U.S. Department of the Interior

U.S. Geological Survey

Professional Paper 1746

Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers:

Historic and Modern

Hydrological Service Hydrological Service

NATIONAL ENERGY AUTHORITY NATIONAL ENERGY AUTHORITY
Cover photo: Oblique aerial photograph of Sólheimajökull, an outlet glacier on the southern 

margin of MÝRDALSJÖKULL, with black tephra from the 1918 eruption of Katla. View looking toward 

the northeast on 30 October 1985. The plateau of the Katla caldera is visible in the background. 

Photograph by Oddur Sigurðsson, National Energy Authority. See figure 171 on p. 181.
Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers:

Historic and Modern

By Oddur Sigurðsson and Richard S. Williams, Jr.

Icelandic sagas (13th century) provide the first written documentation of geographic names of Iceland’s 

glaciers, but most of the glacier names originated after 1890. This illustrated gazetteer documents 

269 modern glacier names used today in Iceland for its 14 ice caps, 2 contiguous ice caps, 109 outlet 

glaciers, 8 ice-flow basins, 3 ice streams, 55 cirque glaciers, 73 mountain glaciers and 5 valley glaciers. 

Iceland has 38 named snow patches, 21 surge-type glaciers (not including 7 other possibilities), and 

14 jökulhlaup deposits, locally called “jökull.” During the last half of the 20th century, 6 named glaciers 

“disappeared”: 3 mountain glaciers melted and 2 distributary outlet glaciers and 1 outlet glacier receded 

into the parent outlet glacier or ice-cap margin. 

Professional Paper 1746

U.S. Department of the Interior

U.S. Geological Survey

Prepared in cooperation with the

National Energy Authority (Iceland)
U.S. Department of the Interior

DIRK KEMPTHORNE, Secretary

U.S. Geological Survey

Mark D. Myers, Director

U.S. Geological Survey, Reston, Virginia: 2008

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the U.S. Government.

Although this report is in the public domain, permission must be secured from the individual copyright owners to 

reproduce any copyrighted materials contained within this report.

Suggested citation:

Sigurðsson, Oddur, and Williams, R.S., Jr., 2008, Geographic names of Iceland’s glaciers: Historic and modern: 

U.S. Geological Survey Professional Paper 1746, 225 p., plus app.

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data

Sigurðsson, Oddur.

Geographic names of Iceland’s glaciers: Historic and modern/ Author List

p. cm. –(U.S. Geological Survey professional paper ; 1746)

Includes bibliographic references.

1. Glaciers. I. Sigurðsson, Oddur. II. Williams, Richard S., Jr. 

 2008 06-

553′.09786′6—dc21

2001051109

ISBN 0-607-97815-9 (Set)

Preparation and editing of text for layout by Janice G. Goodell

Copy editing by John M. Watson

Illustrations prepared by Kirsten C. Healy and Denis K. Sun

Design and layout by Twila Darden Wilson
Preface

This is the second of three books about Iceland’s glaciers to be authored by Oddur 

Sigurðsson and Richard S. Williams, Jr. The three books are the result of a long-term 

collaboration between the two authors and cooperation between their two governmental institutions, the National Energy Authority (Orkustofnun) (http://www.os.is) 

and the U.S. Geological Survey (http://www.usgs.gov) under a Memorandum of 

Understanding between the Icelandic Centre for Research (Rannsóknamiðstöð Íslands, 

or RANNÍS) (http://www.rannis.is) and the U.S. Geological Survey.

The first book, Icelandic Ice Mountains, was published by the Icelandic Literary 

Society (Hið íslenska bókmenntafélag) (http://www.hib.is) in 2004 in cooperation with 

the Icelandic Glaciological Society and the International Glaciological Society:

Williams, R.S., Jr., and Sigurðsson, Oddur, eds., 2004, Draft of a physical, 

geographical, and historical description of Icelandic Ice Mountains on the 

basis of a journey to the most prominent of them in 1792–1794 (with four 

maps and eight perspective drawings) by Sveinn Pálsson: Reykjavík, The 

Icelandic Literary Society, in association with the Icelandic Glaciological 

Society (Reykjavík) and the International Glaciological Society 

(Cambridge, England), 183 p.

This second book, Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern, is 

being published in both English and Icelandic editions and in both printed and digital 

formats. The English edition, U.S. Geological Survey Professional Paper 1746, is 

Web accessible through the following URL address of the U.S. Geological Survey: 

http://pubs.usgs.gov/pp/pp1746

The third book, Glaciers of Iceland, is the 11th chapter (Chapter D) to be published 

in the U.S. Geological Survey Professional Paper 1386–A–K series (1988–2009) 

(see http://pubs.usgs.gov/fs/2005/3056) under the Glacier Studies Project 

(http://www.glaciers.er.usgs.gov). The Glaciers of Iceland includes a 1:500,000-scale 

map, Map of the Glaciers of Iceland.

Oddur Sigurðsson

National Energy Authority (Orkustofnun)

Hydrological Service (Vatnamælingar)

IS-108 Reykjavík, Ísland (Iceland)

e-mail: osig@os.is

Richard S. Williams, Jr.

U.S. Geological Survey

Woods Hole Science Center

Woods Hole, MA 02543-1598 U.S.A.

e-mail: geoinfo@comcast.net

iii
iv
Contents

Preface .........................................................................................................................................................iii

Abstract ........................................................................................................................................................1

Introduction...................................................................................................................................................2

User’s Guide...............................................................................................................................................37

Tradition of Icelandic Glacier Place-Names.......................................................................................38

Journals, Books, Maps, and Map Series with Place-Names of Glaciers ...........................................41

Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland.................................................................................................43

Acknowledgments ....................................................................................................................................210

References Cited...................................................................................................................................... 211

Appendix (Rist, 1985): 

Glaciers in Iceland (July 1985) ....................................................................................................A2-A5

Map of the Glaciers and the Main Snow Patches in Iceland (July 1985)...........................................A6

Letter from Sigurjón Rist to Richard S. Williams, Jr. (July 1985) .......................................................A7

Figures

1-10. Maps showing:

1. The eight regional glacier groups in Iceland and Landsat 5 Thematic Mapper 

 image mosaic of Iceland showing the distribution of glaciers............................................4

2. The VATNAJÖKULL group (VATNAJÖKULL, TUNGNAFELLSJÖKULL, 

 and glaciers on Snæfell) ................................................................................................ 8-9

3. The Mýrdalsjökull group (MÝRDALSJÖKULL, EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL, 

 TORFAJÖKULL and Kaldaklofsjökull, and Tindfjallajökull and Blesárjökull)..... 11-13

4. The Hofsjökull group (HOFSJÖKULL and glaciers in Kerlingarfjöll) 

 (Kerlingarfjallajöklar)...................................................................................................15-16

5. The Langjökull group ....................................................................................................... 18

6. SNÆFELLSJÖKULL ...................................................................................................... 19

7. Vestfjarðajöklar: (DRANGAJÖKULL and other glaciers)...........................................20-21

8. Norðurlandsjöklar: (named glaciers in Tröllaskagi, named glaciers east 

 of Eyjafjörður and environs) ........................................................................................25-27

9. Austfjarðajöklar: (ÞRÁNDARJÖKULL, HOFSJÖKULL, and other glaciers)............ 29-30

10. Maps of jökulhlaup deposits (Mýrdalssandur and the Öræfi district)...............................32

11-201. Oblique aerial photographs (unless otherwise indicated) showing:

11. Akstaðajökull and EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL ......................................................................45

12. Austari-Jökulsárjökull.......................................................................................................46

13. Austurtungnajökull........................................................................................................48

14. Ground photograph of Axarfellsjökull............................................................................48

15. Axlarjökull, Dökkurðarjökull, and Ljósurðarjökull.............................................................49

16. Álftabrekkujökull...............................................................................................................49

17. Barkárdalsjökull............................................................................................................. 51

18. Birnudalsjökull...............................................................................................................52

19. Blautukvíslarjökull.........................................................................................................53

v
vi

Figures (Continued)

20. Blágilsjökull and SNÆFELLSJÖKULL.........................................................................54

21. Blágnípujökull ................................................................................................................54

22. Blesárjökull ....................................................................................................................55

23. Blöndujökull ...................................................................................................................56

24. Borgarjökull, Botnajökull, Kisujökull, Skessujökull, Loðmundarjökull eystri, 

 and Hangandi..................................................................................................................57

25. Brattöldujökull ..................................................................................................................58

26. Landsat 3 RBV image and oblique aerial photograph of Breiðamerkurjökull...............59

27. SPOT-5 satellite image of Brimnesdalsjökull and Kistujökull...........................................60

28. Brókarjökull.................................................................................................................... 61

29. Brúarjökull and IRS-ID satellite image of Brúarjökull, Dyngjujökull, Kverkjökull, 

 and Eyjabakkajökull.......................................................................................................62

30. Brækur eystri, Klofajökull, and Þorvaldsjökull...........................................................63

31. Brækur vestri..................................................................................................................64

32. Bröndujökull .....................................................................................................................64

33. Bungujökull, Fossárjökull, Húsárjökull, and Kambsárjökull 

 (in Vindheimajökull group).............................................................................................65

34. Búrfellsjökull and Teigardalsjökull ..............................................................................66

35. Bægisárjökull .................................................................................................................66

36. Deildardalsjökull and Unadalsjökull ............................................................................67

37. SPOT image and oblique aerial photograph of DRANGAJÖKULL ................................68

38. Landsat 3 RBV image and oblique aerial photographs of Dyngjujökull........................70

39. EIRÍKSJÖKULL .............................................................................................................. 71

40. Entujökull........................................................................................................................72

41. Eyjabakkajökull..............................................................................................................72

42. Landsat image of EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL......................................................................73

43. Eyvindstungnajökull ..................................................................................................... 74

44. Falljökull and Virkisjökull..............................................................................................75

45. Fannborgarjökull, Jökulkinn, Langafönn, Loðmundarjökull eystri, 

 Loðmundarjökull vestri, Mænisfönn, and Mænisjökull .............................................75

