Stuðlagil Canyon is yet another example of Iceland’s capricious — and at times seemingly impossible — geography. It’s a jewel of the Land of Ice and Fire.
Famous for its striking basalt columns, this natural wonder has yet to reach the fame of the Golden Circle, but since 2017, it’s held a special place on the radar of travelers seeking sites off the beaten path.
That year, an airline captured a series of stunning photographs of Stuðlagil Canyon and featured them in brochures that circulated around the world. Combined with the power of social media, this spurred a growing desire among travelers to see for themselves how the dark basalt walls contrast with the intense blue of the water.
The Origin of Stuðlagil’s Basalt Columns
Stuðlagil Canyon is a perfect example of why Iceland is known as the Land of Ice and Fire: its formation results from both volcanic activity and the erosive force of one of the country’s great glacial rivers.
To get a broad-strokes understanding of how the canyon formed, we need to go back about two million years. According to geologists, these hexagonal columns were formed from a massive lava flow that, as it cooled, contracted into its distinctive shape.
It’s worth noting that Stuðlagil’s basalt columns are not unique in Iceland. In fact, the island is filled with this particular type of rock. Perhaps the most famous examples are those at the black-sand beach of Reynisfjara, where scenes from Game of Thrones were filmed.
Other well-known basalt formations can be found at Svartifoss Waterfall in Vatnajökull National Park, at Gerðuberg on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and at Hljóðaklettar in northeastern Iceland, among others.
With so many basalt columns across the country, you might wonder why Stuðlagil garners so much attention. The answer lies in the sheer abundance of columns here—and the fact that they are likely the tallest in Iceland.
Adding to the magic is the Jökla River, whose glacial waters turn a brilliant turquoise at certain times of the year.
The surrounding greenery enhances the view, creating a postcard-perfect scene that’s hard for photography lovers to resist.
The Engineering Project That Changed Everything
There’s a reason why Stuðlagil’s basalt columns only recently came to light: until a few years ago, they were completely submerged underwater. But in this case, human intervention changed the landscape—for the better.
In 2009, Iceland completed the construction of the Kárahnjúkar Hydropower Plant. By retaining and diverting the Jökla River’s waters into the newly formed Hálslón reservoir, the hydropower plant reduced the river’s flow enough to expose the canyon below.
As with any major infrastructure project, the dam sparked some controversy. However, for geologists, the exposed columns provide an invaluable opportunity to study the origins of this remarkable island.
Where Is Stuðlagil Canyon and How Do You Get There?
Stuðlagil Canyon is located in eastern Iceland, in the upper part of the Jökuldalur Valley, an area known for its sheep and for the glacial Jökla River.
On its more than 150 km journey to the Atlantic Ocean, the river has sculpted the landscape from the Highlands down to the valley floor.
The nearest town is Egilsstaðir, located about 72 km east of the canyon. Reykjavík, the capital, is nearly 600 km away. Given its remote location, Stuðlagil remains relatively untouched by mass tourism.
Despite the distance, Iceland’s excellent road system makes the canyon reachable by two routes—but only one of them offers the iconic views you’ve probably seen on social media.
The first option (and the least recommended) is to drive to Grund Farm, on the canyon’s west side. There, you’ll find a parking lot and a viewing platform with stairs that offer an elevated view of the basalt columns and the river.
The downside? The angle is limited, and the magic of the canyon is lost in the distance. It’s a pale imitation of the real Stuðlagil experience.
The Best Views Are Found From the East
The experience is completely different if you approach from the east side. To do so, take Ring Road 1 and head south at Skjödólfsstaðir. Then continue on Road 923 for about 14 km until you reach Klaustursel Farm. Just before the bridge over the Jökla River, you’ll find a place to park.
From there, the journey continues on foot: cross the bridge and take the trail that veers to the right. It’s an easy-to-follow 5 km path along the edge of the canyon that leads you straight to the most spectacular viewpoints.
This is where most of the iconic photos are taken—the perfectly aligned basalt columns, the turquoise water, and an overwhelming sense of wonder.
If you feel up to descending to the river’s edge, you’ll see the canyon from a whole new perspective. The descent is not entirely easy, but with the right footwear and a bit of care, it’s possible — and absolutely worth it.
The Best Time to Visit Stuðlagil Canyon
As mentioned earlier, the Jökla River doesn’t maintain its turquoise color year-round. If you want to see the canyon at its most vibrant, visit in summer, ideally before mid-August.
After that, the reservoir fills, the river water changes color, and the lush greenery fades. The canyon remains majestic—but the postcard look is different.
During summer, however, there are up to 20 hours of daylight per day, and the river shines in that turquoise hue that photographers dream of. If you’re one of them, the best shots are taken in the morning.
In a country where every bend in the road reveals another geological wonder, Stuðlagil Canyon remains one of those rare secrets worth the effort. It may not appear in every guidebook—but that’s exactly what makes it so special.
If you’re traveling to Iceland in search of awe, don’t think twice — add it to your itinerary. Some places are simply unforgettable—and this is undoubtedly one of them.
