Iceland

Where is Iceland?

Iceland is located between North America and Europe , just south of the Arctic Circle. It is a volcanic island that has a history of intense glaciation. Due to it's location, Iceland's climate is cold (harsh), making life a challenge. Iceland's settlement and general history are influenced by the Vikings, but contemporary Icelanders love music and literature, and have a wicked sense of humor! Because Iceland sits on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, the geology is spectacular (informative) and accessible. It is not uncommon to have major volcanic eruptions occur frequently, as well as major earthquakes, but a benefit to the having this geologic activity is substantial amounts of geothermal energy!

Why Iceland?

Iceland is an incredible island to study geology (i.e., Land of Fire and Ice). Due to the harsh climate, slow developing soils, and a history of land mismanagement, there is little vegetation to obscure observations of volcanoes and rock formations. Some landscapes are found nowhere else on Earth (similar structures found on Mars) and many areas have significance in human history, too. Iceland is a paradise for hiking, bird watching, and photography, as there is a ruggedness to the landscape and the people.

I have taken over 80 students and faculty to Iceland over the course of 5 wonderful trips. In that time, Iceland has changed significantly, as it is a tourism hotspot!

What Kind of Geology Will I See in Iceland?

Exploring different volcano types

Finding lava bombs from recent eruptions

Visiting numerous waterfalls

Visiting Nesjavallavirkjun, a geothermal plant

Exploring glaciers and glacial landforms

Mapping fissure swarms indicative of tectonic activity

Exploring areas of intense geothermal activity

Mapping and describing volcanic landscapes

What Geology Should I Know BEFORE Going to Iceland?

Distinguish between types of igneous rocks
Describe rock properties
Know different types of lava
Understand processes and types of plate tectonic boundaries
idnetify and describe sills and (feeder and nonfeeder) dykes
Identify different kinds of folds and faults

Describe pillow lavas
Understand earthquake processes (waves), damage, and tsunamis
Sketch and understand hydrologic cycle
Describe glaciers, including movement and landforms
Analyze complex igneous landscape to reconstruct volcanic history
Understand spatial and temporal scales (rates)

What Makes a Visit to Iceland Unique?

Exploring Reykjavik Sculptures and Churches

Searching for Puffin (Preferably REAL Puffin!)

Sampling Icelandic Food and Meeting Icelanders

Experiencing a Zipline Graduation Ceremony

Eating Geothermally Baked Bread

Swimming in Geothermal Pools

Conversing with Well-known Icelandic Authors

Student Videos that Capture the Iceland Experience

Field Methods3.mp4

Final_Westman.mp4

GEOL377 VID (Anna, Griffin, Fatima).mp4

Accommodation and Transportation

Accommodation in Iceland typically includes a hostel in Reykjavik. This means shared facilities (bathroom, kitchen), including sleeping arrangements. It is important students understand they are a part of a small living community. The hostels offer a great place to meet other travelers, as well as to explore city sites and eateries.

Each day is spent driving from accommodation to two or more sites. This is typically done with larger vans (in Iceland, it is usually at least two 7 or 9 passenger vehicles, but sometimes includes smaller vehicles). Some days require very long drives to get to the sites, but the scenery along the way is worth it!

Instructor's Favorite Places in Iceland

On top of Hverfell volcano (Northern Iceland)

Jökulsárlón Glacier (Eastern Iceland)

Smokers in Myvatn (Northern Iceland)

Kleifervatn (Southwestern Iceland)

Westman Islands

Skaftafell / Vatnajökull National Park (Southeastern Iceland)

Yngri Stampar Crater Row (Southwestern Iceland)

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