46. Fellsárjökull and Þverártindsjökull .................................................................................76

47. Féeggstaðadalsjökull .......................................................................................................76

48. Fjallsjökull, Hrútárjökull, and ÖRÆFAJÖKULL ..........................................................77

49. Fláajökull ........................................................................................................................78

50. Flosajökull and Þrístapajökull ......................................................................................79

51. Fremri-Lambárjökull and Lambárjökull ............................................................................80

52. Gálgagilsjökull, Hjaltadalsjökull, Hörgárjökull, and Ólafarhnjúkajöklar ........................82

53. GEITLANDSJÖKULL......................................................................................................82

54. Geldingafellsjökull............................................................................................................83

55. Gígjökull..........................................................................................................................84

56. Glerárdalsjökull..............................................................................................................85

57. Gljúfurárjökull ................................................................................................................85

58. Gljúfursárjökull, Stigárjökull, Stórhöfðajökull, and ÖRÆFJÖKULL ...........................86

59. Gloppujökull and Þverárjökull ........................................................................................87
vii

Figures (Continued)

60. Grasárjökull and Lambárjökull .........................................................................................88

61. Grímslandsjökull, Kambsjökull, and Kotajökull..............................................................89

62. Grýtudalsjökull eystri and Grýtudalsjökull vestri..............................................................90

63. Grænalónsjökull...............................................................................................................90

64. Grænavatnsjökull and Kerlingarárjökull...........................................................................91

65. Hafrárjökull.......................................................................................................................92

66. Hafursárjökull...................................................................................................................92

67. Hagafellsjökull eystri.....................................................................................................92

68. Hagafellsjökull vestari...................................................................................................93

69. Ground photograph of Hagajökull fremri.......................................................................94

70. Ground photograph of Hagajökull innri .........................................................................94

71. Hagárdalsjökull, Kambfellsjökull, and Vaskárdalsjökull ...................................................95

72. Hamrajökull......................................................................................................................95

73. Hattarjökull.......................................................................................................................96

74. Hálsjökull........................................................................................................................97

75. Háöldujökull and Klakksjökull ......................................................................................98

76. Heiðinnamannajökull........................................................................................................98

77. Heinabergsjökull, Eyvindstungnajökull, and Skálafellsjökull...................................99

78. Heljardalsjökull...............................................................................................................100

79. Héðinsdalsjökull and Héðinsskarðajökull.......................................................................102

80. Hjaltadalsjökull ............................................................................................................103

81. Hjálpleysujökull ..............................................................................................................103

82. Hnjótajökull and Deildardalsjökull ...............................................................................103

83. Hoffellsjökull, Svínafellsjökull, and Viðborðsjökull .................................................104

84. Hofsárjökull, Sælujökull nyrðri, and Sælujökull syðri.....................................................105

85. Hofsdalsjökull.................................................................................................................105

86. Landsat image of HOFSJÖKULL.................................................................................. 107

87. Landsat image and oblique aerial photograph of HOFSJÖKULL................................. 107

88. Holárdalsjökull, Holárfjallsjökull nyrðri, and Holárfjallsjökull syðri.................................109

89. Hóladalsjökull, Kirkjufjallsdragsjökull, and Syðri-Króksárjökull .....................................109

90. Hóladalsjökull................................................................................................................. 110

91. Hólárjökull, Stigárjökull, and ÖRÆFAJÖKULL......................................................... 110

92. Hólatindajökull, Blágilsjökull, and SNÆFELLSJÖKULL...........................................111

93. Hrafnabjargajökull.......................................................................................................... 112

94. Hraunárdalsjökull nyrðri and Hraunárdalsjökull syðri .................................................... 112

95. Hrunárjöklar ................................................................................................................... 113

96. Hrútafellsjökull................................................................................................................ 114

97. HRÚTFELLSJÖKULL, Miðjökull, Vesturjökull, and Norðvesturjökull ........................... 115

98. Huldujökull ..................................................................................................................... 117

99. Hvannárjökull ................................................................................................................. 117

100. Hvarfdalsjökull and Kerlingajökull.................................................................................. 117

101. Hvítalækjarjökull............................................................................................................. 118

102. Hyrningsjökull and SNÆFELLSJÖKULL ................................................................... 118
viii

Figures (Continued)

103. Hörgárjökull and Myrkárjökull ...................................................................................... 120

104. Illagilsdalsjökull and Tungudalsjökull ............................................................................. 120

105. Illviðrajökull.................................................................................................................. 121

106. Jökulbotnajökull innri and Jökulbotnajökull ytri.............................................................. 122

107. Jökuldalsfönn ................................................................................................................. 122

108. Jökulsárgilsjökull............................................................................................................ 123

109. Kaldaklifsjökull and Seljavallajökull ............................................................................. 124

110. Kaldaklofsjökull ........................................................................................................... 125

111. Kaldalónsjökull ............................................................................................................ 125

112. Kambsjökull.................................................................................................................... 126

113. Kerlingajökull, Klaufabrekknajökull eystri, and Klaufabrekknajökull vestri .................... 127

114. Kerlingarjökull ................................................................................................................ 128

115. Kirkjujökull ................................................................................................................... 129

116. Kistufellsjökull ................................................................................................................ 129

117. Kistufjallsjökull ...............................................................................................................130

118. Kistujökull, Sælujökull nyrðri, and Sælujökull syðri .......................................................130

119. Klaufabrekknajökull, Kerlingajökull, and Klaufabrekknajökull vestri.............................. 131

120. Klifurárjökull................................................................................................................. 132

121. Kolbeinsdalsjökull, Lambárjökull, and Tungnahryggsjökull ........................................134

122. Kotajökull........................................................................................................................134

123. Kotárjökull, Rótarfjallsjökull, Gljúfursárjökull, and ÖRÆFAJÖKULL .................... 135

124. Krossárjökull................................................................................................................ 135

125. Kvarnárjökull ..................................................................................................................136

126. Kverkjökull.................................................................................................................... 137

127. Kverkkvíslarjökull and Kvíslarjökull ................................................................................ 137

128. Kvíahnúksjökull and SNÆFELLSJÖKULL.................................................................... 138

129. Kvíárjökull..................................................................................................................... 139

130. Kvíslajökull ................................................................................................................... 139

131. Landsat image and oblique aerial photograph of Köldukvíslarjökull ................... 140-141

132. Kötlujökull .................................................................................................................... 142

133. Lambadalsskarðsfönn.................................................................................................... 143

134. Lambahraunsjökull......................................................................................................... 143

135. Lambatungnajökull......................................................................................................144

136. Oblique and vertical aerial photographs of Lambárdalsjökull..................................... 145

137. Lambárjökull................................................................................................................... 146

138. Langafönn, Borgarjökull, Botnajökull, and Kisujökull............................................. 148

139. Landsat image of LANGJÖKULL.................................................................................. 149

140. Leiðarjökull.....................................................................................................................150

141. Leirufjarðarjökull ......................................................................................................... 151

142. Ljótarjökull.................................................................................................................... 152

143. Lónsjökull and GEITLANDSJÖKULL ...........................................................................153

144. Löngukvíslarjökull and Tungufönn .................................................................................153

145. Miklukvíslarjökull............................................................................................................155
ix

Figures (Continued)

146. Morsárjökull .................................................................................................................156

147. Móafellsjökull ...............................................................................................................156

148. Móskjónujökull............................................................................................................. 157

149. Múlajökull .....................................................................................................................158

150. Landsat image of MÝRDALSJÖKULL.......................................................................... 159

151. Nautárjökull and Trölladalsjökull .................................................................................... 161

152. Nauthagajökull............................................................................................................. 161

153. Norðurjökull and Suðurjökull .....................................................................................162

154. Norðurtungnajökull, Suðurfjallsjökull, and Austurtungnajökull ............................163

155. Okjökull.........................................................................................................................164

156. Reykjadalsjökull .............................................................................................................166

157. Ground photograph of Reykjarfjarðarjökull................................................................166

158. Rjúpnabrekkujökull ..................................................................................................... 167

159. Rótarjökull .................................................................................................................... 167

160. Sandfellsjökull .............................................................................................................168

161. Sátujökull......................................................................................................................169

162. Síðujökull...................................................................................................................... 170

163. Skaftafellsjökull and Svínafellsjökull......................................................................... 171

164. Skaftárjökull ................................................................................................................. 172

165. Skarphéðinsjökull........................................................................................................ 173

166. Oblique aerial photograph and Landsat image of Skeiðarárjökull.........................174-175

167. Skíðadalsjökull............................................................................................................. 176

168. Skrekkur......................................................................................................................... 178

169. Skriðudalsjökull and Lambárdalsjökull........................................................................... 179

170. Sléttjökull...................................................................................................................... 179

171. Sólheimajökull and Jökulsárgilsjökull .......................................................................... 181

172. Ground photograph of Sótajökull ................................................................................... 182

173. Steinsholtsjökull..........................................................................................................183

174. Suðurfjallsjökull...........................................................................................................184

175. Sveipsjökull and Syðri-Króksárjökull .............................................................................185

176. Svínadalsjökull and Móskjónujökull.............................................................................186

177. Sylgjujökull................................................................................................................... 187

178. Thoroddsengletscher .....................................................................................................188

179. Tindfjallajökull..............................................................................................................189

180. TORFAJÖKULL ............................................................................................................190

181. Tröllajökull ...................................................................................................................... 191

182. TUNGNAFELLSJÖKULL.............................................................................................. 191

183. Tungnakvíslarjökull ..................................................................................................... 193

184. Tungnárjökull ............................................................................................................... 193

185. Tungufönn ......................................................................................................................194

186. Ground photograph of Úlfárjökull* .................................................................................195

187. Vaskárdalsjökull .............................................................................................................196

188. Landsat image of VATNAJÖKULL................................................................................ 197
x

Figures (Continued)

189. Vatnsdalsjökull and Bessahlaðajökull............................................................................198

190. Vatnsdalsjökull 1, 2, and 3 .............................................................................................199

