How was Ásbyrgi formed?

Geologists believe Ásbyrgi was carved by catastrophic glacial floods (jökulhlaups) from the Vatnajökull ice cap thousands of years ago. Norse legend says it was formed by the hoofprint of Odin's eight-legged horse Sleipnir.

Is Ásbyrgi part of a national park?

Yes, Ásbyrgi is part of Vatnajökull National Park (formerly Jökulsárgljúfur National Park), one of Europe's largest national parks.

Can I camp at Ásbyrgi?

Yes, there is a well-equipped campsite at Ásbyrgi with toilets, showers, and cooking facilities. It is a popular base for exploring the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon area.

What hiking trails are available?

Several trails explore the canyon floor and rim. You can walk to Botnstjörn pond at the canyon's end, hike along the cliff tops, or take shorter loops through the birch forest. The area also connects to longer trails toward Dettifoss.

When is the best time to visit Ásbyrgi?

Summer (June–August) is best, with the campsite open and all trails accessible. The road to Ásbyrgi (Route 861/862) may be closed in winter due to snow. Always check road conditions before driving.

Asbyrgi (Ásbyrgi) Canyon & Forest Iceland: Horseshoe Canyon in Vatnajökull National Park

A spectacular horseshoe-shaped canyon and forest in Vatnajökull National Park, steeped in Norse mythology and filled with birch woodland, a tranquil pond, and outstanding hiking.

Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team

Region

North Iceland

Part of Vatnajökull National Park. Check road access in winter.

Ásbyrgi is one of Iceland's most dramatic natural wonders—a horseshoe-shaped canyon roughly 3.5 km long and 1 km wide, sheltered by towering cliffs up to 100 meters high. Within these protective walls, a lush birch and willow forest thrives, creating an unexpected green oasis in Iceland's otherwise stark northern landscape. According to Norse mythology, the canyon was formed when Odin's eight-legged horse Sleipnir placed its hoof on the earth. The serene Botnstjörn pond lies at the canyon's closed end, surrounded by cliffs and woodland.

Safety + sourcing

Last updated: 2026-02-01

This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. Roads to Ásbyrgi may be closed in winter. Always check road.is and park websites before traveling.

Sources to check

Best for

Canyon + Norse legend

Geological wonder meets mythology in a lush forest setting.

Access

Moderate

Paved/gravel roads; check seasonal closures.

Pro tip

Camp here

The campsite makes a great base for exploring Jökulsárgljúfur and Dettifoss.

What to Expect at Ásbyrgi

Towering 100m canyon walls enclosing a sheltered birch forest
Botnstjörn pond at the canyon's closed end
Multiple hiking trails along the canyon floor and rim
Eyjan—a distinctive rock island splitting the canyon into two sections
Rich birdlife including fulmars nesting on the canyon cliffs
Well-maintained campsite with facilities making it an ideal base for the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon area

Nearby Attractions

Dettifoss (Europe's most powerful waterfall)
Hljóðaklettar (echo rock formations)
Húsavík (whale watching capital of Iceland)
Jökulsárgljúfur canyon trail running south to Dettifoss
Vesturdalur valley with unique columnar basalt formations

How to Get There

Route 861 leads north from Route 1 near Ásbyrgi, in the Jökulsárgljúfur area of Northeast Iceland
About 65 km east of Húsavík and 175 km from Akureyri via Route 1 and Route 85
The road is mostly paved but the final section is gravel — accessible by standard car in summer
The campsite and visitor center are well-signposted at the end of the road
Combine with Dettifoss waterfall (40 km south) and Lake Mývatn (100 km west) for a full itinerary

Best Time to Visit

June-August: Campsite open, all trails accessible, birch woodland lush and green, 8-15°C
July: Peak summer — best weather, 24-hour daylight for exploring the canyon
September: Autumn colors in the birch forest, fewer visitors, atmospheric canyon walks
October-May: Road may be closed or difficult — check road.is before driving
Late June: Nesting birds active in the canyon, wildflowers blooming on the forest floor

Planning help

Ásbyrgi FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

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