Stuðlagil Canyon: Iceland’s Hidden Basalt Paradise

Stuðlagil Canyon is Located in the Jökuldalur valley in eastern part, not far from the black beaches of the Eastfjords. This natural wonder boasts some of the most impressive basalt column formations in the world, drawing adventurers and photographers alike. Iceland is a land of breathtaking landscapes, but one of its most spectacular hidden gems is Stuðlagil Canyon.

A Geological Masterpiece:

Stuðlagil Canyon was formed thousands of years ago by volcanic activity and glacial erosion. The stunning basalt columns, created by the cooling of lava, line the canyon walls, creating a mesmerizing display of geometric formations. What makes this canyon even more captivating is the striking contrast between the dark basalt and the vibrant turquoise waters of the Jökla River, which flows through it.

The terrain around the canyon is still relatively untouched and like most of Iceland, the facilities are not in place. The terrain is loose underfoot in places, so hiking boots are advised. Be mindful of nesting birds, particularly in the Spring and Summer. Pink-footed geese, for example, lay their eggs along the gorge in May and June so be extra cautious around this time. It was so strong that it divided the valley Jökuldalur into two separate parts that didn't have much communication for centuries. It was a river that was both dangerous and difficult to cross. It was the only river in Iceland that became known by its nickname rather than either of its real names. 

The canyon is dominated by stunning hexagonal basalt columns. These columns are unerringly uniform in appearance. They look man made, rather than the result of solidified lava and formation of centuries. The canyon was completely submerged under the river Jökla. A few years ago, the water level of the river fell and revealed the canyon in all its glory. The Jökla is now a force of clarity and color. Previously, the water was sourced by glacial sediment, turning it a murky brown color. Now the river is fed by the crystal-clear waters of Hálslón Reservoir. As a result, the waters that flow through Stuðlagil Canyon are a vibrant turquoise. 

The river Jökla was once so fierce that it divided Jökuldalur Valley into two parts. Farmers and villagers on either side were completely cut off from each other. To solve this problem, locals built a dam across the river, causing the water level to fall. With the introduction of a nearby hydroelectric plant called Kárahnjúkavirkjun in 2009, the landscape of the area drastically changed. Hálslón was created in Eastern Iceland as a vast reservoir for water.

The water level decreased and with the hydroelectric plant harvesting the force of the water, the river was less fierce. This was a huge scale project at the time to provide the aluminium plant in Reyðarfjörður with electrical power. Now, that the water has calmed and the level reduced, this natural beauty is receiving a lot more attention from travellers and locals alike. There is a beautiful waterfall called Stuðlafoss (which translates as Basalt Column Waterfall) in Upper Jökuldalur. This is worth a visit if you have the time.

The Hidden Discovery:

Form centuries, Stuðlagil remained largely unknown because the Jökla River, fed by glacial meltwater, kept the canyon submerged. However, when the Kárahnjúkar Hydropower Plant was built in 2007, it significantly reduced the river’s water levels, revealing the stunning basalt formations hidden beneath. Since then, it has become one of Iceland’s most remarkable geological attractions.

How to Get There:

Stuðlagil Canyon is accessible via Route 1 (the Ring Road) and a detour along Route 923. Visitors can take two different routes to view the canyon:

The First option- where you can drive to the farm Grund and view the canyon from the west side of the canyon and the river. After turning south on Ring Road nr. 1 by Skjödólfsstaðir to road nr. 923, you drive to the farm Grund about 19 kilometers. At the farm, you will find a parking lot. Of the two viewing options, the west side is much less exciting and gives a minimal overview of the canyon.  The observation platform is oddly placed, has too many steps, and is not interesting as the platform provides a minimum view of the canyon's true beauty.   Thie west position is a complete waste of time for photographers as it is complicated to take a decent photograph of the canyon's beauty from Grund or the west side.  

The second one -  requires some hiking.  An effort that only adds to the enjoyment of visiting such a place. Again after turning south on Ring Road nr. 1 by Skjödólfsstaðir to road nr. 923, you drive to the farm Klaustursel about 14 kilometers, a bit less than driving to the farm Grund.  Here you find a bridge on the river Jökla by the farm Klaustursel that is on the other side, the east side.  By the bridge, there is a parking lot on the west side, and driving over the  bridge is not an option.  After walking over the bridge to the east riverbank, you take a hike on the track about four kilometers to the Stuðlagil canyon and is probably less of an effort and more interesting than the odd stairs on the west side by Grund.

The Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit Stuðlagil Canyon is during summer (June to August) when the Jökla River takes on its striking turquoise hue. During winter, the river's color changes, and icy conditions make hiking more challenging.

It is only interesting to visit Stuðlagil canyon in the summer, from the beginning of June until the second week of August. In August, the hydroelectric reservoir's overflow sends the old dirty glacial river down the river path. This is something that occurs every year in the middle of August and changes this natural wonder substantially.   In winter, the color of the vegetation disappears, and the canyon becomes dull in color and often loaded with snow and ice. It is not interesting for viewing or photography as in the colorful summer days when the river is turquoise green instead of brown and dirty

A Photographer’s Dream:

The canyon has become a hotspot for photographers due to its surreal beauty. The symmetrical basalt formations, the interplay of light and shadow, and the vibrant water create a perfect setting for breathtaking landscape photography.

 Places to Visit Near Stuðlagil Canyon:

Egilsstaðir - Stuðlagil Canyon is close to Egilsstaðir, a charming town with the largest population in East Iceland. Besides the many museums in town, you can also access great hiking and biking trails.

East Iceland Heritage Museum -  The region is also home to Iceland’s only wild reindeer herds. Learn more about these animals at the East Iceland Heritage Museum (Minjasafn Austurlands) in Egilsstaðir. 

Klaustursel Farm -  Just 2.5 miles (4 km) away from Studlagil, is an idyllic place to watch Icelandic reindeer up close. The farm is also famous for its handicrafts center, where you can buy souvenirs made of reindeer skin and horns.

Stuðlafoss Waterfall -  also known as the Basalt Column Waterfall, flows into a branch of the Jökla. The cascade pours down from moss-covered basalt columns.The spectacular choppy columns of  Stuðlafoss resemble an ancient throne. Visiting the beautiful basalt waterfall, you’ll feel as if you’ve discovered a forgotten corner of the world.  

An Unforgettable Experience:

Stuðlagil Canyon remains one of Iceland’s most enchanting and lesser-known attractions. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a nature lover, or a photography enthusiast, this geological wonder offers an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Iceland’s wilderness.