191. Vesturárdalsjökull...........................................................................................................200

192. Vesturdalsjökull ...........................................................................................................200

193. Þjórsárjökull .................................................................................................................202

194. Þorvaldsjökull and Ögmundarjökull ..........................................................................203

195. ÞÓRISJÖKULL .............................................................................................................204

196. ÞRÁNDARJÖKULL.......................................................................................................205

197. Þrístapajökull ...............................................................................................................206

198. Þverárjökull ..................................................................................................................207

199. Þverárjökull ....................................................................................................................207

200. Þverfellsjökull.................................................................................................................208

201. Öldufellsjökull..............................................................................................................209

Tables

1. Classification of types of glaciers in Iceland: Comparison of English and Icelandic 

 glaciological terms ................................................................................................................................3

2. Names of the glaciers of the Vatnajökull group ..................................................................................5-7

3. Names of the glaciers of the Mýrdalsjökull group...........................................................................10-11

4. Names of the Glaciers of the Hofsjökull Group ..............................................................................13-14

5. Names of the glaciers of the Langjökull group ...............................................................................17-18

6. SNÆFELLSJÖKULL and the names of its outlet glaciers..................................................................19

7. Names of the glaciers of Vestfirðir (Vestfjarðajöklar)...........................................................................20

8. Names of the glaciers of Norðurland (Norðurlandsjöklar) ..............................................................22-24

9. Names of the glaciers of Austfirðir (Austfjarðajöklar)...........................................................................28

10. Names of the jökulhlaup deposits........................................................................................................31

11. Names of snow patches .................................................................................................................39-40
1National Energy Authority, Grensásvegi 9, IS-108 Reykjavík, Iceland.

2U.S. Geological Survey, Woods Hole Science Center, 384 Woods Hole Road, 

Woods Hole, MA 02543-1598 U.S.A.

Abstract

Climatic changes and resulting glacier fluctuations alter landscapes. In the 

past, such changes were noted by local residents who often documented them in 

historic annals; eventually, glacier variations were recorded on maps and scientific 

reports. In Iceland, 10 glacier place-names are to be found in Icelandic sagas, and 

one of Iceland’s ice caps, Snæfellsjökull, appeared on maps of Iceland 

published in the 16th century. In the late 17th century, the first description of eight 

of Iceland’s glaciers was written. Therefore, Iceland distinguishes itself in having a 

more than 300-year history of observations by Icelanders on its glaciers. A long-term 

collaboration between Oddur Sigurðsson and Richard S. Williams, Jr., led to the 

authorship of three books on the glaciers of Iceland. Much effort has been devoted 

to documenting historical glacier research and related nomenclature and to physical 

descriptions of Icelandic glaciers by Icelanders and other scientists from as far back 

as the Saga Age to recent (2008) times. The first book, Icelandic Ice Mountains, was 

published by the Icelandic Literary Society in 2004 in cooperation with the Icelandic 

Glaciological Society and the International Glaciological Society. Icelandic Ice 

Mountains, was a glacier treatise written by Sveinn Pálsson in 1795 and is the first 

English translation of this important scientific document. Icelandic Ice Mountains 

includes a Preface, including a summary of the history and facsimiles of page(s) 

from the original manuscript, a handwritten copy, and an 1815 manuscript (without 

maps and drawings) by Sveinn Pálsson on the same subject which he wrote for 

Rev. Ebenezer Henderson; an Editor’s Introduction; 82 figures, including facsimiles 

of Sveinn Pálsson’s original maps and perspective drawings, maps, and photographs 

to illustrate the text; a comprehensive Index of Geographic Place-Names and Other 

Names in the treatise; References, and 415 Endnotes.

Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: 

Historic and Modern

By Oddur Sigurðsson1 and Richard S. Williams, Jr.2
2 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Professional Paper 1746 (this book) is the second of the three books; it is being 

published in both English and Icelandic editions. This book provides information 

about all named glaciers in Iceland, historic and modern. Descriptions, with 

geographic coordinates, and bibliographic citations to all glacier place-names on 

published maps, books, and scientific articles are included. Maps, oblique aerial 

photographs, ground photographs, and satellite images document each of the 269 

modern named glaciers of Iceland.

The third book, Glaciers of Iceland, is Chapter D of the 11-chapter [volume] 

U.S. Geological Survey Professional Paper 1386-A–K. Chapter D includes a 

1:500,000-scale Map of the Glaciers of Iceland; it is a comprehensive historical 

and modern review and assessment of what is currently known about glaciers in 

Iceland’s eight Regional Glacier Groups from a review of the scientific literature and from analysis of maps and remotely sensed data (ground, airborne, and 

satellite); topics include geology and geography, climate and climate variability, 

types of glaciers, history of glacier variation (including the 21 surge-type glaciers), 

and frequency and magnitude of volcanic and lacustrine jökulhlaups.

Introduction

The primary objective of writing this book, the second in a series of three 

on the glaciers of Iceland,3 was to compile the geographic names of all of the 

different types of glaciers of Iceland (table 1) and organize the glacier types into 

eight Regional Glacier Groups (fig. 1). This is a modification of the geographic 

subdivision of the glacierized regions of Iceland proposed by Rist (1985) 

(appendix): Vatnajökull Group, Mýrdalsjökull Group, Hofsjökull Group, Langjökull 

Group, Snæfellsjökull, Vestfjarðajöklar, Norðurlandsjöklar, and Austfjarðajöklar. 

Tables 2–9, with accompanying maps (figs. 2–9), list all of the modern place-names 

of Iceland’s 269 glaciers in the eight Regional Glacier Groups that are in current 

use (2008) in Iceland, including 14 ice caps, 2 contiguous ice caps, 109 outlet 

glaciers, 8 ice-flow basins (HOFSJÖKULL), 3 ice streams (Breiðamerkurjökull), 

55 cirque glaciers, 73 mountain glaciers, and 5 valley glaciers. The 14 named jökulhlaup deposits are listed in table 10, with accompanying map (fig. 10). Jökulhlaup 

deposits are called “jökull” by local farmers (for example, “Lambajökull” on 

Mýrdalssandur and “Svartijökull” in the Öræfi district). The 38 named snow patches 

(54 percent in Norðurland), including many named by Rist (1985), are listed in 

table 11 and in the Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland. Figures 11–201 are 

oblique aerial photographs, ground photographs, and satellite images that illustrate 

each of Iceland’s 269 glaciers. For each glacier place-name used in this book, 

the preferred modern spelling is shown in bold upper-case letters if an ice cap, 

and in bold lower-case letters if an outlet glacier or other type of glacier; names 

of 21 surge-type glaciers are bold and underlined (including two ice streams of 

Breiðamerkurjökull). Seven other possible surge-type glaciers, on the basis of 

anecdotal evidence, are noted. The 2008 total does not include six named glaciers 

that have “disappeared” during the second half of the 20th century: three mountain 

glaciers that melted completely and two distributary outlet glaciers and one outlet 

glacier that receded into their respective ice caps.

3The three books are: Icelandic Ice Mountains (Williams and Sigurðsson, 2004); Geographic Names 

of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern (this book; 2008); and Glaciers of Iceland, 1 of 11 volumes 

in the Satellite Image Atlas of Glaciers of the World series (U.S. Geological Survey Professional Paper 

1386-D) (Sigurðsson and Williams, in press). The latter book includes a plate, a 1:500,000-scale Map of 

the Glaciers of Iceland, with a 1:250,000-scale inset map of Norðurlandsjöklar.
Introduction 3

Table 1. Classification of types of glaciers in Iceland: Comparison of English and Icelandic glaciological terms.

[--, not classified]

Eyþórsson (1963b)

Armstrong and others (1973) Müller and others (1977) 

(primary 

classification 

in bold)

Johansson (1984)

(source of Icelandic names:

Sigurður Thorarinsson and 

Icelandic English Helgi Björnsson)

-- -- -- -- hveljökull (plateau glacier) 

jökulhetta (Eiríksjökull; 

Vatnajökull and Mýrdalsjökull 

are jökulskildir or jökulflákar)

jökulhetta ice cap ice cap jökulhvel, hveljökull (ice cap) 

skriðjökull (outlet glacier, glacier 

tongue) 

breiðjökull (wallsided glacier) 

(Síðujökull)

skriðjökull

jökultunga

outlet glacier

glacier tongue

outlet glacier skriðjökull (outlet glacier)

falljökull falljökull ice fall ice fall falljökull (ice fall) 

rótarjökull rótarjökull piedmont glacier piedmont glacier rótarjökull (piedmont glacier)

-- strandjökull ice piedmont -- --

meginjökull (Greenland ice sheet) ísbreiða,

jökulbreiða

ice sheet continental ice sheet ísbreiða

(ice sheet) 

-- hjarn firn -- hjarn (firn) 

-- -- -- ice field ísbreiða (ice field) 

falljökull (daljökull) daljökull valley glacier valley glacier (alpine 

glacier)

alpajökull, fjalljökull (alpine glacier) 

-- dauður jökull stagnant glacier -- staðnaður jökull (stagnant glacier)

fönn (snow drift) fönn snow drift, firn -- skafi, snjóskafl, skafrenningur

(snow drift)

ís (ice) ís ice -- jökulís (glacier ice) 

jökull (glacier) jökull glacier -- jökull (glacier) 

-- jökulþilja ice shelf ice shelf jökulþilja (ice shelf) 

jökulrastir (ice streams) jökulrastir ice streams -- --

-- -- -- glacieret and snowfield fannbreiða (snow field)

-- -- -- skafi, hjarnfönn (snow patch)
4 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

24°W 22° 20° 18° 16° 14°

64°30'

66°N

0 100 Kilometers

A

Norðurlandsjöklar 

(fig. 8)

Vatnajökull Group (fig. 2)

Austfjarðajöklar 

(fig. 9)

Hofsjökull Group (fig. 4)

Langjökull Group 

(fig. 5)

Snæfellsjökull (fig. 6)

Mýrdalsjökull Group 

(fig. 3)

Vestfjarðajöklar

(fig. 7)

0 100 Kilometers

24°W

66°N

64°30’

22° 20° 18° 16° 14°

B

Figure 1. A, Map of the eight Regional 

Glacier Groups in Iceland (see 

tables 2–9). 

