Hidden Gems · Iceland
Stuðlagil Canyon
Stuðlagil is a canyon of basalt columns on the Jökulsá á Dal in East Iceland. Nobody saw it for most of the last century: the river ran high and covered the rock until a hydroelectric dam upstream lowered the water in 2009. There are two access points, on opposite banks, and they give completely different visits.
I did both sides, which is the only way to answer the question properly. The west side is quick: a short walk from the car park to a platform, and you look down into the canyon from above. The east side is the longer route and takes you down to the water, where the columns are above you rather than below — that is the view most photographs are taken from, and it costs you a proper walk. Which one to choose depends entirely on how much time you have, and I have written that out in detail in my separate Stuðlagil post.
My rating
Scale 1–5. On Cost, 1 means free and 5 means pricey. On Crowd level, 1 means near-solitude and 5 means tour-bus central.
Four out of five. Stacked hexagonal columns on both walls with turquoise water running between them — the shape of the place is unusual even by Icelandic standards.
Visitors have two main access points. On the west side, there is a well-maintained viewing platform near a campsite, providing safe and easy access without the need to descend into the canyon. The east side (see map below) offers a more adventurous experience, where hikers can descend to the river using a short scramble aided by chains. The gravel road leading to the east side parking is somewhat bumpy but passable without a four-wheel drive, though cautious driving is recommended. Sturdy footwear is advised for navigating the rocky terrain.
Parking on both sides costs 1,000 ISK. You need the Parka app.
Studlagil Canyon has gained popularity in recent years, especially during summer. Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to visit for a quieter atmosphere.
Before you go
Planning your own Ring Road trip?
Iceland Ring Road Campervan Guide
My full 14-day route — roughly 2,500 km, every campsite I used, what I actually spent, and the stops worth the detour. The plan I drove, in one PDF.
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How I booked my campervan
I compared three rentals before I chose mine. These are the ones worth checking — Lava gives 5% off with code CREATOR.