Overview
About Studlagil Canyon
A canyon revealed by river diversion
Jökla runs from the Vatnajökull region toward the coastal lowlands of Héraðssandar. Construction of the Kárahnjúkar hydropower scheme diverted much of its former glacial flow through the Hálslón reservoir system. The reduced water level exposed extensive columnar walls that had previously been obscured by a larger, sediment-laden river. The engineering project changed the canyon's visibility rather than creating its basalt formations.
Why the water changes colour
Photographs often show blue-green water between the dark columns, but this appearance is not constant. Snowmelt and overflow from the reservoir can introduce more suspended sediment, turning the river grey or brown. Both its colour and its force reflect conditions across a much larger river catchment.
A powerful river environment
Calm-looking water can conceal a strong current, and the rocks beside it can be slippery. Water levels and the extent of exposed riverbanks change, making the canyon an active river environment.
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