B, Landsat 5 Thematic Mapper 

image mosaic of Iceland showing 

the distribution of glaciers (white), 

vegetation (green), lightly vegetated 

or unvegetated areas, including bare 

rock and sediment (various shades of 

brown), and water (blue). The image 

map (Ísland Gróðurmynd©), was 

published by the National Land Survey 

of Iceland (Landmælingar Íslands) in 

1993 at an original scale of 1:600,000. 

Used with permission: ©National Land 

Survey of Iceland, License LO307005.
Introduction 5

Table 2. Names of the glaciers of the Vatnajökull group.

[--, not classified]

Modern name Alternative names/spelling variations Historic names

VATNAJÖKULL and its outlet glaciers (fig. 2A):

Austurtungnajökull Skyndidalsjökull --

Axarfellsjökull Öxarfellsjökull, Axarfjallsjökull, and Axarjökull --

Breiðamerkurjökull -- Fellsjökull (eastern part)

Brókarjökull Steinajökull --

Brúarjökull -- Jökuldalsjökull

Dyngjujökull Kistufellsjökull --

Eyjabakkajökull -- Fljótsdalsjökull

Eyvindstungnajökull Sultartungnajökull, Sultartungujökull, and 

Hálsajökull

--

Falljökull -- --

Fellsárjökull Fellsjökull, Bríkurjökull, and Þverártindsjökull --

Fjallsjökull Ærfjallsjökull, Hrútárjökull eystri, and 

Eystri Hrútárjökull

Hrútárjökull

Fláajökull -- Mýrajöklar, Mýrajökull, Hólmsárjökull, and Hólsárjökull

Geldingafellsjökull Blöndujökull (abandoned) --

Gljúfursárjökull -- --

Grænalónsjökull -- --

Heinabergsjökull Eystri-Heinabergsjökull, Heinabergsjökull eystri Heiðnabergsjökull, Heinabergsjöklar, 

Heinabergsjökull, and Mýrajöklar

-- -- Hoffellsdalsjökull

Hoffellsjökull -- Norðurfellsjökull

Hólárjökull -- --

Hrútárjökull -- Hrútárjökull vestri, Hrútárjöklar

-- Kálfafellsjökull, Kálfafellsjöklar

Kotárjökull Rótarfjallsjökull (combined with Rótarfjallsjökull) Flögujökull [Slögujökull]

Kverkjökull -- --

Kverkkvíslarjökull Kverkjökull (abandoned) --

Kvíárjökull -- --

Kvíslarjökull -- --

Köldukvíslarjökull -- --

Lambatungnajökull Þórðarjökull, Lambatungujökull (misspelling) --

Morsárjökull -- --

-- -- Mýrajöklar

Norðurtungnajökull -- --

Rjúpnabrekkujökull -- --

Rótarfjallsjökull Rótarfjallsjökull (combined with Kotárjökull) --

Síðujökull -- Nyrðri-Skeiðarárjökull, Skeiðarárjökull nyrðri

Skaftafellsjökull -- Skaptafellsjökull

Skaftárjökull -- Skaptárjökull

Skarphéðinsjökull --
6 Geologic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Modern name Alternative names/spelling variations Historic names

Skálafellsjökull Vestri-Heinabergsjökull, Heinabergsjökull vestri, 

and Heinabergsjökull vestari

Heinabergsjöklar, Heinabergsjökull

Skeiðarárjökull -- --

Stigárjökull -- --

Stórhöfðajökull -- --

Suðurfjallsjökull -- --

Svínafellsjökull -- --

Svínafellsjökull -- --

Sylgjujökull -- --

Tungnárjökull Tungnaárjökull, Tungnárjöklar --

VATNAJÖKULL -- AUSTURJÖKLAR, AUSTURJÖKULL, 

GRÍMSVATNAJÖKULL, and KLOFAJÖKULL

Vesturdalsjökull -- --

Viðborðsjökull -- --

Virkisjökull Falljökull vestari --

Contiguous ice cap:

ÖRÆFAJÖKULL -- HNAPPAFELLSJÖKULL, HNAPPAVALLAJÖKLAR, 

HNAPPAVALLAJÖKULL, 

KNAPPAFELLSJÖKULL, SANDFELLSJÖKULL, and 

JÖKULL

Other glaciers:

Birnudalsjökull Birnujökull --

Skrekkur -- --

Internal ice domes:

“BÁRÐARBUNGA” “BÁRÐARJÖKULL,” “BÁRDHARNÚPUR,” and 

“BÁRÐARGNÍPA”

--

 --

“BREIÐABUNGA” --

“HÁABUNGA” “JÖKULBUNGA” --

Named ice streams of BREIÐAMERKURJÖKULL:

Esjufjallajökull -- --

Mávabyggðajökull -- --

Norðlingalæðarjökull -- --

Historic ice-margin names:

Heinabergsjökull -- --

Herðubreiðarjökull -- --

Hornafjarðarjökull Hornafjarðarjöklar --

Kálfafellsjökull -- --

Lónsjökull Lónjökull --

Mýrajökull Mýrajöklar --

Suðursveitarjökull -- --

Table 2. (Continued) Names of the glaciers of the Vatnajökull group.

“BÁRÐARJÖKULL,” “BÁRDHARNÚPUR,” and “BARÐARGNÍPA”
Introduction 7

Modern name Alternative names/spelling variations Historic names

Súlujökull -- --

-- Tungnárjöklar --

TUNGNAFELLSJÖKULL and its outlet glaciers (fig. 2B):

TUNGNAFELLSJÖKULL

FLJÓTSJÖKULL SPRENGISANDSJÖKULL, SANDJÖKULL, TUNGNAJÖKULL, and BLÁNÝPUJÖKULL

Hagajökull fremri Hagajöklar, Fremri-Hagajökull --

Hagajökull innri Hagajöklar, Innri-Hagajökull --

Named glaciers on Snæfell (fig. 2C):

Axlarjökull -- --

Dökkurðarjökull Grjótárjöklar, Tvíburajöklar --

Ljósurðarjökull Grjótárjöklar, Tvíburajöklar --

Sótajökull Hálsajökull --

Table 2. (Continued) Names of the glaciers of the Vatnajökull group.

In the compilation of this book, an effort was made to cite every geographic 

place-name of Iceland’s glaciers that has either (1) appeared in the historic and 

scientific literature, (2) been published on individual maps or on formal (official) 

map series of Iceland [maps or map series published by the Danish General Staff/

Danish Geodætic Institute, Landmælingar Íslands (LMÍ) (Iceland Geodetic Survey/

National Land Survey of Iceland), and U.S. Army Map Service (AMS)/U.S. Defense 

Mapping Agency (DMA)/National Imagery and Mapping Agency (NIMA)/National 

Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA)], or (3) been included on maps in scientific 

books and journal articles. Published documents, such as books, journal articles, 

and maps, represent edited source material, that has been formally reviewed technically, thereby giving place-names described in this book an imprimatur of authority. 

Topographic and other thematic maps published by the National Land Survey of 

Iceland at various scales, however, often have a marked inconsistency in geographic 

location, spelling, and choice of names of glaciers or an inexplicable absence of 

glacier names, including the latest 1:50,000-scale map series, C761, which still (in 

2008) only covers approximately 50 percent of Iceland.

Examples of the source materials used include the 1:50,000-scale fjórðungsblöð (118 map sheets), the 1:100,000-scale atlasblöð (renamed atlaskort, 87 map 

sheets), the 1:250,000-scale aðalkort yfir Ísland (and new series, 9 map sheets), 

and the 1:250,000-scale jarðfræðikort af Íslandi (Geological Map of Iceland, old 

and new) series (9 map sheets published or in preparation), the 1:50,000-scale U.S. 

Army Map Service (AMS) Series C762 maps (297 map sheets), the 1:50,000-scale 

Landmælingar Íslands (LMÍ)/U.S. Defense Mapping Agency (DMA), (LMÍ/DMA) 

maps (199 LMÍ/200 DMA map sheets), as well as maps and articles in various 

Icelandic reports and journals (for example, Jökull (J), Árbók Ferðafélags Íslands

(ÁFÍ), Náttúrufræðingurinn], Landið þitt (6 volumes), various foreign reports and 

scientific journals (for example, Journal of Glaciology, Annals of Glaciology, 

Geografisk Tidsskrift, Petermanns Geographische Mitteilungen, Fluctuations 

of Glaciers/World Glacier Inventory (International Association of Hydrological 

Sciences, UNEP, and UNESCO), Geografiska Annaler), Þorvaldur Thoroddsen’s 

many publications, especially his four-volume Ferðabók series (1913, 1914a, b, 

1915) and his Lýsing Íslands (v. 2, VII, Jöklar, 1911), Sigurdur Thorarinsson (1943), 
8 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Approximate coverage of fig. 26A

Þórðarhyrna

18°W 16°W

64°30’N

20 KILOMETERS 10 0

Kvíárjökull

Breiðamerkurjökull

Hrútárjökull

Hólárjökull

Stigárjökull

Fjallsjökull

Fellsárjökull

“BREIÐABUNGA”

Dyngjujökull

Brúarjökull

Kverkjökull

Skarphéðinsjökull

Lambatungnajökull

Skálafel sl öj kull

Eyjabakkajökull

Skrekkur

Brókarjökull

Síðujökull

Köldukvíslarjökull

Sylgjujökull

Tungnárjökull

Skaftárjökull

VATNAJÖKULL

“HÁABUNGA”

Grímsvötn

Grímsfjall

Skeiðarárjökull

Stórhöfðajökull

Glj fursárjökull ú

Kotárjökull

Falljökull

Virkisjökull

Svínafellsjökull

Skaftafellsjökull

Morsárjökull

Grænalónsjökull

Rjúpnabrekkujökull

“BÁRÐARBUNGA”

Birnudalsjökull

Austurtungnajökull

Norðlingalæðarjökull

Rótarfjallsjökull

ÖRÆFAJÖKULL

Fláajökull

Eyvindstungnajökull

Heinabergsjökull

Viðborðsjökull

Svínafellsjökull

Grasgiljatindur

Norðurtungnajökull

HOFSJÖKULL

 (fig. 9A)

Snæfell (fig. 2C)

TUNGNAFELLSJÖKULL(fig. 2B)

Kverkkvíslarjökull

Kvíslarjökull

Geldingafellsjökull

Vesturdalsjökull

Suðurfjallsjökull

Axarfellsjökull

Sauðhamarstindur

Esjufjallajökull

Mávabyggðajökull

Hoffellsjökull

A

Hamarinn

Approximate coverage of fig. 131A

Pálsfjall

Skaftárkatlar

Figure 2.

