Skútustaðagígar: Iceland's Fascinating Pseudocraters
Iceland has many natural wonders, and some of its most unique formations aren't as well-known.
Skútustaðagígar, a group of pseudocraters located around Lake Mývatn, offers visitors the chance to view rare geological features while taking an easy hike through stunning landscapes, making it a great addition to any itinerary around North Iceland.
Key takeaways
- Skútustaðagígar has rare pseudocraters formed about 2,300 years ago when lava flowed over wet ground
- Located in Northeast Iceland near Lake Mývatn, right off Route 1 (Ring Road)
- Best visited from May to September, though each season is different
- Easy hiking trails range from 1.5 to 3.5 km with minimal climbing
- Rich in birdlife, especially during spring and summer
- Close to other attractions like Dimmuborgir or Mývatn Nature Baths for a full day trip
What's Skútustaðagígar?
Skútustaðagígar (said roughly as "skoo-ta-statha-gee-gar") is a collection of pseudocraters on the southern shore of Lake Mývatn in northeastern Iceland. Although they look like normal volcanic craters, these formations have a different origin.
Unlike typical craters that form from magma erupting through the earth, pseudocraters form when flowing lava crosses wet ground or shallow water. The heat turns the water to steam, causing explosions that throw volcanic debris into circular mounds without any direct connection to a magma source.
Think of them as "fake" volcanoes that never actually erupted. They result from fire meeting water rather than magma pushing upward. These grassy, bowl-shaped hills around the lakeshore create a landscape that looks almost otherworldly.
Skútustaðagígar contains one of the largest groups of pseudocraters on Earth. Similar formations exist in only a few places worldwide, including Hawaii, and scientists have found similar features on Mars. This makes the site valuable for geological research and extraordinary for a visit.
Formation, History & Geology
About 2,300 years ago, volcanic eruptions in the area sent lava flowing across the landscape. When this molten rock reached the wetlands around what is now Lake Mývatn, the trapped water underneath quickly turned to steam. As pressure built up, the steam exploded upward through the cooling lava crust, throwing volcanic material into the air that settled into the circular formations we see today.
The pseudocraters are part of the broader Krafla volcanic system. They formed when lava from the Lúdentaborgir–Þrengslaborgir fissure eruption flowed over marshy ground around the lake. The resulting explosions created dozens of crater-like mounds, ranging from just a few meters to around 50 meters across.
These formations have stayed mostly unchanged since their creation, becoming covered with grass and plants over the centuries. Early Icelandic settlers likely saw similar eruptions elsewhere in the region, as archaeological findings at the nearby Skútustaðir farm include layers of volcanic ash dating back to settlement times.
Local folklore is strong here. According to legends, the craters formed when trolls were caught by the rising sun while playing in the mud, turning them to stone. While scientists know the real explanation, the mythical story shows how special this landscape has felt to people throughout Iceland's history.
Location & How to Get There
Skútustaðagígar is located in northeastern Iceland, on the southern shore of Lake Mývatn. It sits directly off the Ring Road (Route 1), making it easy to reach.
If you're driving from Reykjavík, it's about a 6-hour journey (roughly 450 km) along the Ring Road. From Akureyri, Iceland's second-largest urban area, it's just a 90-minute drive (about 100 km) eastward. The site is also only 6 km southwest of Reykjahlíð, the main village on Lake Mývatn.
The simplest way to reach Skútustaðagígar is by car. You'll find a parking lot just off Route 848, which branches from Route 1 and loops around the southern part of Lake Mývatn. The pseudocraters are visible from the parking area, and the trails start nearby.
If you don't have a rental car, tour companies in Akureyri and Reykjahlíð offer day trips that include Skútustaðagígar as part of broader itineraries around the Mývatn area. Public transportation is limited in this region, so organized tours are the next best option if you don’t want or can’t drive by yourself.
The site is part of the popular Diamond Circle route, northern Iceland's answer to the more famous Golden Circle. This makes it easy to combine with other nearby attractions like Dimmuborgir, Hverfjall crater, and the Mývatn Nature Baths.
What makes Skútustaðagígar particularly good is that, unlike many of Iceland's natural wonders, you don't need to hike far or cross rugged terrain to experience it. The pseudocraters begin right at the parking area, making this site accessible to visitors of all ages and physical abilities.
Things to do at Skútustaðagígar
Beyond just looking at the views, there are several ways to experience and appreciate this unique geological landscape.
Hiking Skútustaðagígar
The main activity at Skútustaðagígar is hiking the marked trails that wind among the pseudocraters. There are two main paths:
- Crater Circle (Gígahringur): This shorter loop is about 1.5 km and takes 30-45 minutes to complete. It passes several prominent pseudocraters near the parking area and features informative signs that explain the geology. The trail is mostly flat with a few gentle slopes, making it suitable for almost everyone. I last visited in May 2023, and I loved it.
- Pond Circle (Tjarnarhringur): If you want a longer walk, this 3-3.5 km loop extends further around the wetlands and includes Stakhólstjörn pond. It takes 1-2 hours and includes a few steeper sections, but the extra effort rewards you with expansive views over Lake Mývatn and the pseudocrater field. This trail is accessible for most visitors, provided they have a moderate fitness level.
Both trails start near the parking area and are well-marked. Wooden boardwalks cover wetter sections, and you’ll see signs asking you to stay on designated paths to protect the fragile plants and prevent erosion.
