Stakkholtsgjá (also called Stakkholts) is a massive and fabulously beautiful canyon located in the Thorsmork (Þórsmörk) valley in the Icelandic Highlands. It is about 100 meters deep and two kilometers long.
Already at the entrance it is surrounded by hundred-meter high, massive palagonite cliffs. Inside flows a narrow stream that runs on stony ground. As you climb hundreds of meters more, the canyon narrows, and in the side crevices it sometimes resembles a narrow cave open to the top.
Why visit Stakkholtsgjá Canyon
Unlike many other popular canyons in Iceland, Stakkholtsgjá is really huge and massive. You can also walk along its bottom as far as you feel like and time allows without any trouble.
The canyon hike is one of the most scenic short hiking trails in Iceland. Although the trail is relatively easy, it requires a fair amount of caution.The hike through Stakkholtsgjá and back takes about an hour and a half.
Many people who visit the canyon experience a remarkable tranquility. Thus, it is a great place conducive to tranquility and recuperation. The picturesque outdoors of the canyon looks as if elves and trolls live there. So the place is also ideal for hiking with children, especially energetic ones with rich imaginations.
Stakkholtsgjá – tips and practical information
- Stakkholtsgja Canyon is located inside the Thorsmork Valley, on the F249 road.
- Access to Stakkholtsgjá is a bit difficult, as it requires crossing several (usually shallow) fords, and therefore requires driving a four-wheel-drive vehicle.
- There is a small, clearly marked parking area at the entrance to the canyon.
- It is advisable to bring river-crossing shoes for the trip – in the upper part of the canyon we have to cross a shallow but wide stream.
- Because the F249 road is closed from autumn to spring, the Stakkholtsgjá canyon is also only accessible in summer.
- The F249 road is excluded from insurance coverage by most Icelandic companies. You travel here entirely at your own risk.
How to get to Stakkholtsgja
The entrance to Stakkholtsgja Canyon and parking for cars is located on the F249 road, about 25 kilometers northeast of where the still paved road 249 diverges from the national highway – Road No. 1, the area around the Seljalandsfoss waterfall.
Photos from Stakkholtsgja Canyon