A, Map of VATNAJÖKULL and its outlet glaciers.
Introduction 9

0 1 2 KILOMETERS

TUNGNAFELLSJÖKULL

Hagajökull innri

Hagajökull 

fremri

B

64°45'N

17°50'W

15°36'W 15°34' 15°32'

SNÆFELL

C

Axlarjökull

Dökkurðarjökull

Ljósurðarjökull

Sótajökull

0 .5 1 KILOMETER

64°48’N

Figure 2. B, Map of TUNGNAFELLSJÖKULL

and its outlet glaciers; and C, map of glaciers 

on Snæfell.
10 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Table 3. Names of the glaciers of the Mýrdalsjökull group.

[--, not classified]

Modern name Alternative names/spelling 

variations Historic names

MÝRDALSJÖKULL and its outlet glaciers ( fig. 3A):

MÝRDALSJÖKULL MIÐDALSJÖKULL, AUSTURJÖKULL, EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL,

MIRDALSJÖKULL, and 

MÝDALSJÖKULL

HÖFÐABREKKUJÖKULL, HÖFÐAJÖKULL, HÖFÐÁRJÖKULL, 

KÖTLUGJÁRJÖKULL, KÖTLUJÖKULL, SÓLHEIMAJÖKULL, 

AUSTURJÖKLAR, and ÞYKKVABÆJARJÖKULL

Entujökull -- --

Hafursárjökull -- --

-- -- Hrunakvíslarjökull

Hrunárjöklar -- --

Huldujökull Hvítijökull --

Jökulsárgilsjökull -- --

Klifurárjökull Klifandajökull, Klifandijökull --

Krossárjökull -- --

Kötlujökull Höfðabrekkujökull Kötlufalljökull

Sandfellsjökull -- --

Sléttjökull Mælifellsjökull --

Sólheimajökull -- --

Thoroddsengletscher -- --

Tungnakvíslarjökull -- --

Öldufellsjökull -- --

Names of internal ice domes:

“GOÐABUNGA” -- --

“HÁBUNGA” “HÁABUNGA” --

“MERKURJÖKULL” “ÞÓRSMERKURJÖKULL” Merkrjökull

Ice-margin names:

Botnjökull -- Emstrujökull, Botnjökull

Goðalandsjökull -- --

Hrunajökull -- --

-- -- Sólheimajökull

EYJAFJALLAJÖLKULL and its outlet glaciers fig. 3B):

EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL AUSTURJÖKULL, HÁJÖKULL

Akstaðajökull Kaplaskarðsjökull --

Gígjökull Falljökull Skriðjökull

Hvannárjökull -- --

Kaldaklifsjökull -- --

Seljavallajökull -- Tungugilsjökull

Steinsholtsjökull -- --
Introduction 11

19°15'W 19°W 18°45'W

63°45'N

63°35'N

0 5 10 KILOMETERS

“HÁBUNGA”

MÝRDALSJÖKULL

Sléttjökull

Entujökull

Sandfellsjökull

Jökulsárgilsjökull

Huldujökull

Klifurárjökull

“GOÐABUNGA”

Krossárjökull

Hrunárjöklar

Öldufellsjökull

Hafursárjökull Thoroddsengletscher

Sólheimajökull

Kötlujökull

B o t n j ö k u l l

Tungnakvíslarjökull

Hrunajökull

G o ð a l a n d s j ö k u l l

“MERKURJÖKULL”

A

Modern name Alternative names/spelling 

variations Historic names

TORFAJÖKULL and Kaldaklofsjökull (fig. 3C):

TORFAJÖKULL -- --

Kaldaklofsjökull -- --

Tindfjallajölkull and Blesárjökull (fig. 3D):

Tindfjallajökull Tindafjallajökull --

Blesárjökull -- --

Table 3. (Continued) Names of the glaciers of the Mýrdalsjökull group.

Figure 3. A, Map of MÝRDALSJÖKULL and its outlet glaciers.
12 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Figure 3. B, Map of EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL

and its outlet glaciers; and C, map of 

TORFAJÖKULL and Kaldaklofsjökull.

0 2 4 KILOMETERS

EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL

Gígjökull

Hvannárjökull

Kaldaklifsjökull

Seljavallajökull

Steinsholtsjökull

63°40'N

63°35'N

19°45'W 19°30'W

B

Akstaðajökull

19°6'W 19°W 18°54'W

63°53'N

63°56'N

0 2 4 KILOMETERS

TORFAJÖKULL

Kaldaklofsjökull

C
Introduction 13

19°39'W 19°36'W 19°33'W

63°47'N

63°48'N

63°49'N

Blesárjökull

T i n d f j a l l a j ö k u l l

0 1 2 KILOMETERS

Figure 3. D, Map of Tindfjallajökull and 

Blesárjökull.

Table 4. Names of the Glaciers of the Hofsjökull Group.

[--, not classified]

Modern name Alternative names/spelling 

variations Historic names

HOFSJÖKULL and its outlet glaciers (fig. 4A):

HOFSJÖKULL -- ARNARFELLSJÖKULL

Austari-Jökulsárjökull -- --

Álftabrekkujökull -- --

Blautukvíslarjökull -- --

Blágnípujökull Blágnýpujökull --

Blöndujökull -- --

Brattöldujökull -- --

Háöldujökull1 -- --

Illviðrajökull Illviðrahnjúkajökull --

Klakksjökull Klakkajökull --

Kvíslajökull -- --

Lambahraunsjökull -- --

Löngukvíslarjökull -- --

Miklafellsjökull -- --

Miklukvíslarjökull -- --

Múlajökull -- --
14 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Modern name Alternative names/spelling 

variations Historic names

Nauthagajökull1 Ólafsfellsjökull --

Rótarjökull -- --

Sátujökull Eystri-Sátujökull, 

Lambahraunsjöklar

Tungufönn -- --

Tvífellsjökull Lambahraunsjöklar --

Þjórsárjökull -- --

Þverfellsjökull -- --

Name of internal ice dome:

“MIKLAFELL”

Ice-margin names:

 -- -- Eyfiringajökull

Named glaciers of Kerlingarfjöll (Kerlingarfjallajöklar) (fig. 4B):

Borgarjökull -- --

Botnajökull -- --

Fannborgarjökull -- --

Hangandi -- --

Hattarjökull -- --

Jökulkinn -- --

Kisujökull -- --

Langafönn -- --

Loðmundarjökull eystri Eystri-Loðmundarjökull, 

Innri-Loðmundarjökull

--

Loðmundarjökull vestri Vestri-Loðmundarjökull, 

Ytri-Loðmundarjökull

--

Mænisfönn -- --

Mænisjökull -- --

Skessujökull -- --

Glaciers mapped in 1942 which have since disappeared (melted):

Forslujökull

Snótarjökull

1

Possible surge-type glacier.

Table 4. (Continued) Names of the Glaciers of the Hofsjökull Group.
Introduction 15

HOFSJÖKULL

Kvíslajökull

Blöndujökull

Blágnípujökull

Álftabrekkujökull

Sátujökull

Múlajökull

Tungufönn

Lambahraunsjökull

Löngukvíslarjökull

Klakksjökull

Rótarjökull

Blautukvíslarjökull

Kerlingarfjallajöklar

(fig. 4B)

Tvífellsjökull

Miklukvíslarjökull

Þjórsárjökull

Háöldujökull

Brattöldujökull

A

Þverfellsjökull

Nauthagajökull

Miklafellsjökull

Austari-Jökulsárjökull

Illviðrajökull

0 10 KILOMETERS

19°W

64°40'

64°50'

65°N

Figure 4. A, Map of HOFSJÖKULL and its outlet glaciers.
16 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Kisujökull

Loðmundarjökull

vestri

Hattarjökull

Mænisfönn

Mænisjökull

Langafönn

Botnajökull

Hangandi

Borgarjökull

Fannborgarjökull

Jökulkinn

0 .5 1 KILOMETER

64°37'

64°38'

64°39'N

19°18'W 19°16' 19°14' 19°12'

Loðmundarjökull

eystri

Skessujökull

B

Figure 4. B, Map of glaciers in Kerlingarfjöll (Kerlingarfjallajöklar).

and Sigurjón Rist (1985). The latter reference (Rist, 1985) is of special importance 

in providing names of glaciers (and snow patches) throughout Iceland, with the 

exception of most of the outlet glaciers of Vatnajökull and the other ice caps, which 

Rist did not list separately. Rist’s (1985) unpublished text, map, and transmittal letter 

are reproduced in the appendix of this book.

The first immigrants to Iceland, the Norse from Norway but also Norse and 

Celts from the British Isles and Ireland and Norse from other parts of Scandinavia, 

brought the word jökull (glacier) with them and began the process of naming 

Iceland’s glaciers, a process that still continues today (see Björnsson, 1988). As 

noted by Østrem and Haakensen (1993), the oldest Norwegian word for glacier still 

in use in Norway is jøkul, meaning ice cap; for example, the sixth largest glacier in 

Norway is Hardangerjøkulen. The first Icelanders noted the milky color of rivers 

that descended from the highlands and called them Hvítá or Jökulsá, correctly 

drawing the inference that such rivers had their source in a jökull, as was their experience in Norway (compare Thorarinsson, 1960, although contradicted in Egilssaga, 

Snorri Sturlason’s early 13th century saga). The Book of Settlements-Landnámabók 

(Pálsson and Edwards, 1972; Benediktsson, 1986) refers to numerous Jökulsá. 
Introduction 17

Table 5. Names of the glaciers of the Langjökull group.

