Skaftafellsjökull Glacier

Eiríksjökull Glacier: Size, Ice Caves, Cap and Volcanoes

The Eiríksjökull Glacier is a glacier in the north-west of Langjökull in Iceland. Eiríksjökull Glacier  is one of the highest mountains in Iceland and was called Baldjökull until about 1700. The new name Eiríksjökull is named after the nearby mountain called Eiriksgnipa. It is influenced by Eirikur, who evaded capture by running into that mountain

Eiríksjökull Glacier has a height of 5,495 feet. Eiríksjökull Glacier covers an area of around 22 kilometers. It is located in the middle of Hallmundarhraun lava field, where the longest cave known as Surtshellir lava cube can be found. The Eiríksjökull glacier center of the plateau icefield is located at 64°46′N and 20°24′W, 6 km. The nearest city in Eiríksjökull Glacier is the Reykholt City. For about 33 kilometers, Reykholt is near Eiríksjökull Glacier. The distance of Eiríksjökull is 101 kilometers to Reykholt; it is a village in the valley of the river Reykjadalsá. 

What is the Size of Eiríksjökull Glacier?

The size of Eiríksjökull Glacier is one of the largest table mountains in Iceland. Reaching 5,495 feet in height with an area of 22 km2. The Eiríksjökull Glacier has a big area but due to climate changes, it is constantly receding. Eiríksjökull glacier is larger compared to Þórisjökull, but it is a popular glacier to hikers mainly because the walk is comfortable. 

What is the prominence of Eiríksjökull Glacier in Icelandic Culture?

Iceland offers a combination of intriguing landscapes. Eleven percent of the country is covered in glacial ice. Eiríksjökul is one of the 10 largest glaciers in Iceland. Every glacier has its own character, history, folklore and geological features. They regard them with respect and reserved awe. Glaciers have the most impact when it comes to Iceland culture. Icelanders enjoy outdoor activities because of the glaciers. 

Is There a Volcanic Activity in Eiríksjökull Glacier

Yes, there was volcanic activity in Eiríksjökull glacier on June 24, 2022. A 4.6 magnitude earthquake happened 13.8 kilometers south of the glacier Eiríksjökull. It is basically under Langjökull glacier. This earthquake was felt in all the Western part of Iceland. The Eiríksjökull plateau icefield was targeted for land system mapping.

What are the Tours to Eiríksjökull?

Eiríksjökull glacier has an excellent view on top. It will take about 3 hours to get onto the glacier. The road is accessible by transportation to the west side. The view of Eiríksjökull itself makes this a must-visit when in Langjökull. Eiríksjökull is in the middle of Hallmundarhraun. It is a good idea to visit the lava field and the popular longest cave known as Surtshellir lava tube. Eiríksjökull glacier offers a fantastic challenge for hikers because of its steep scree. 

What are the Similar Glaciers in Iceland to Eiríksjökull Glacier?

Similar glaciers in Iceland to Eiríksjökull glacier are listed below:

  • Svínafellsjökull Glacier: The Svínafellsjökull glacier is popular because of the scenic landscapes surrounding the glacier. Svínafellsjökull has been portrayed in popular movies and commercials; It is featured in the series “Game of Thrones”. It is one of the most popular glaciers in Iceland. 
  • Þrándarjökull Glacier: The Þrándarjökull is similar to Eiríksjökull glacier when it comes to its area. Þrándarjökull and Eiríksjökull glacier has an area of 22 km2. It has an elevation of 1,236 meters and is located 12 miles from Vatnajökull glacier. 

 

author avatar
Staff Writer