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After seeing images on-line of the other-worldly Stuðlagil Canyon in Iceland, I knew that we completely needed to go to on our journey round Iceland’s Ring Street. As anticipated, it offered one of the jaw-dropping views of all our travels in Iceland.
Although pop Stuðlagil Canyon into Google Maps and also you’ll get some conflicting details about the Stuðlagil Canyon viewpoints. There are other ways to see the canyon, in addition to completely different views to soak up.
Uncover the whole lot you could find out about exploring Stuðlagil Canyon, together with tips about acquiring essentially the most fascinating views of this Instagram-worthy gem.
All About Stuðlagil Canyon
One of many issues that makes the views at Stuðlagil Canyon so spectacular is the mixture of turquoise river waters flowing between partitions of hexagonal basalt columns. Each of those options can be spectacular sufficient on their very own, however when seen collectively, the impact is magical.
Iceland is thought for its distinctive landscapes and these hexagonal basalt columns are only one wonderful geographical function that may be seen right here. These unusual shapes seen at Stuðlagil Canyon are made as lava cools and contracts over an prolonged time frame, forming these almost uniformly formed columns. The columns virtually really feel like steps or stairs, as they’re additionally usually at various ranges and heights. One other well-liked location for viewing these basalt columns is Reynisfjara Seaside alongside the southern coast of Iceland, however I personally discovered the columns at Stuðlagil Canyon to be extra spectacular.
The turquoise river flowing by means of the canyon is named Jökulsá á Brú. The canyon’s options have been revealed when a hydroelectric plant was constructed close by in 2009, decreasing the water degree. These decreased water ranges actually add to the attract of Stuðlagil Canyon; when standing alongside the river financial institution, you might be surrounded by towering basalt columns on both aspect.
Stuðlagil Canyon is positioned within the jap area of Iceland and might be accessed simply from the Ring Street. We stopped at Stuðlagil Canyon as we traveled west from Seydisfjordur, and a go to to the canyon is well one in every of my favorite issues to do in Iceland. Normally, jap Iceland is a less-traveled space of the nation due to its distance from the capital Reykjavík. Nevertheless, a go to to Stuðlagil Canyon (and Iceland’s jap area) is effectively well worth the distance and energy, particularly in case you’re already circling the nation on the Ring Street!
The way to get to the Stuðlagil Canyon Viewpoints
Stuðlagil Canyon is positioned roughly 70km, or a one-hour drive, from the city of Egilsstaðir within the jap area of Iceland. It may be accessed simply from the Ring Street by taking Freeway 923.
One factor that we realized in planning our go to to Stuðlagil Canyon is the truth that it may be seen from each the east and west aspect, however these viewing areas usually are not positioned inside direct entry to one another. The 2 areas are on reverse sides of the canyon, with the west providing a viewing platform and the east involving a 3km out-and-back stroll with the chance to step contained in the canyon itself. We have been hoping for a extra immersive look into the canyon, so we selected to go to the east financial institution.
EAST BANK STUÐLAGIL CANYON HIKE
If you’re trying to get a more in-depth view of Stuðlagil Canyon, together with even strolling close to the canyon ground alongside the river, you’ll want to set your navigation for Parking Klaustrusel – Stuðlagil on Google Maps (positioned on the east aspect of the canyon). It’s a tough highway to get to, however our Completely happy Campervan dealt with it simply wonderful, so long as you are taking your time. On the car parking zone you’ll discover a small snack stand and a big parking space. From the car parking zone, you’ll observe a straightforward mountain climbing path for about 1.5 km. Parts of this path are primarily a gravel highway and it was scorching and dusty with no shade on the day we visited; convey water! You’ll move just a few waterfalls alongside the best way, and total it’s a reasonably pleasant stroll, though at occasions you’ll in all probability be considering you’re by no means going to succeed in the canyon view!
Additionally, you will need to be aware that there are two parking heaps on the east aspect of the canyon. The primary car parking zone might be discovered simply earlier than a small bridge (recognized on Google Maps as Stuðlagil East aspect parking) and includes an extended stroll to the trailhead. There’s one other car parking zone additional alongside the bumpy gravel highway previous the small bridge, which we advocate parking at (Parking Klaustrusel – Stuðlagil). Once we arrived, we discovered restricted house at this parking space closest to the trailhead however managed to snag a spot. Curiously, there may be additionally a small espresso stand discovered right here, and in contrast to many locations in Iceland, parking for Stuðlagil Canyon is free. This was shocking because the parking space is positioned on what is actually a farmer’s area, with restricted official infrastructure.
WEST BANK STUÐLAGIL CANYON VIEWS
If you’re quick on time or are in search of a viewpoint with simpler entry and never a lot mountain climbing, set your GPS for Stuðlagil Canyon viewpoint. This viewpoint on the west aspect of the canyon has a viewing platform and requires much less strolling (though there are 130+ stairs to navigte). From right here, you’ll view Stuðlagil Canyon from above.
When you have seen images of Stuðlagil Canyon on Instagram or social media, it’s probably that these pictures are taken from the jap financial institution of the canyon. Whereas extra effort is concerned in mountain climbing to Stuðlagil Canyon, that is the place you will get the jaw-dropping images you’ll have seen on-line.
