Kolugljúfur

Q: Hvar er Kolugljúfur?

Kolugljúfur er í Víðidal á Norðurlandi.

Q: Er Kolugljúfur náttúrulegt landform?

Já, Kolugljúfur er náttúrulegt gljúfur.

Q: Er Kolugljúfur friðlýstur?

Ekki er vitað til að hann sé friðlýstur.

Q: Er Kolugljúfur þekktur fyrir landslag?

Já, hann er þekktur fyrir gljúfurmyndun og foss.

Q: Er hægt að heimsækja Kolugljúfur?

Já, hann er aðgengilegur gestum.

TypeCanyon

RiverVíðidalsá

River in canyonYes

Accessible by carYes

ParkingYes

Marked trailYes

ViewpointYes

Kolugljúfur is a dramatic canyon located in the Víðidalur valley in northwest Iceland and is considered one of the region’s hidden natural gems. The canyon is approximately 1 km long and up to 40 meters deep, carved over thousands of years by the river Víðidalsá as it cut through layers of basalt and volcanic rock.

The canyon takes its name from the troll woman Kola, who according to Icelandic folklore once lived in the gorge. Legend has it that Kola was hostile toward travelers, but eventually fell into the waterfalls that now bear her name, known as Kolufossar.

Several waterfalls flow through the canyon, creating a powerful and picturesque landscape. Well-maintained walking paths and viewing platforms allow visitors to safely explore the area and enjoy spectacular views, making Kolugljúfur ideal for short walks, sightseeing, and photography.

Kolugljúfur is easily accessible, located just a short drive from Route 1 (the Ring Road), and is a popular stop for travelers who want to experience Iceland’s raw and dramatic nature without embarking on long hikes. The canyon is especially impressive in spring and early summer when water levels are at their highest.

If you are traveling through northwest Iceland, Kolugljúfur is well worth a visit and offers a striking example of Iceland’s rugged natural beauty.

Geological feature

River canyon shaped by Víðidalsá through lava and rock formations

Geology

Kolugljúfur was shaped by erosion from the Víðidalsá river as it cut down through the local bedrock. The river, waterfalls and exposed rock layers combine to form a narrow and dramatic canyon.