Ásbyrgi Canyon

The Scottish-American couple disembark at the entrance to the Ásbyrgi campground, and this has now become a private tour.

According to Icelandic legend, the canyon was formed when Sleipnir, the mighty eight-legged flying horse of Óðinn, touched down with one foot.

Path to Ásbyrgi Canyon

According to Icelandic science, the canyon was carved out in a matter of days, by a catastrophic jökullhlaup, flowing northwards from Vatnajökull.

Whatever the cause, it's clear that massive forces were at work, moving enormous amounts of material.

Ásbyrgi Canyon - Botnstjörn

There's not enough time to get to and back from the canyon lookout, which the driver assures me is the best part of this park. Oh well - have to leave something for next time.