Canonical URL: https://www.iceland.org/forests/asbyrgi Content updated: 2026-09-10 This is the Markdown representation of the page. Interactive tools and forms are available on the [HTML page](). Source-check and review dates retain the meanings stated in the article. --- # Ásbyrgi: Horseshoe Canyon and Forest in Vatnajökull National Park A horseshoe-shaped canyon and forest in Vatnajökull National Park, known from Norse legend, with birch woodland, a quiet pond, and good hiking trails. Updated September 10, 2026 · [Published by Iceland.org]() · [Writing & review]() Region North Iceland Part of Vatnajökull National Park. Check road access in winter. ## Quick Answer Ásbyrgi is a horseshoe-shaped canyon roughly 3.5 km long and 1 km wide, enclosed by cliffs up to 100 meters high. Birch and willow grow inside the canyon, alongside rowan and planted conifers. According to Norse mythology, the canyon was formed when Odin's eight-legged horse Sleipnir placed its hoof on the earth. Botnstjörn pond lies at the canyon's closed end, surrounded by cliffs and woodland. Sources and page update Updated: 2026-09-10 This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. Roads to Ásbyrgi may be closed in winter. Always check road.is and park websites before traveling. For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy. Official sources to check - [Weather (IMO)]() - [Road status (road.is)]() - [Vatnajökull National Park]() - [SafeTravel]() - [Environment Agency of Iceland]() Best for Canyon + Norse legend A flood-carved canyon with its own Norse legend and a forested floor. Access Moderate Paved/gravel roads; check seasonal closures. Pro tip Camp here The campsite is a good base for Jökulsárgljúfur and Dettifoss. ## What to Expect at Ásbyrgi - Canyon walls up to 100m around a sheltered birch forest - Botnstjörn pond at the canyon's closed end - Multiple hiking trails along the canyon floor and rim - Eyjan (the rock island that splits the canyon in two) - Rich birdlife including fulmars nesting on the canyon cliffs - Well-maintained campsite, a convenient base for the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon area ## Nearby Attractions - [Dettifoss]() (Europe's most powerful waterfall) - [Hljóðaklettar]() (echo rock formations) - [Húsavík]() (whale watching capital of Iceland) - Jökulsárgljúfur canyon trail running south to Dettifoss - Vesturdalur valley with columnar basalt formations ## How to Get There - The approach to Ásbyrgi is from Route 85 in Kelduhverfi - About 65 km east of Húsavík and 175 km from Akureyri via Route 1 and Route 85 - Check current road conditions for your full approach, especially when combining Ásbyrgi with Dettifoss - Gljúfrastofa and the inner canyon parking area are different starting points for walks - Combine with Dettifoss waterfall (40 km south) and Lake Mývatn (100 km west) for a full itinerary ## Best Time to Visit - Summer: Check the park’s campsite schedule and any trail notices for your dates - Long summer evenings give more time for the forest paths, but rain and wind still affect a visit - September: Autumn colors in the birch forest and fewer visitors - Winter: Check road conditions, trail ice and daylight before choosing a walk - Late June: Nesting birds active in the canyon, wildflowers blooming on the forest floor ## Two ways to walk through the forest The park’s [Á1 Botnstjörn loop]() starts at the parking area deepest inside the canyon. Allow about 30 minutes for the 1 km route. Stone steps descend to the pond platform; another set climbs to Útsýnishæð viewpoint. Those sections matter if steps are difficult for someone in your group. For a longer woodland walk, [Á3 Skógarstígur]() begins at Gljúfrastofa and follows the eastern cliff toward Botnstjörn. Its published 4 km distance and 1–2 hour estimate are one way. Budget for the return, or use the park map to connect with Á4 Undir Eyjunni. Along Á3, old charcoal pits record the forest’s former use for fuel and charcoal. The path also passes conifer plots planted in 1947–1977 among the natural birch woodland. These features make the longer route worthwhile even when the pond is the same destination. Planning help ## Ásbyrgi FAQs Quick answers with safety notes where it matters. **How was Ásbyrgi formed?** Geologists believe Ásbyrgi was carved by catastrophic glacial floods (jökulhlaups) from the Vatnajökull ice cap thousands of years ago. Norse legend says it was formed by the hoofprint of Odin's eight-legged horse Sleipnir. **Is Ásbyrgi part of a national park?** Yes, Ásbyrgi is part of Vatnajökull National Park (formerly Jökulsárgljúfur National Park), one of Europe's largest national parks. **Can I camp at Ásbyrgi?** Yes, there is a well-equipped campsite at Ásbyrgi with toilets, showers, and cooking facilities. It is a popular base for exploring the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon area. **What hiking trails are available?** Á1 is a 1 km loop from the inner parking area, taking about 30 minutes, with steps to the pond platform. Á3 is a 4 km one-way forest walk from Gljúfrastofa toward Botnstjörn, taking 1–2 hours before the return journey. **When is the best time to visit Ásbyrgi?** Choose your route for the conditions and available daylight. Approach Ásbyrgi from Route 85, and check current road and park notices before departure. Campsite and visitor-center schedules are separate from trail access. 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