East Iceland Canyons

7 canyons in East Iceland, led by Stuðlagil. All mapped with drive times, directions, and live road conditions.

7 canyons in East Iceland

Distances on the cards are straight-line from Reykjavík.

Stuðlagil

335 km from Reykjavík

Basalt column canyon with brilliant blue water. Iceland's newest headline canyon. The canyon was hidden under a reservoir until water levels dropped in 2009. Now the columnar basalt and blue river draw crowds. Two access points - the west side (easier, parking fee) and east side (rougher road, free). The viewpoint trail is moderate. Gets very busy in summer. Early morning visits are better for photos and solitude.

Hafrahvammagljúfur

309 km from Reykjavík

Studlagil Canyon - famous for blue water and basalt columns. Instagram-famous since 2017. East Iceland, hike required.

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Spanarhraun

372 km from Reykjavík

Icelandic canyon carved by water and volcanic forces. Some canyons require hiking or 4x4 access - check requirements.

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Merargil

376 km from Reykjavík

Icelandic canyon carved by water and volcanic forces. Stay on marked trails - canyon edges can be unstable.

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Partsgil

344 km from Reykjavík

Icelandic canyon carved by water and volcanic forces. Stay on marked trails - canyon edges can be unstable.

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Krossgil

348 km from Reykjavík

Icelandic canyon carved by water and volcanic forces. Stay on marked trails - canyon edges can be unstable.

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Faxagil

315 km from Reykjavík

Icelandic canyon carved by water and volcanic forces. Some canyons require hiking or 4x4 access - check requirements.