[--, not classified]

Modern name Alternative names/spelling variations Historic names

LANGJÖKULL and its outlet glaciers (fig. 5):

LANGJÖKULL LÁNGJÖKULL LANGIJÖKULL

Flosajökull -- --

Hagafellsjökull eystri Hagafellsjökull, Eystri-Hagafellsjökull, 

Hagavatnsjökull syðri

--

Hagafellsjökull vestari Hagafellsjökull, Hagafellsjökull vestri, 

Vestri-Hagafellsjökull, Vestari-Hagafellsjökull

Skjaldbreiðarjökull

Kirkjujökull -- --

Leiðarjökull -- --

Lónsjökull -- --

Norðurjökull Nyrðri-Skriðjökull, Nyrðriskriðjökull --

Suðurjökull1 Fremri-Skriðjökull --

Þrístapajökull1 Hallmundarjökull --

Name of contiguous ice cap:

GEITLANDSJÖKULL -- SUÐURJÖKLAR

Names of internal ice domes:

“BALDJÖKULL” -- --

Historic Ice margin names:

Bláfellsjökull -- --

Geitlandsjökull -- --

Regnbúðarjökull -- --

Skjaldbreiðarjökull -- --

ÞÓRISJÖKULL (fig. 5) THORISDALURJÖKULL SUÐURJÖKLAR

EIRÍKSJÖKULL and its outlet glaciers (fig. 5):

EIRÍKSJÖKULL BALLJÖKULL, 

ARNARVATNSJÖKULL

Brækur eystri Eystri Bækur, Brækur, Brókarjöklar -- 

Brækur vestri Vestri Bækur, Brækur, Brókarjöklar --

Klofajökull Stórijökull --

Þorvaldsjökull -- --

Ögmundarjökull -- --

Name of part of LANGJÖKULL:

Bláfellsjökull -- Bláfellsjökull

-- -- Balldjökull, Balljökull

Okjökull Ok --
18 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Modern name Alternative names/spelling variations Historic names

HRÚTFELLSJÖKULL and its outlet glaciers (fig. 5):

HRÚTFELLSJÖKULL HRÚTAFELLSJÖKULL, REGNBÚÐAJÖKULL, REGNBOGAJÖKULL, 

REGNBÚÐAJÖKLAR

--

Miðjökull Þríjökull --

Norðvesturjökull -- --

Vesturjökull Þríjökull --

Other glaciers (fig. 5):

Skarðsheiðarjökull Hornsárdalsjökull

1Possible surge-type glacier.

Table 5. (Continued) Names of the glaciers of the Langjökull group.

20°30'W 20°

64°30'

64°45'N

0 5 10 KILOMETERS

LANGJÖKULL

Okjökull

ÞÓRISJÖKULL

HRÚTFELLSJÖKULL

Norðvesturjökull

Vesturjökull

Miðjökull

“BALDJÖKULL”

Kirkjujökull

Norðurjökull

Suðurjökull

EIRÍKSJÖKULL

Klofajökull

Ögmundarjökull

Þorvaldsjökull

Brækur

eystri Brækur

vestri

Leiðarjökull

GEITLANDSJÖKULL

Lónsjökull

Hagafellsjökull

vestari

Hagafellsjökull

eystri

Þrístapajökull

Flosajökull

Figure 5. Map of LANGJÖKULL and its outlet glaciers, ÞÓRISJÖKULL, EIRÍKSJÖKULL and its outlet glaciers, Okjökull, and 

HRÚTFELLSJÖKULL and its outlet glaciers.
Introduction 19

Table 6. SNÆFELLSJÖKULL and the names of its outlet glaciers.

[--, not classified]

Modern name Alternative names/

spelling variations Historic names

SNÆFELLSJÖKULL -- SNJÓFELLSJÖKULL, SNJÓFJALLSJÖKULL, 

JÖKULL, VESTURJÖKULL

Blágilsjökull --

Hólatindajökull --

Hyrningsjökull --

Jökulhálsjökull --

Kvíahnúksjökull --

23°48' 23°46' 23°44'

64°47'

64°48'

64°49'N

0 1 KILOMETER

SNÆFELLSJÖKULL

Jökulhálsjökull

Hyrningsjökull

Blágilsjökull

Hólatindajökull

Kvíahnúksjökull

.5

Figure 6. Map of SNÆFELLSJÖKULL and 

its outlet glaciers.
20 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Table 7. Names of the glaciers of Vestfirðir (Vestfjarðajöklar).

[--, not classified]

Modern name Alternative names/

spelling variations Historic names

DRANGAJÖKULL and its outlet glaciers (fig. 7A):

DRANGAJÖKULL -- --

Kaldalónsjökull Lónjökull --

Leirufjarðarjökull -- Leirujökull

Ljótarjökull -- --

Reykjarfjarðarjökull -- --

Þaralátursjökull -- --

Name of internal ice dome:

“JÖKULBUNGA” -- --

Historic ice-margin name:

Lónsjökull Lónjökull --

Other glaciers (fig. 7B):

Lambadalsskarðsfönn -- --

DRANGAJÖKULL

A

66°10'N

22°20'W 22°10’

66°5'

“JÖKULBUNGA”

Kaldalónsjökull

Leirufjarðarjökull

Ljótarjökull

Þaralátursjökull

Reykjarfjarðarjökull

0 2 4 KILOMETERS

Figure 7. Map of Vestfjarðajöklar: 

A, DRANGAJÖKULL and its outlet glaciers.
Introduction 21

23°0'W 22°30' 22°0'

66°0'

66°10'

66°20'N

0 5 10 KILOMETERS

DRANGAJÖKULL

Lambadalsskarðsfönn

B

Figure 7. Map of Vestfjarðajöklar: B, other glaciers.

Names of specific glaciers are in some of the Icelandic sagas (Jónsson, 1948, 

1953; Hreinsson, 1997) and other documents, including Balljökull in Bárðar saga 

Snæfellsáss, Grettis saga, and Ármanns saga; EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL in Njáls 

saga; GEITLANDSJÖKULL in Bárðar saga Snæfellsáss; HÖFÐÁRJÖKULL 

[MÝRDALSJÖKULL]in Lögmannsannáll; Jökull [SNÆFELLSJÖKULL] in Atla 

saga Ótryggssonar; Snjófell [SNÆFELLSJÖKULL] in Bárðar saga Snæfellsáss

and Ármanns saga; SNÆFELLSJÖKULL in Landnámabók, Eiríks saga rauða, 

Bárðar saga Snæfellsáss, and Víglundar saga; Sólheimajökull in Konungsannáll

and Sturlunga: Árna saga byskups; and Suðurjöklar [probably ÞÓRISJÖKULL and 

GEITLANDSJÖKULL] in Landnámabók.

Although the early Icelanders and their descendents gave names to prominent 

geographic features throughout Iceland, it was not until maps began to be published 

(Hermannsson, 1931) that such place-names became known to non-Icelanders. 

It was not until the 16th century (Sigurðsson, 1971) that glacier place-names began 

to appear on maps of Iceland, but many maps of Iceland until the late 16th century 

showed no glaciers. In 1539, Olaus Magnus, on the Iceland part of Carta Marina, 

showed “Iokel” where SNÆFELLSJÖKULL is located. In 1569, Gerhard Mercator 

showed “Snauel Jokel” and Abraham Ortelius, in 1570, showed “Snauel iokel.” 
22 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Table 8. Names of the glaciers of Norðurland (Norðurlandsjöklar).

[--, not classified]

Modern name Alternative names/spelling variations Historic 

names

Tröllaskagi (fig. 8A):

Barkárdalsjökull Barkárjökull --

Bessahlaðajökull -- --

Brimnesdalsjökull -- --

Bröndujökull Brandárjökull --

Bungujökull -- --

Búrfellsjökull -- --

Bægisárjökull -- --

Deildardalsjökull Seljadalsjökull, Hájökull --

Féeggstaðadalsjökull -- --

-- -- Fljótajökull

Fossárjökull Vindheimajökull eystri --

Fremri-Lambárjökull -- --

Gálgagilsjökull -- --

Gíslajökull -- --

Glerárdalsjökull -- --

Gljúfurárjökull -- --

Gloppujökull -- --

Grasárjökull -- --

Grýtudalsjökull eystri Eystri-Grýtudalsjökull --

Grýtudalsjökull vestri Vestri-Grýtudalsjökull --

Grænavatnsjökull Grænavatnsjökull eystri, Grænavatnsjökull vestri --

Hafrárjökull Hafrárdalsjökar --

Hagárdalsjökull -- --

Hamrajökull -- --

Hálsjökull Hamarsjökull --

Heiðinnamannajökull -- --

Heljardalsjökull -- --

Heljarjökull Þverdalsjökull --

Heljarskálarjökull -- --

Hestárjökull -- --

Héðinsdalsjökull Héðinsjökull --

Héðinsskarðajökull Skarðsárjökull --

Hjaltadalsjökull -- --

Hnjótajökull -- --

Hofsárjökull -- --

Hofsdalsjökull -- --

Holárdalsjökull -- --

Holárfjallsjökull nyrðri -- --

Holárfjallsjökull syðri -- --

Hóladalsjökull (cirque glacier) -- --

Hóladalsjökull (mountain glacier) -- --
Introduction 23

Modern name Alternative names/spelling variations Historic 

names

Hrafnabjargajökull -- --

Hraunárdalsjökull nyrðri -- --

Hraunárdalsjökull syðri -- --

Húsárjökull Vindheimajökull vestri --

Hvarfdalsjökull -- --

Hvítalækjarjökull -- --

 (Hvítalækjarjökull nyrðri) -- --

 (Hvítalækjarjökull syðri) -- --

Hörgárdalsjöklar -- --

Hörgárjökull -- --

Illagilsdalsjökull Illagilsjökull --

Kambfellsjökull -- --

Kambsárjökull -- --

Kerlingajökull -- --

Kerlingarjökull Lambárjökull --

Kerlingarárjökull Kerlingsárjökull --

Kirkjufjallsdragsjökull -- --

Kistufjallsjökull -- --

Kistujökull (cirque glacier) -- --

Kistujökull (cirque glacier 

remnants)

