Stuðlagil
Welcome to Stuðlagil!
There are however good reasons for every visitor to start by
reading these few words of caution.
Whether we call the river the Jökla or Jökulsá á Dal, the Icelandic root word jökull means glacier and should make us wary of glacial river characteristics. Such rivers can have dangerous currents even when they don't appear to be flowing fast or flooding. These currents are unpredictable and may overcome any swimmer, causing life-threatening situations in an instant. Only people with considerable experience of this place can see how the currents interact. Therefore, we beg every guest neither to swim nor to dive off rocks and cliffs. The river banks may also be slippery, leading to falls and accidents.
Please show caution while travelling, as well as respect for sensitive nature!
Stuðlagil canyon is a unique place in Jökuldalur, Austurland. The gorge was little known for a long time, as it was not fully revealed until after the Kárahnjúkar Power Plant was taken into use and the water level in Jökulsá á Dal (Jökla) decreased. As a result, one of the largest and most beautiful columnar basalt formations in Iceland is now on display. It is incredibly photogenic, especially when the water in the river is clear.
Note that there are two very different ways to see Stuðlagil canyon. One way is to stop at Grund, from where it is a brief walk down to the gorge. But, unfortunately, it is not possible to go down into the canyon on that side. On the other hand, it is possible to walk about 5 kilometers from Klaustursel farm to the gorge, but you can get into the canyon on that side.
Hiking Trail from Klaustursel farm to Stuðlagil Canyon
Drive south of the ring road (road no. 1) through Jökuldalur, onto road number 923. From there are about 14 kilometers to Klaustursel farm. Note that you must not drive over the bridge, but park in the car park on the west side. From there, you walk over the bridge and continue along a 5-kilometer long path, to the place where you can get into Stuðlagil canyon. Along the way is a beautiful waterfall, Stuðlafoss, which falls from a steep basalt boulder. This hiking trail is over 10 kilometers long in total and could easily take 3 hours, including stops by Stuðlagil and Stuðlafoss.
It is a fantastic experience to go down into the gorge and see the columnar basalt all around. However, when reaching the gorge, keep in mind that rocks and cliffs can be wet and very slippery.
Observation platforms by Grund
Drive south of the ring road (road no. 1) through Jökuldalur just past Skjöldólfsstaðir, onto road number 923. From there are about 19 kilometers to Grund. At Grund, there are parking spaces, toilets and safe access to the gorge with stairs and platforms. It only takes about 5 minutes to walk to Stuðlagil canyon. There is a good view down into the gorge and over the diverse basalt columns.
Note that the river changes color if there is an overflow in Hálslón. Overflow is most common from the beginning of August until October. Here you can follow the water level of the reservoir on Landsvirkjun's website.
It is also essential to keep in mind the nature of the area is fragile. Stuðlagil is a new destination, and the attendance is high. Guests are especially encouraged to respect the environment and be tidy. During the period from May 1st to June 10th, numerous pink-footed geese nest in the area. During that time, visitors need to stay within marked walking paths and give the birds enough space.
Further information at Stuðlagil's website .
