Trölladyngja, Shield volcano in Skútustaðahreppur, Iceland
Trölladyngja is a shield volcano in Skútustaðahreppur, Iceland, with a long oblong crater measuring about 1,500 meters wide and 100 meters deep. The summit reaches approximately 1,468 meters above sea level and shapes this region's volcanic landscape.
The volcano last erupted roughly 5,000 years ago, leaving behind large basalt lava fields that spread northward. This ancient volcanic activity shaped the geological history of this Icelandic region.
The name Trölladyngja comes from Icelandic folklore and refers to trolls within the volcanic landscape of the north. This linguistic connection shows how Icelanders weave their land into their stories and traditions.
Visitors can explore the volcano on self-guided drives or with off-road vehicles, while monitoring stations track seismic activity in the area. The terrain requires suitable footwear and preparation for northern weather and changing conditions.
The slopes vary in steepness, starting at about 4 degrees near the base and increasing to about 8 degrees at higher elevations. These gradual changes in angle are typical of shield volcanoes and show how water and lava once flowed over the surface.
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