Stuðlagil Canyon Viewpoints
How Are Basalt Columbs Fashioned?
Basalt columns present in Iceland, reminiscent of these discovered at Stuðlagil Canyon and different well-known websites like in Svartifoss (Black Falls) in Vatnajökull Nationwide Park, are fashioned by means of a course of often known as columnar jointing. This geological phenomenon happens when basaltic lava, which is wealthy in iron and magnesium, cools and solidifies.
Step-by-step rationalization of how basalt columns are fashioned:
Volcanic Exercise: Basalt columns are primarily related to volcanic exercise. In Iceland, the nation is located on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, a tectonic plate boundary the place the North American and Eurasian plates are pulling aside. This geologic setting results in frequent volcanic eruptions, and basaltic lava is a typical product of those eruptions.
Lava Circulate: Throughout a volcanic eruption, molten basaltic lava flows out onto the Earth’s floor. The lava is initially in a liquid state, however because it comes into contact with the cooler air and surfaces, it begins to chill and solidify.
Cooling and Contraction: Because the lava cools, it undergoes contraction. The outer layers cool extra quickly than the interior layers, creating stress throughout the rock.
Cracking and Column Formation: The stress generated throughout cooling causes the rock to crack in a sample of polygonal columns. The most typical shapes are hexagonal, however columns with 4, 5, or seven sides can even happen. The cracking and formation of columns are a results of the contraction of the lava.
Column Development: The columns proceed to develop vertically because the lava cools additional. The method of columnar jointing is commonly described as analogous to drying mud cracks, the place the fabric contracts and types a community of fractures.
Publicity: Over time, erosion and weathering processes take away the encompassing, much less resistant rock, exposing the spectacular basalt columns.
Ideas for visiting Stuðlagil Canyon
Should you’re like me, Stuðlagil Canyon is perhaps excessive in your checklist of issues to do whereas in Iceland. To be able to profit from your expertise, it’s useful to be ready! Learn on to seek out out some suggestions for visiting Stuðlagil Canyon.
How troublesome is the stroll to Stuðlagil Canyon?
For an up-close view of Stuðlagil Canyon and its huge basalt columns, plan to go to the east financial institution. From right here, you possibly can stroll to the bottom of the canyon alongside the river. Hold your eye out for Studlafoss Waterfall, not removed from the parking space.
The stroll preliminary stroll in the direction of the canyon location is simple; the trail is actually a mud highway with little or no elevation achieve. Nevertheless, the quick trek right down to the canyon ground might be slippery as you stroll alongside the uneven hexagonal ‘steps.’ Be certain that you put on acceptable non slip footwear in case you plan to enterprise right down to the canyon ground.
When is one of the best time to go to Stuðlagil Canyon?
As with a lot of Iceland’s most photogenic areas, Stuðlagil Canyon can get crowded. Should you’re trying to keep away from the crowds, plan to go to early within the morning or later within the night. We visited mid-morning in July, and the parking space was virtually utterly full. Nevertheless, July and August are peak vacationer season in Iceland, and it’s probably one can find Stuðlagil Canyon much less busy in case you go to throughout shoulder season. That being mentioned, June-September is when you’re going to get one of the best climate on the canyon.
How A lot Does it price to go to Stuðlagil Canyon?
There isn’t a price for visiting or parking at Stuðlagil Canyon. The situation is just not an official vacationer vacation spot, and has solely gained in reputation in recent times. Nevertheless, this can be very vital to respect the realm and protect it for future guests by staying on the path and following go away no hint rules.
How lengthy must you plan to remain at Stuðlagil Canyon?
We spent round 2 hours visiting Stuðlagil Canyon’s east financial institution. This included the time to stroll to the canyon, stroll alongside the basalt columns to the river financial institution, and loads of time for images. If you’re additionally hoping to go to the west financial institution when you are within the space, you’ll want to plan for added time right here.
What must you put on on a go to to Stuðlagil Canyon?
The climate in Iceland can range extensively throughout areas and all through the day! Guarantee that you’re dressed for the climate and put on layers that may be added or eliminated relying on temperature. Comfy, supportive footwear can be a good suggestion, notably if you’re hoping to climb right down to the bottom of the canyon. On the day we visited, carrying a T-shirt and pants was simply wonderful. Nevertheless, we additionally packed alongside a lightweight rain jacket in case the climate modified.
What must you convey with you on a go to to Stuðlagil Canyon?
The obvious tip? Convey your digicam! The views at Stuðlagil Canyon are completely gorgeous, and I may have spent hours right here taking within the views and snapping images from each angle. You may also need to convey snacks or water on your stroll to the canyon.
Is Stuðlagil Canyon kid-Pleasant?
If you’re touring with kids, I believe Stuðlagil Canyon can be an acceptable cease. Nevertheless, if you’re visiting the jap financial institution, you’ll want to be sure that your kids are snug with strolling distance. Relying on the age of your kids, you may additionally need to skip strolling right down to the bottom of the canyon and as a substitute view Stuðlagil Canyon from above. We didn’t see any babies when visiting right here, however households with older kids have been having fun with the view from the jap financial institution.