-- --

Klaufabrekknajökull -- --

Klaufabrekknajökull eystri -- --

Klaufabrekknajökull vestri -- --

Kóngsstaðajökull -- --

Kvarnárjökull -- --

Lambárdalsjökull (valley 

glacier)

Lambárjökull --

Lambárdalsjökull (mountain 

glacier)

Lambárjökull --

Lambárdalsjökull (cirque glacier) -- --

Lambárjökull (cirque glacier) -- --

Lambárjökull (mountain glacier) -- --

Lambárjökull (cirque glacier) Lambárdalsjökull --

Lambárjökull (mountain glacier) -- --

Lambárjökull (mountain glacier) -- --

-- Langanessjökull

Melrakkadalsjökull -- --

Móafellsjökull Mjóafellsjökull --

Myrkárjökull -- --

Nautárdalsjökull -- --

Nautárjökull -- --

Ólafarhnjúkajöklar -- --

Table 8. (Continued) Names of the glaciers of Norðurland (Norðurlandsjöklar).
24 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Modern name Alternative names/spelling variations Historic 

names

Reykjadalsjökull -- --

Sandárdalsjökull (mountain 

glacier remnants)

-- --

Skallárdalsjökull Skallárjökull --

Skíðadalsjökull -- --

 (Skíðadalsjökull syðri) -- --

 (Skíðadalsjökull nyrðri) -- --

Skíðadalsjökull eystri -- --

Skíðadalsjökull vestri -- --

Skriðudalsjökull -- --

Sveipsjökull Sveigsjökull --

Syðri-Króksárjökull -- --

Sælujökull nyrðri -- --

Sælujökull syðri -- --

Teigardalsjökull Teigadalsjökull --

Tjarnhólajökull -- --

Trölladalsjökull -- --

Tröllajökull -- --

Tungnahryggsjökull Kolkujökull, Túnahryggsjökull --

Tungudalsjökull Ytri-Tungudalsjökull, Dýjajökull, Dýjafjallshnjúksjökull, 

Dyngjuhnjúksjökull

--

Tvílækjajökull -- --

Unadalsjökull -- --

Vaskárdalsjökull -- --

Vatnsdalsjökull -- --

Vatnsdalsjökull [1, 2, 3] -- --

Vesturárdalsjökull Staðargangnajökull eystri, Staðargangnajökull vestri, 

Vesturárjökull

--

Vindheimajökull -- --

Vífilsjökull -- --

Vörðufellsjökull -- --

Þverárjökull (mountain glaciers) Þverárdalsjökull, Þverárjökull eystri, Þverárjökull vestri --

Þverárjökull (mountain glacier) -- --

Þverárjökull (cirque glaciers) -- --

Þverárjökull (mountain glacier) -- --

Glaciers east of Eyjafjörður (fig. 8B):

Grímslandsjökull -- --

Kambsjökull -- --

Kotajökull -- --

Table 8. (Continued) Names of the glaciers of Norðurland (Norðurlandsjöklar).

Figure 8. (At right) Map of Norðurlandsjöklar: 

A, named glaciers in Tröllaskagi.
Introduction 25

Brimnesdalsjökull

Lambárdalsjökull

Lambárdalsjökull Kerlingarjökull Glerárdalsjökull

Reykjadalsjökull

Þverárjökull

Þverárjökull

Þverárjökull Klaufabrekknajökull

Unadalsjökull

Hálsjökull

Hofsárjökull

Lambárjökull

Fremri-Lambárjökull

Hestárjökull Trölladalsjökull

Nautárjökull

Illagilsdalsjökull

Tungudalsjökull

Holárdalsjökull

Skriðudalsjökull

Lambárdalsjökull

65°50'

66°N

65°40'

65°30'

Klaufabrekknajökull vestri

Klaufabrekknajökull eystri

Kerlingajökull

Móafellsjökull

Hvarfdalsjökull

Skallárdalsjökull

Hnjótajökull

Deildardalsjökull

Heljarjökull

Hofsdalsjökull

Búrfellsjökull

Teigardalsjökull

Hraunárdalsjökull nyrðri

Hraunárdalsjökull syðri

Vaskárdalsjökull Kambfellsjökull

Hagárdalsjökull

Melrakkadalsjökull Bröndujökull

Nautárdalsjökull

Hóladalsjökull

Kirkjufjallsdragsjökull

Vatnsdalsjökull Bessahlaðajökull

Hrafnabjargajökull

Gálgagilsjökull

Lambárjökull

Grasárjökull

Héðinsskarðajökull

Tungnahryggsjökull

Barkárdalsjökull

Gíslajökull

Lambárjökull

Hörgárdalsjökull

Hörgárjökull

Hjaltadalsjökull

Kerlingarárjökull

Grænavatnsjökull

Myrkárjökull

Ólafarhnjúksjöklar

Lambárjökull

Tröllajökull

Sveipsjökull

Hvítalækjarjökull nyrðri

Hvítalækjarjökull syðri

Bungujökull

Fossárjökull

Húsárjökull

Kambsárjökull

Vindheimajökull

Bægisárjökull

Kistufjallsjökull

Heljarskálarjökull

Hóladalsjökull

Lambárjökull

Skíðadalsjökull eystri

Skíðadalsjökull vestri

Kistujökull Kvarnárjökull

Gljúfurárjökull

Hafrárjökull

Hamrajökull

Gloppujökull

Kóngsstaðajökull

Vatnsdalsjökull

1 2 3

Vesturárdalsjökull

19°0'W 18°30'

Heljardalsjökull

Vífilsjökull

0 5 10 KILOMETERS

Gr

Gr

ýtudalsjökull eystri

ýtudalsjökull vestri

Þverárjökull

Vörðufellsjökull

Féeggstaðadalsjökull

Skíðadalsjökull

Tvílækjajökull

Tjarnhólajökull

Héðinsdalsjökull

Sælujökull syðri Sælujökull nyrðri

Holárfjallsjökull nyrðri

Holárfjallsjökull syðri

Syðri-Króksárjökull

A

Heiðinnamannajökull

Eyjafjörður
26 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Grímslandsjökull

0 5 10 KILOMETERS

Kambsjökull

Kotajökull

18°15'W 18° 17°45'

66°10'N

66°

B

Eyjafjörður

Figure 8. Map of Norðurlandsjöklar: B, named glaciers east of Eyjafjörður.

Hence, SNÆFELLSJÖKULL is the first Icelandic glacier name to be shown on 

maps of Iceland. In 1590, Bishop Guðbrandur Þorláksson (Hermannsson, 1926) 

showed 8 glaciers on the Islandia part of Theatrum orbis terrarum: Sneuels Iokul, 

Bald Iokul, Getlands Iokul, Arnafelds Iokul, Sand Iokul, Eyafjalla Iokul, Mydals 

Iokul, and Solheima Iokul. Thorarinsson (1960) noted that an important sketch 

map of Icelandic glaciers is one included in Árni Magnússon’s Chorographica 

Islandica [1702–1714 (1955)], a 1704–05 map of the Sólheimajökull outlet glacier, 

extending from MÝRDALSJÖKULL; EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL is shown to the 

left of MÝRDALSJÖKULL. In Magnússon’s (1702–1710 [1955]) Chorographica 

Islandica, he includes a register with the place-names of 21 glaciers, a statement 

that “Gláma er jökull” [“Gláma is a glacier”] (Magnússon, 1955, p. 77) and one 

jökulhlaup deposit on Mýrdalssandur (“Lambajökull”), with the recognition 

that “Eru melakollar, en ekki jökull” [“Are gravel mounds, but not a glacier”] 

(Magnússon, 1955, p. 27). Neither VATNAJÖKULL nor KLOFAJÖKULL is 

mentioned, although one outlet glacier (Skeiðarárjökull) and one internal ice 

cap (ÖRÆFAJÖKULL) are noted (Árni Magnússon, 1702–1710 [1955]). The 

Jarðabók of Árni Magnússon and Páll Jónsson Vídalín (1702–1712) also provides 

an early written source of place-names of Iceland’s glaciers.
Introduction 27

19°W 18°30' 18° 17°30'

0 10 20 KILOMETERS

APPROXIMATE SCALE

66°N

66°40'

19°30'W

C

Figure 8. Map of Norðurlandsjöklar: C, Landsat 2 MSS image of Tröllaskagi and environs on 27 August 1980. Landsat 2 MSS false-color 

composite image 22044-12070 from the Canada Centre for Remote Sensing, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
28 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Table 9. Names of the glaciers of Austfirðir (Austfjarðajöklar).