Birdwatching
Lake Mývatn is known for its rich birdlife, and Skútustaðagígar offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching, especially in late spring and summer. The area hosts 14 out of Iceland's 16 duck species, including the rare Barrow's goldeneye, which nests almost exclusively in Iceland when in Europe.
Bring binoculars and walk quietly along the Pond Circle trail, particularly around Stakhólstjörn, to spot species like red-necked phalaropes, great northern divers (loons), and various waterfowl. May through July provides the best birdwatching, when many species are nesting or raising young.
Photography
The pseudocraters create a distinctive landscape that's great for photography. The contrast between the grassy mounds, blue water, and clear skies makes for striking images. For the best lighting conditions:
- Early morning or late evening provides soft light that shows the contours of the craters
- Climb to higher viewpoints on the trail for wide shots that show the scale of the pseudocrater field
- Include Lake Mývatn in wider shots for context and added beauty
- In spring and summer, look for wildflowers that add color to the foreground
Learning About Geology
The informational signs along the trails explain how pseudocraters form and what makes them geologically significant. This self-guided education turns a simple walk into an interesting lesson about Iceland's volcanic processes. If you're particularly interested in the science, consider downloading the Mývatn area geological guide before your visit or joining a guided tour led by a geologist.
Practical tips for visitors
Make the most of your visit with these essential insights on weather conditions, timing, and what to pack for your Skútustaðagígar trip.
Weather
Iceland's weather changes often, and the Mývatn area is no exception. Even in summer, temperatures typically range from 10 °C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), and sudden rain showers can occur. In spring and fall, expect cooler conditions between 0 °C and 10°C (32°F and 50°F), while winter brings freezing temperatures and often snow cover.
The area is also known for its wind, which can make it feel much colder than the actual temperature. The open landscape around Lake Mývatn offers little protection from gusts, so dress accordingly.
Best time to visit
Each season offers a different experience at Skútustaðagígar:
- Summer (June-August): Peak season brings the mildest weather, abundant birdlife, and lush green vegetation covering the craters. The Midnight Sun means you can visit late in the evening and still have plenty of light. This is also the busiest time with more tourists.
- Spring (April-May): This is a good time for birdwatching as migratory species return to nest. Fewer crowds mean a more peaceful experience, though trails might still have wet patches from melting snow. When I last visited, the weather was great, the crowds were thin, and, although the landscape wasn’t at its prettiest, it was rather nice.
- Autumn (September-October): The grass on the pseudocraters turns golden, creating beautiful color contrasts. Visitor numbers drop significantly, and you might have the trails largely to yourself, especially on weekdays.
- Winter (November-March): Snow often covers the pseudocraters, creating a stark, beautiful monochrome landscape. Daylight hours are limited (just 4-6 hours in December and January), and trails may be icy or covered in snow. While challenging, winter visits offer a completely different perspective and the chance to see the Northern Lights if the skies are clear.
For most visitors, late May through September offers the best balance of accessibility, weather, and natural beauty.
What to bring
- Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof hiking shoes or boots are ideal. The trails can be muddy, especially after rain or in spring.
- Clothing: Dress in layers regardless of the season. A waterproof outer layer is essential, as is a warm mid-layer even in summer. In winter, full cold-weather gear is necessary.
- Insect repellent: Lake Mývatn's name literally means "Midge Lake," and non-biting midges can be abundant in summer. A head net can also be useful during peak midge season.
- Binoculars: Essential if you're interested in birdwatching.
- Camera: The landscape is photogenic, so bring your camera and perhaps a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views.
- Water and snacks: There are no food services directly at the site, so bring what you need, especially water.
- Maps or offline GPS: Cell service can be patchy in rural Iceland, so having offline navigation is helpful.
Things to do & Places to visit Nearby
Skútustaðagígar works well as part of a broader exploration of the Lake Mývatn area. Within a short drive, you can visit:
- Dimmuborgir: Just 11 km east, these unusual lava formations resemble a dark fortress (which is what the name means). Legends say they're home to Iceland's Yule Lads and hidden folk.
- Hverfjall Crater: This massive tephra cone rises 463 meters above sea level and features a 1-km wide crater. A short but steep hike leads to the rim, offering expansive views of the Mývatn region.
- Mývatn Nature Baths: Iceland's northern answer to the Blue Lagoon, these geothermal baths offer relaxation in mineral-rich waters with lake views. Perfect after hiking.
- Grjótagjá Cave: A small lava cave with a hot spring inside, famous for a scene in Game of Thrones. Note that bathing is no longer allowed due to the unstable water temperatures.
- Krafla Volcanic Area: About 30 km northeast of Mývatn, this active volcanic area includes the Víti explosion crater with its vivid blue-green water and the Krafla Power Station, where you can learn about geothermal energy.
- Goðafoss Waterfall: One of Iceland's most beautiful waterfalls is just a 30-minute drive west of Mývatn, making it an easy addition to your itinerary.
- Húsavík: This fishing town, about 45 minutes north, is known as Iceland's whale-watching capital and also hosts the GeoSea geothermal sea baths.
For accommodation, the village of Reykjahlíð offers several options, ranging from hotels to guesthouses and camping (available in summer). The Icelandair Hotel Mývatn and Fosshotel Mývatn provide comfortable rooms with lake views, while more budget-conscious travelers can check out Hlíð Hostel or the campsite in Reykjahlíð.
Conclusion
Skútustaðagígar offers a rare chance to walk among geological formations that exist in just a few places on Earth. The combination of scientific interest, natural beauty, and accessibility makes these pseudocraters a highlight of any trip to northern Iceland.