Issues to see within the Stuðlagil Canyon space
We visited Stuðlagil Canyon on a complete Iceland campervan journey round Iceland’s Ring Street. Probably the most well-liked choices for making your manner across the Ring Street is to hire a camper van for final flexibility and journey. Regardless of the way you make your manner across the nation, there are such a lot of must-see stops. Under are just a few spots that you possibly can embrace on a go to to jap Iceland.
Seydisfjordur
The drive to the city of Seydisfjordur alone is well worth the time. As you drive alongside the highway that descends towards the city, you may be surrounded by steep cliffs and waterfalls. Whereas we didn’t spend a lot time within the city itself, we spent the night time on the native campground and couldn’t go away with out taking a photograph on the charming and insta well-known Seydisfjordur church with its rainbow walkway.
Vök Baths
Set in an idyllic location in jap Iceland, Vök Baths is arguably the most effective scorching springs in Iceland. Due to its geothermal exercise, scorching springs might be discovered all through the nation. Nevertheless, the jap area is extra of a chilly spot with regard to this geothermal exercise, making Vök Baths one of many few scorching springs within the space. Seeking to keep away from the crowds and get essentially the most out of the enjoyable ambiance? Plan to go to very first thing within the morning or over the past two hours earlier than closing.
Dettifoss
Dettifoss is reportedly Europe’s second strongest waterfall and one of the well-liked waterfalls in Iceland. It’s positioned in northern Iceland alongside the Diamond Circle route, one of many nation’s many scenic detours that branches off from the principle Ring Street. Standing alongside the sting of the waterfall is really awe-inspiring as you watch the immense quantity of water come crashing into the canyon under. A tip for visiting? Convey a water-proof jacket – we bought soaked from the spray coming off the falls!
Myvatn Nature Baths
On the day we visited Stuðlagil Canyon, we traveled between Seydisfjordur and Lake Mývatn. Spending the night enjoyable at Mývatn Nature Baths was the right technique to finish a busy day of touring. Right here you may be surrounded by the distinctive panorama of Iceland’s northern area, a scorching spot for geothermal exercise. Plus, the admission worth for visiting Mývatn Nature Baths is cheaper than the favored Sky Lagoon or Blue Lagoon close to Reykjavik.
Is Stuðlagil Canyon Value Visiting?
In our opinion, a go to to Stuðlagil Canyon is completely well worth the effort and time on any journey round Iceland, notably if you’re planning on visiting the jap area. Relying in your mobility and the time that you’ve got accessible, there are two completely different viewing choices for guests hoping to cease on the distinctive canyon. With its location simply off the Ring Street, Stuðlagil Canyon is a comparatively fast cease that gives a view in contrast to another. I might not hesitate to advocate including Stuðlagil Canyon to your Iceland itinerary!
All that being mentioned if you’re quick on time, it might not be price the additional 3 hours you want whole to drive to the parking space and hike, notably if the climate is combined (which it was for us!). Whereas anybody of affordable health and skill can full this hike, in case you have doubts, it might be price it to proceed driving to Myvatn and spend your time on the spectacular Hverir geothermal space as a substitute.
The World Pursuit’s Go to to Stuðlagil Canyon
This text was written in collaboration with Rachel, a visitor writer. We each visited Stuðlagil Canyon this previous summer time and had a tremendous time. As you possibly can inform by the images, we didn’t get essentially the most spectacular climate regardless of visiting on the finish of June.
We personally stayed in a single day at a campsite in Egilsstaðir with our Completely happy Camper. After we wakened, we made our technique to Vok Baths earlier than opening to be a number of the first to benefit from the ambiance. We spent round 3 hours having fun with Vok Baths earlier than persevering with onto the Canyon. If I have been to do that day over I might have by some means managed to go to Stuðlagil Canyon first after which end the day enjoyable within the baths. Nevertheless while you’re highway tripping round Iceland and dwelling out of a van it doesn’t all the time work like that.
Once we reached Stuðlagil Canyon, it was beginning to rain, however after already detouring 40 minutes to the parking space, we weren’t going to desert our mountain climbing plans. We wearing weather-resistant gear, though I remorse not placing rain pants on our Iceland packing checklist. If there’s one piece of recommendation I may give, it’s to convey rain pants to Iceland, even in the summertime! You by no means know what you’re going to get! By the point we reached the point of view we have been completely soaked, and never carrying correct footwear to grip the basalt columns and hike to the water’s edge.
Whereas I hung again afraid of slipping, Cameron trekked down the sting to get contained in the canyon. On a greater day, it might have been merely wonderful! After spending about half-hour taking images we retreated again to the automotive completely soaked. Convey meals with you as there is just one snack stand within the space promoting costly scorching canines.
My three takeaways after visiting – park on the closest car parking zone in case you have a excessive clearance automobile, put on non slip sneakers, and watch the climate rigorously! Probably the most dependable climate might be discovered on Vedur.
I hope this information helps you intend a go to to the gorgeous Studlagil Canyon! For extra data on touring round Iceland, see extra of our guides under.
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