South IcelandPhotogenic canyon
Fjaðrárgljúfur
100m deep, 2 km long canyon with a winding river below. Walking path along the rim with viewing platforms. Can be closed for vegetation recovery; check before visiting.
Canyons
Canyons of Iceland: Fjaðrárgljúfur, Stuðlagil & More
Deep gorges carved by glacial rivers through volcanic rock, from moss-covered walls to columnar basalt.
Tip
Stay on marked paths
Canyon edges can be slippery and unstable, so respect barriers and closures.
Quick Answer
Iceland's canyons were carved over thousands of years by glacial meltwater rivers cutting through soft volcanic rock: basalt, palagonite, and hyaloclastite. The country's largest, Jökulsárgljúfur, stretches 25 km through Vatnajökull National Park and houses three major waterfalls. The most photographed, Fjaðrárgljúfur, is 100 m deep and 2 km long. For basalt column formations, Stuðlagil in East Iceland became widely known after the Kárahnjúkar dam (2009) reduced water levels and revealed its columnar walls. Highland canyons like Sigöldugljúfur require F-road access (typically mid-June to September) and a 4WD vehicle, and see far fewer visitors.
Sources and page update
Updated: 2026-09-10
This guide is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. Canyon edges are often unfenced and can be dangerously slippery; stay on marked trails and check conditions before visiting.
For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy.
Official sources to check
North IcelandLargest canyon
Jökulsárgljúfur
Iceland's largest canyon at 25 km long and up to 100m deep. Part of Vatnajökull National Park. Home to Dettifoss, Selfoss, and Hafragilsfoss waterfalls.
HighlandsValley of Tears
Sigöldugljúfur
The 'Valley of Tears': dozens of small waterfalls cascade down the canyon walls at once. Check the approach road and current conditions; this is a highland excursion.
East IcelandBasalt column canyon
Stuðlagil
Canyon lined with tall hexagonal basalt columns. A turquoise glacial river runs through it. The west bank has an elevated viewing platform; the east-bank walk is a different approach. Do not cross the river in the canyon.
South IcelandNarrow gorge
Stakkholtsgjá
Narrow gorge in Þórsmörk accessible by wading through a shallow stream. Towering moss-covered walls. Featured in film and TV. Requires river crossing to reach Þórsmörk.
North IcelandWaterfall canyon
Kolugljúfur
Canyon with multiple waterfalls along the Víðidalsá river. Viewing platforms on the bridge above. Named after the giantess Kola from Icelandic folklore.
South IcelandHidden canyon
Múlagljúfur
Relatively unknown moss-covered canyon with waterfalls. Short but steep hike to reach. Allow for the climb and exposed terrain rather than treating it as a roadside viewpoint.
North IcelandEcho rocks
Hljóðaklettar
Rock formations in Jökulsárgljúfur with twisted basalt columns and echo chambers. Hiking trails wind through the formations. Part of Vatnajökull National Park.
Choose the viewpoint before choosing the walk
At Stuðlagil, the bank determines your route: the Grund platform and the Klaustursel approach are not interchangeable. At Hljóðaklettar, compare the signed short walk and longer circuits instead of heading directly across the formations.
At Jökulsárgljúfur, check the park’s May 2026 change to west-side Dettifoss access: Fosshvamm is permanently closed, while views remain available from permitted routes. Older walking maps can lead into the affected area. See the park’s current notices.
Planning help
Iceland canyons FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.
Is Fjaðrárgljúfur open to visitors?
Fjaðrárgljúfur is sometimes closed to protect its fragile vegetation, especially after periods of heavy traffic or wet weather. Check the Environment Agency of Iceland website or local signs before visiting. When open, a walking path runs along the canyon rim with several viewing platforms.
How do I reach Stuðlagil Canyon?
Choose the bank before driving. The west-bank viewing platform is reached from Grund and does not give access to the canyon floor. The east-bank walk approaches from the Klaustursel bridge area. Do not attempt to cross the river in the canyon. Use the detailed guide for parking and walking distances.
When is the best time to visit Iceland's canyons?
Summer (June–August) has the best access and longest daylight. Highland canyons like Sigöldugljúfur are only reachable when F-roads open (typically mid-June to September). Spring snowmelt can raise river levels, so some canyon floors become inaccessible while waterfalls carry more water.
Are canyon hikes dangerous in Iceland?
Canyon edges can be slippery and unstable, so stay on marked paths and behind barriers. Flash flooding is possible in narrow canyons during heavy rain. Some canyons require river crossings that can be dangerous in high water. Check weather forecasts and water levels before hiking.
How do I get to Stakkholtsgjá in Þórsmörk?
Þórsmörk requires crossing several unbridged rivers, so a 4x4 or super jeep is needed (or take the scheduled highland bus). From the Þórsmörk area, Stakkholtsgjá is a moderate hike. You'll wade through a shallow stream inside the gorge, so waterproof boots are essential.
Country reference: Iceland statistics.