Kárahnjúkar Dam
Enormous concrete-faced rockfill dam spanning Hafrahvammagljúfur and creating the vast Hálslón reservoir.
About Kárahnjúkar Dam
Kárahnjúkar Dam is one of Iceland’s largest engineering projects and forms the main reservoir for the Kárahnjúkar Hydropower Plant. The dam rises approximately 193 metres above its foundations and dramatically alters the landscape where Jökulsá á Dal once flowed freely through the canyon.
Our practical tips
✓The scale is difficult to appreciate until you see the dam and canyon in person.
✓Combine it with Hálslón and Hafrahvammagljúfur rather than driving this far for the dam alone.
✓Check Road 910 conditions before leaving Fljótsdalur.
Getting there and visiting
Access
Road 910 reaches the dam from Fljótsdalur. Although much of the route is paved, this is a remote Highland road and seasonal access should be checked before travelling.