The trail to Stakkholtsgjá canyon starts quietly. A flat stretch of soft gravel leads you toward cliffs dressed in thick moss, where birds call out and your footsteps echo off the canyon walls. It feels still, but not empty, like the place is watching you back.
How to get to Stakkholtsgja Canyon
You're all warmed up for the hike, but first, let's actually get there.
To reach Stakkholtsgjá Canyon by rental car, drive along Route 1 (Ring Road) heading east or west depending on your starting point, and then take F-road F249 from the town of Hvolsvöllur toward Þórsmörk (Thórsmörk).
This gravel road leads deep into the highlands and includes several river crossings, so a 4x4 vehicle is mandatory. After about 24 kilometers on F249, you’ll find a small parking area near the trailhead to the canyon. There is a parking fee of 750 ISK, which is paid via the Parka app.
From there, it’s a scenic 2-kilometer (1.2-mile) hike to reach the heart of the canyon. Always check road and river conditions before setting out, as F-roads are only open in summer and can be treacherous after heavy rain.
What is the Stakkholtsgjá Canyon hike like?
The full hike is about 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) out and back. Most people do it in around 90 minutes, but you’ll probably slow down without even trying. There’s a lot to take in, and it gets better the deeper you go.
You won’t be climbing any mountains here. The trail is gentle, but there’s enough going on to keep you on your toes. Expect to cross a few shallow streams and move between rocks as the canyon gradually narrows around you.
Some visitors say it feels like something out of a fantasy series. That’s not a stretch. Part of Game of Thrones was actually shot in this canyon. With steep walls covered in moss and light shifting as you walk, it doesn’t feel staged at all. Just wild and a little surreal.
Trail Conditions and Difficulty
The path at Stakkholtsgjá isn’t steep, but it’s not a flat city sidewalk either. You’ll be walking on a mix of gravel, sand, and riverbed. Some parts are soft underfoot. Others are scattered with rocks and boulders, especially near the streams.
In good weather, most people find it manageable. If it’s been raining or snow has recently melted, the water crossings get trickier. The rocks can turn slick fast. That’s usually when people start slipping.
This is one of those family-friendly hikes in Iceland, so it’s doable for most ages. Just don’t bring a stroller, and don’t expect a smooth ride if you’ve got weak knees or balance issues.
Crossing Streams, Climbing Rocks, and What to Wear
Depending on the season, you’ll cross anywhere from two to four shallow streams on the Stakkholtsgjá hike. Some are narrow enough to hop over. Others ask a bit more from your balance and coordination. You can try to stay dry, but let’s be honest, most people end up stepping in something. And once one foot’s wet, the other usually follows.
The rocks around the crossings aren’t dangerous, but they are slick. Expect a few stumbles, maybe a quick sit-down in the cold water if you’re not careful. Some kids treat it like a game, and adults treat it like a survival challenge. Both usually end up laughing.
Things to see at Stakkholtsgjá Canyon
Step into the world of Stakkholtsgjá Canyon, one of Iceland’s most cinematic landscapes, where youll find plenty to see.
The Secret Waterfall at the End of the Trail
The deeper you go, the narrower Stakkholtsgjá canyon gets. Walls close in, voices bounce back at you, and the sound of water starts to rise above the crunch of your boots. The air cools, the light fades, and the rocks underfoot feel damp and slick. You’re almost there.
Then, without much warning, you reach it. A tall, narrow waterfall tucked inside a shadowy chamber, crashing down from somewhere high above. Mist hangs in the air. Spray hits your face. You’ve stepped into a space that doesn’t feel fully real but more like a hidden world the canyon decided to reveal, just for a moment.
It’s not Iceland’s biggest waterfall, but size doesn’t matter here. What gets people is the setting. Enclosed. Echoing. Quiet, apart from the roar of water. A lot of hikers call it surreal. Some just stand there, staring.
If you're thinking of taking a few photos, wipe your lens first. Then hold still. The light moves differently in there, and if you’re lucky, a sunbeam might break through the top.
Try to hit this spot early or late in the day. Fewer people, softer light, better everything. It’s one of those moments that sticks, and no one wants to share it with a noisy crowd.
Game of Thrones filming locations
This dramatic canyon in South Iceland was featured in Season 7 as the setting where Jon Snow and his team ventured beyond the Wall to capture a wight.
With its towering moss-covered cliffs and winding gorge, it’s easy to see why this spot was chosen as a filming location; it looks like something straight out of Westeros. A short hike into the canyon immerses you in the raw, rugged beauty that made Iceland a star of the show.
Best time to visit Stakkholtsgjá Canyon in Iceland
| Season | Recommended? | Why | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (Apr–May) | ❌ | F-road F249 to the canyon is usually still closed due to snow and unsafe river crossings. | Check road.is for real-time road conditions if traveling late May. |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | ✅ | Best time to visit. Roads are open, river crossings manageable, and weather is mild. | Go early in the day to avoid crowds. Wear waterproof shoes for stream crossings. |
| Autumn (Sep–Oct) | ⚠️ | F249 may still be open in early September, but closures can happen quickly with rain or snow. | Check daily road status and go with a 4x4. Watch out for slippery trails. |
| Winter (Nov–Mar) | ❌ | Access is not possible due to snow-covered highland roads and dangerous river conditions. | Consider other accessible winter hikes. |
What to Pack for Stakkholtsgjá Canyon Hike
Wear layers that can take a splash. Waterproof jackets are smart, especially if rain’s in the forecast or the canyon mist starts drifting in near the waterfall. Quick-dry pants beat jeans every time. Gloves help if it’s cold, and they’re good for gripping rocks if you need to steady yourself.
This isn’t the hike to wear sneakers or anything cotton. The light also changes as the canyon narrows, so expect shifting shadows and damp air the deeper you go. Waterproof boots make life easier. Good grip matters more than brand names here. And those extra socks?
Don’t overthink it. Just throw them in your bag. If you’ve got a little one with you, or you’re hiking with someone who needs a hand, don’t rush the crossings. Some spots are slower going, and that’s fine.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Stakkholtsgjá Canyon hike?
The hike is around 3 km (1.8 miles) round trip, typically taking 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing for photos and stream crossings.
How do I get to Stakkholtsgjá Canyon?
You can drive to Thórsmörk valley using a 4x4 vehicle. The canyon is located off F249, with parking available near the trailhead.
Is the Stakkholtsgjá Canyon hike difficult?
It is a moderate hike with river crossings and some rocky terrain. Most visitors find it manageable with good hiking boots.
What’s at the end of Stakkholtsgjá Canyon?
A stunning hidden waterfall enclosed by moss-covered canyon walls, perfect for photography and a peaceful experience.
