfall Stuðlafoss, itself framed by basalt columns, on the way. The only steeper part is the short scramble down into the gorge at the end. Allow extra time for photos, as the shapes of the columns change constantly as you move along the canyon.

Highlights

• Basalt columns lining a turquoise glacial river
• Walking down to the canyon floor among the columns
• Stuðlafoss waterfall framed by basalt
• The quiet, wide valley of Jökuldalur

The route

Getting to the trailhead

Stuðlagil is in Jökuldalur, about an hour's drive from Egilsstaðir. Turn off the Ring Road onto Route 923 (Jökuldalsvegur). For the east-side hike, continue to the car park just past the Klaustursel bridge; a second, paid car park further along the track near Stuðlafoss cuts the walk to roughly 2.5–2.8 km each way. For the west-side viewing platform, park at the car park at the farm Grund. Route 923 is gravel in parts but usually fine for a normal car in summer; parking fees may apply.

Where to stay

Egilsstaðir, the main town in east Iceland, has hotels, guesthouses and a campsite, as does the forested area of Hallormsstaður. There are also farm stays and guesthouses in Jökuldalur. Wild camping near the canyon is not permitted.

Best time to hike

Stuðlagil is best from late spring to early autumn. The river is usually blue-green until around August, when the reservoir upstream typically overflows and the water turns brown with glacial silt. The canyon is still spectacular then, but less colourful. Early morning and evening are quietest, with softer light on the columns.

Safety

Do not swim or wade in the river; glacial rivers are cold and fast, and flow can change quickly. The rocks on the canyon floor are slippery, so wear sturdy footwear with good grip. Stay back from the edges of the canyon rim. Check vedur.is before setting out, and call 112 in an emergency.