Plizio Visual Lab

Ásbyrgi

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

valley

Weather…

Ásbyrgi is a massive, horseshoe-shaped canyon in northeast Iceland, forming a prominent part of the Vatnajökull National Park. The canyon measures approximately 3.5 kilometers in length and over 1.1 kilometers in width, enclosed by sheer basalt cliffs that reach heights of up to 100 meters. In the center of the canyon stands a distinctive rock formation called Eyjan ('the Island'), which provides hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding area. According to Norse mythology, Ásbyrgi was formed when Sleipnir, Odin's eight-legged horse, stepped down and left a hoofprint on the earth. Geologists, however, attribute its formation to catastrophic glacial floods from the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river, which occurred roughly 3,000 and 8,000 to 10,000 years ago. Today, the canyon floor is uniquely carpeted with a dense forest of birch and willow, thriving in the sheltered environment. At the innermost end of the canyon lies Botnstjörn, a tranquil pond that serves as a sanctuary for various waterfowl and features a serene atmosphere amidst the monumental natural walls.

Location: Iceland
Nearby: Mývatn Nature Baths (57 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-4	-4	-3	-2	2	7	9	8	5	1	-2	-4
Rain mm	105	85	99	83	86	69	93	100	127	131	127	123

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

Reaching this massive horseshoe-shaped canyon typically involves driving along the northern coastal routes of the country. Travelers usually start their journey from nearby northern towns, heading towards the main national park entrances.

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Best season

The summer months are generally the best time to explore the canyon, as the trails are clear of snow and the access roads are fully open. During this period, the spirited green landscape provides a stark contrast to the massive cliffs.

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Terrain & paths

The valley floor is mostly flat, offering easy walking paths that navigate through the scenic landscape and woodland. However, trails that lead up to the viewing points on the cliffs require navigating steep and rugged terrain.

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What to bring

Reliable hiking shoes with good grip are essential, especially if you plan to ascend the trails overlooking the horseshoe bend. Layers of warm, waterproof clothing are necessary to combat the unpredictable northern Icelandic climate.

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Parking

Parking facilities are typically located at the main visitor center or at designated spots at the far end of the canyon. These areas provide convenient access to the trailheads that lead directly into the heart of the valley.

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Safety

Visitors should remain cautious around the towering cliff edges and adhere strictly to marked paths to avoid accidents. The massive rock walls can occasionally shed loose stones, so staying clear of the immediate base is advised.

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Time needed

A standard visit to walk the valley floor and take in the sheer scale of Odin's mythical hoofprint takes about two to three hours. Those looking to hike up to the panoramic viewpoints should allocate at least a half-day for the trip.

Geography

Coordinates

66.01750, -16.03050

Facts

The canyon is 3.5 km long and reaches a maximum width of 1.1 km.
The sheer basalt walls rise to a height of up to 100 meters.
In Norse mythology, it is said to be the hoofprint of Odin's horse Sleipnir.
Geologically, it was formed by massive floods between 3,000 and 10,000 years ago.
The central rock formation, Eyjan, is approximately 250 meters wide.
The sheltered canyon floor is home to a lush and rare forest of birch trees.