Studlagil Canyon Travel Guide
Tucked away in the remote Eastern region of Iceland, explorers will find a hidden gem. Studlagil Canyon has captured the hearts of travelers and photographers alike, famous for its towering basalt columns and the striking contrast of turquoise waters against the grey stone. Cut through by the Jökulsá á Dal river, this natural wonder makes for one of Iceland’s most dramatic landscapes. Whether you’re looking to capture jaw-dropping photos, take on a scenic hike, or just experience some of Iceland’s most powerful raw nature, Studlagil Canyon is worth the visit.
In this guide, we’ll share everything you need to know about visiting Studlagil Canyon, from how to get there to the best viewpoints, hiking tips, and practical advice to make it an experience you’ll never forget.
What is Studlagil Canyon?
Studlagil basalt canyon is a stunning and unique geological wonder, carved over millennia by the powerful Jökulsá á Dal river in East Iceland. The canyon is famous for its imposing basalt columns, which were formed when lava cooled slowly over time, contracting and creating the eye-catching hexagonal shapes that line the river as it cuts through the canyon's towering walls.
Though it only gained mainstream popularity in recent years, the canyon has quickly drawn visitors who are eager to explore the area’s trails and capture the stunning scenes behind their lens. The canyon stretches for several kilometres, offering adventurers the chance to explore dramatic cliff lines, crystal-clear waters, and peaceful surroundings. As a bonus, because it’s a newer attraction, you can expect smaller crowds when you visit.
Where is Studlagil Canyon, and how do you get there?
Getting to Studlagil Canyon is easier than you might expect, but planning ahead is always helpful, and our rental cars are the perfect option to get you there. The canyon is located in East Iceland near the town of Egilsstaðir. This town serves as the main hub for tourists exploring the area. From Egilsstaðir, it’s a 45-minute drive to the canyon, making it an ideal day trip.
Directions:
- From Egilsstaðir, begin by heading east on Route 93, towards the town of Seyðisfjörður.
- After roughly 15km, you will turn onto the local road, which leads to the Studlagil Canyon parking area.
- Park in the designated lot and follow marked trails to reach the best viewpoints.
We’ve put together a helpful map, guiding you from Reykjavík (where most visitors to Iceland begin their trip) to Egilsstaðir, and on to Studlagil Canyon. If you do intend to begin from Reykjavík, you will follow the same directions as above, but you will start on Route 1 (the Ring Road) heading east towards Egilsstaðir. This part of the drive will take between 8 and 9 hours, so many visitors opt to split the journey with stops at other attractions. Why not plan a road trip along the way?
We’ve put together a helpful map that will guide you in planning your route to Studlagil Canyon.
When to Visit Studlagil Canyon
Timing your visit to Studlagil Canyon right can hugely impact how much you enjoy this Icelandic wonder. The canyon is accessible throughout the year, but the best time to visit is definitely during the summer months (between June and late August). During this time, you will find that the weather is milder, the days are longer - giving you more daylight hours to explore, and the trails are easier to navigate.
For photographers who want to capture some unforgettable images, visiting in the early morning or late afternoon is ideal. The light at this time of day is unbeatable and creates softer shadows and richer tones that can be captured in the basalt formations. This all works together to highlight incredible textures from the canyon walls and movement in the water. Visiting outside peak hours also helps you to avoid crowds, giving you an all-around more peaceful experience.
If you do want to visit in the winter, it is an option, but you’ll have a different experience. Visiting between November and March will highlight a totally different atmosphere. The canyon might be covered in ice or snow, creating an ethereal landscape. That being said, access can be more difficult at this time of year due to icy trails and fewer hours of daylight. You’ll definitely want to plan carefully if winter is when you intend to visit.
Hiking & Viewpoints at Studlagil Canyon
Hitting the trails and exploring Studlagil Canyon on foot is, by far, the best way to experience the setting. There are a few different trails that lead through the canyon, offering a variety of difficulty levels and access to the best viewpoints.
- Upper Viewpoint Trail: This is the easiest option and is suitable for most visitors. A short and mostly flat walk from the parking area leads to a viewpoint that overlooks the canyon, giving you stunning panoramic views of the basalt columns and bright river below.
- Riverside Trail: If you want a more immersive hiking experience, you’ll want to start on the east side of the canyon and park on this side. The walk to the best lookout areas, which eventually drops you down to the water level and offers amazing views of the columns, begins here. The hike is about 6.5km total and is quite strenuous in parts. For this reason, we only recommend that experienced hikers opt for this route.
Tips for Safe Hiking
- Make sure to wear sturdy footwear, as the trails can be uneven and slippery.
- Pack water, snacks, sunblock, and a camera.
- Respect nature. Stay on designated paths, avoid climbing the basalt columns, and obey all signs and postings.
Whether you’re a casual visitor or an avid hiker, walking the trails at Studlagil Canyon is an unforgettable way to experience Iceland’s raw beauty.
Where to Stay Near Studlagil Canyon
Staying near the canyon will help you make the most of your explorations in the area. The nearest town is Egilsstaðir, which makes it a convenient and popular option for those visiting Studlagil Canyon. There’s a variety of options for accommodation and other amenities in the town.
- Hotels & Guesthouses: Egilsstaðir boasts a number of hotels and guesthouses, ranging from family-run stays to more modern hotels with full amenities. These are ideal if you want comfort and convenience during your stay.
- Farm Stays & Cabins: For a more authentic Icelandic experience, perhaps consider a countryside cabin or farm stay. These options provide unbeatable views, a sense of peace, and a taste of the local culture.
- Camping: During the summer months, there are a number of camping sites near Egilsstaðir. This option is ideal for budget travelers or those who want to experience Iceland’s raw wilderness. If camping is your preference, there is also a campground just 200m from Stuðlagil Canyon. The campsite is open from May to October and is closed during the winter. There are a few amenities on site as well, like restrooms, showers, electric hookups, and a food trailer which offers staples and light refreshments from 9 am-6 pm. There are often craft markets held at the campsite too, ideal for finding a special souvenir from your travels.
Studlagil Canyon really is one of Iceland’s most beautiful wonders. Don’t miss the chance to add this hidden gem to your Iceland itinerary. It’s a destination that truly captures the country’s beauty in its purest form. Start planning your Icelandic adventure with Iceland Car Rental!