Valley Length
~80 km
One of Iceland's longest inhabited valleys
Jokuldalur (Jökuldalur): Glacial Valley & Stuðlagil Canyon
Jökuldalur — Glacial Valley
Updated February 10, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Iceland's longest inhabited valley, stretching about 80 km into the eastern interior. Home to Stuðlagil Canyon with its famous basalt columns and the setting of Hrafnkels saga.
Region
East Iceland
Best time: June – September
The glacial river Jökulsá á Dal flows through Jökuldalur, carrying enormous amounts of silt from the Vatnajökull ice cap. The valley is renowned for Stuðlagil Canyon, where spectacular basalt columns line the riverbed, creating one of Iceland's most photographed natural wonders. This is also the setting of Hrafnkels saga, one of Iceland's best-known medieval sagas.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-10
River levels in Jökuldalur vary with glacial melt. Check conditions before visiting Stuðlagil Canyon, as high water can obscure the basalt columns.
Sources to check
Key Attraction
Stuðlagil Canyon
Famous basalt column canyon
Best Season
Jun–Sep
Warmest weather and lowest river levels
Region
East Iceland
Between Egilsstaðir and Mývatn
Canyon
Stuðlagil
Spectacular basalt column canyon — Iceland's most photogenic geological formation
Farming
Agricultural
Active farming community along Iceland's longest inhabited valley floor
Key Highlights
Stuðlagil Canyon
Spectacular basalt columns lining the riverbed — Iceland's most photogenic canyon
Jökulsá á Dal River
Powerful glacial river carrying silt from Vatnajökull through the valley
Hrafnkels Saga Sites
Visit the farm Aðalból and other locations from this famous medieval saga
Remote Eastern Interior
80 km of peaceful farmland stretching into Iceland's rugged interior
How to Get There
- Route 923 leads to Stuðlagil Canyon from Route 1 near Egilsstaðir — the main attraction
- Egilsstaðir is about 40 km (45 minutes) north of the canyon access road
- Two access points for Stuðlagil: the east bank (easier walk) and west bank (requires fording)
- The east bank approach via Klaustursel farm has a shorter, easier hiking trail
- Domestic flights from Reykjavik to Egilsstaðir connect to the valley area
Best Time to Visit
- July-August: Best for Stuðlagil Canyon — river at lowest flow reveals basalt columns
- June: Canyon may still have high water — the columns are less visible but waterfalls impressive
- September: Autumn colors frame the canyon, fewer visitors, still accessible
- October-May: Canyon accessible but cold, short daylight, roads may be icy
- Late July: Optimal time for canyon photography — lowest water, longest light
Planning help
Jokuldalur FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.