Gunnuhver Geothermal Trail

Background

History & Background

Gunnuhver has long been known as an active geothermal area near Reykjanesviti. The present surface field changed substantially in 2006 when increased activity damaged road and viewing infrastructure. New walking and viewing platforms were brought into use in 2010.

The Gunnuhver Geothermal Trail is a short walking experience through the high-temperature geothermal field east of Reykjanesviti. Reykjanes Geopark lists the route as less than one kilometre and easy, making it one of the most accessible places on the peninsula to see boiling mud, steam vents and altered geothermal ground at close range. The geothermal field is not static. Surface activity can shift as underground pressure and water pathways change. In 2006 the area became much more active, damaging a road and older viewing structures. New boardwalks and viewing platforms were introduced in 2010, allowing visitors to observe the geothermal features from safer positions. Gunnuhver also carries one of Reykjanes' best-known ghost stories. The spring is named after Guðrún, usually called Gunna, a troublesome ghost said to have terrorised the area until Eiríkur Magnússon, the priest at Vogsósar, devised a way to lead her into the hot spring. Visitors must remain on the boardwalks and platforms. Ground beside geothermal features can be thin, unstable and extremely hot, while steam can reduce visibility. The trail combines well with Reykjanesviti and Valahnúkamöl, which are only a short drive away.