[--, not classified]

Modern name Alternative names/

spelling variations Historic names

ÞRÁNDARJÖKULL (fig. 9A):

ÞRÁNDARJÖKULL Thrándarjökull MIÐLANDSJÖKULL, SVIÐINHORNAJÖKULL

HOFSJÖKULL (fig. 9B):

HOFSJÖKULL -- HOFSJÖKULL eystri, HOFSJÖKULL í Lóni, 

HOFSJÖKULL í austri

Morsárjökull (retreated into 

HOFSJÖKULL)

-- --

Other glaciers (fig. 9C):

Hjálpleysujökull -- --

Hrútafellsjökull -- --

Jökulbotnajökull innri -- --

Jökulbotnajökull ytri -- --

Jökuldalsfönn -- --

Kistufellsjökull -- --

Móskjónujökull -- --

Seldalsjökull -- --

Svínadalsjökull -- --

A review of maps reproduced in the superb book by Sigurðsson (1978) shows 

the addition of glacier place-names on later maps by Þórður Þorláksson (1668) 

(Hermannsson, 1926) and T.H.H. Knopf (1731–1734). Þórður Þorkelsson Vídalín 

(1754) was the first Icelander to write specifically about Iceland’s glaciers and 

referenced two of them (Skeiðarárjökull, Breiðamerkurjökull), according to 

Sigurður Þórarinsson’s introduction to the 1965 reproduction (Jöklarit) of and by 

reference to Þórður Þorkelsson Vídalín’s (1754) work. By 1766, Eggert Ólafsson 

(1772) (Hermannsson, 1925) had written his two-volume Reise (Travels in 

Iceland 1752–1757; the English edition, published in 1975 (Ólafsson and Pálsson, 

1975), included excerpts from the two volumes, a descriptive geographical study 

of Iceland. His work included 32 place-names of glaciers of Iceland, including 

11 of the 13 largest ice caps in Iceland and 3 mountain glaciers in Tröllaskagi 

(Deildardalsjökull, Túnahryggsjökull, and Unadalsjökull). The 1772 publication 

included a map (Nyt Carte over Island) compiled in 1771 by Jón Eiríksson and 

Gerhard Schöning with 25 glacier place-names (including Glaama-Iökull, which is 

missing from the 1780 edition). In 1780, Jón Eiríksson and Ólafur Olavius published 

their edition of Nyt Carte over Island with 24 glacier place-names (Balld=Iökull, 

Blaafells=Iökull, Breidamerkur=Iökull, Dranga Iökull, Eireks=Iökull, Eyafialla 

Iökull, Geitlands Iökull, Heinabergs Iökull, Hofs=Iökull, Klofa Iökull, Knappafells 

Iökull, Kötlugiaa Iökull, Lange=Iökull, Myrdals Iökull, Sandfells Iökull, Sidu Iökull, 

Skaptaar Iökull, Skeidar=aar Iökull, Snæfells Iökull, Solheima Iökull, Tinfialla 

Iökull, Torfa Iökull, Unudals Iökull, and Øræfa Iökull) (Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 160).
Introduction 29

14°56'W 14°54' 14°52'

64°42'N

A

0 .5 1 KILOMETER

ÞRÁNDARJÖKULL

15°5'W

64°38'N

64°36'

HOFSJÖKULL

B

15°

0 .5 1 KILOMETER

Figure 9. Maps of Austfjarðajöklar: A, ÞRÁNDARJÖKULL; and 

B, HOFSJÖKULL.
30 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

65°30'N

65°

14°30'W 14° 13°30'

15°W

0 10 20 KILOMETERS

ÞRÁNDARJÖKULL

(fig. 9A)

HOFSJÖKULL

(fig. 9B)

C

Jökuldalsfönn

Kistufellsjökull

Hjálpleysujökull

Jökulbotnajökull innri

Jökulbotnajökull ytri

Hrútafellsjökull

Móskjónujökull

Svínadalsjökull

Seldalsjökull

Figure 9. Map of Austfjarðajöklar: 

C, other glaciers.

The first truly scientific treatise on Iceland’s glaciers, however, was the 

work by Sveinn Pálsson (1795 [2004]) in the last decade of the 18th century. 

Pálsson, a natural historian, glaciologist, meteorologist, and physician, wrote a 

remarkable description of Iceland’s glaciers and associated volcanic phenomena, 

including the phenomenon of jökulhlaups, or “glacier outburst floods,” that he 

completed under a grant from the Natural History Society of Denmark in February 

1795. His glacier treatise included planimetric maps of Iceland’s four largest ice 

caps: LANGJÖKULL (1792), KLOFAJÖKULL or VATNAJÖKULL (1794), 

ARNARFELLSJÖKULL or HOFSJÖKULL (1794), and EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL

[includes MÝRDALSJÖKULL] (1795), and his text provided a wealth of descriptive information about these glaciers. Pálsson provided names of many outlet 

glaciers of VATNAJÖKULL, EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL, MÝRDALSJÖKULL, 

and LANGJÖKULL; however, no outlet glaciers were shown for HOFSJÖKULL, 
Introduction 31

Table 10. Names of the jökulhlaup deposits.

[Refer to figure 10. Abbreviations for map series are explained in text. Jökulhlaup deposits—Mostly unsorted boulders, cobbles, gravel, and finer grained 

glacio-fluvial sediments deposited on a sandur during a glacier-outburst flood (jökulhlaup); original deposit included an accumulation of rafted blocks of glacier 

ice. Deposits on Mýrdalssandur and the eastern part of Skeiðarársandur (Öræfi) are the result of subglacier eruptions of Katla and Öræfajökull, respectively 

(fig. 10)]

Name

Location

Published source and (or) map

North latitude West longitude

Suðurland

MÝRDALSJÖKULL (Kötluhlaup)

“Austurjökull” 63o25′ 18o50′ Thoroddsen (1914b, v. 3, p. 102); Jónsson (1983, p. 62; map)

“Höfðabrekkujökull” 63o25′ 18o53′ Thoroddsen (1911, p. 7; 1914b, v. 3, p. 102); ÁFÍ 1935 (p. 23); AB 69; 

C761, 1911IV; Jónsson (1983, p. 62; map) 

“Jökull” 63o32′ 18o43′ Pálsson [1795, §16 (2004, p. 83; see also Endnote No. 17, p. 152 

and Endnote No. 325, p. 175—176.)] [deposits from 1755 jökulhlaup]

“Lambajökull” 63o26′ 18o38′ Magnússon [1702—1714 (1955, p. 27)]; Steingrímsson [1788 (1907—1915, 

p. 191)]; Benediktsson [1840 (1997, p. 221)]; Sigurðarson [1840 (1997, p. 

237)]; Jónsson (1983, p. 62; map); AB 69; C762 (5817III); C761 (1911IV)

“Lambeyjarjökull” 63o26′ 18o38′ Pálsson [1826 (1907—1915, p. 270, 277)]; probably the same as 

“Lambajökull”

“Lágjökull” 63o26′ 18o41′ Pálsson [1826 (1907—1915, p. 277)]

ÖRÆFAJÖKULL (Jökulhlaup)

“Forarjökull” 63o55′ 16o47′ Thorarinsson (1958, p. 33); ÁFÍ 1993 (p. 87)

“Grasjökull/Grasjöklar” 63o55′ 16o47′ Thoroddsen (1906, p. 193; 1911, p. 60; 1914, v. 3, p. 244), Thorarinsson 

(1958, p. 33). ÁFÍ 1937 (p. 24), ÁFÍ 1979 (p. 90), ÁFÍ 1993 (p. 87)

“Grjótjökull” 63o58′ 16o49′ Thorarinsson [1958, p. 30; Grjót (jökulhlaup sediments)]; Grjótjökull 

in ÁFÍ 1993 (p. 85)

“Jökull/Jöklar” 63o56′ 16o46′ Hannesson (1958, p. 304), “Jökull”; ÁFÍ 1937 (p. 18), “Jöklar”

“Langafellsjökull” 63o58′ 16o51′ Thorarinsson (1958, p. 34; ÁFÍ 1993, p. 85)

“Miðjökull” 63o55′ 16o47′ Thorarinsson (1958, p. 33), ÁFÍ 1937 (p. 24), ÁFÍ 1993 (p. 87)

“Réttarfellsjökull” 63o58′ 16o50′ Jóhann Þorsteinsson (oral commun., 2006; based on handwritten record by 

his father, Þorsteinn Jóhannsson)

“Svartijökull” 63o56′ 16o46′ Thoroddsen (1906, p. 193; 1911, p. 60; 1914b, v. 3, p. 244); AB 87; AK9 

(1996); ÁFÍ 1937 (p. 24), ÁFÍ 1979 (p. 93), ÁFÍ 1993 (p. 87); Thorarinsson 

(1958, p. 23, 33)
32 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

“Austurjökull”

“Lágjökull” “Lambajökull”

(“Lambeyjarjökull”)

“ J ö k u l l ”

“Höfðabrekkujökull”

MÝRDALSJÖKULL

Kötlujökull

63°30'

63°40'N

19°0'W 18°40' 18°20

0 5 10 KILOMETERS

Mýrdalssandur

Atlantic Ocean

A

Svínafellsjökull

ÖRÆFAJÖKULL

“Grjótjökull”

“Langafellsjökull”

“Réttarfellsjökull”

“Forarjökull”

“Miðjökull”

“Grasjökull”

“Svartijökull”

(“Jökull”)

Skaftafellsjökull

B

Skeiðarársandur

Atlantic

Ocean

Morsárjökull

Virkisjökull

Falljökull

17°W 16°30'

64°N

0 5 10 KILOMETERS

VATNAJÖKULL

Figure 10. Maps of jökulhlaup deposits: 

A, jökulhlaup deposits on Mýrdalssandur; and 

B, jökulhlaup deposits in the Öræfi district.
Introduction 33

the least accurate of his four maps. In addition to providing the first cartographic 

information about Iceland’s largest ice cap, VATNAJÖKULL, he also showed 

a separate ice cap to the east, ÞRÁNDARJÖKULL. Although a rich source of 

information about place-names of Iceland’s glaciers, Pálsson’s four maps only have 

qualitative cartographic value. Unfortunately, Pálsson’s (1795) treatise on Iceland’s 

glaciers was not published in his time. Helland (1882, 1884) published two parts of 

three in the original Danish. Eyþórsson and others (1945) published the complete 

manuscript, diaries, and maps in Icelandic. In 2004, The Icelandic Literary Society 

published an English version that was edited, extensively annotated, and illustrated 

by Williams and Sigurðsson (Pálsson, 2004).

The next major cartographic contribution to mapping Iceland’s glaciers was by 

the Icelandic cartographer Björn Gunnlaugsson. His 1:480,000-scale (1848) (four 

map sheets compiled in 1844; Sigurðsson, 1978, p. 256) and 1:960,000-scale (1849) 

maps of Iceland added many glacier place-names and, for the first time, produced a 

relatively accurate map of Iceland, especially of the interior of the country. Haraldur 

Sigurðsson (1978, p. 270) said “Björn Gunnlaugsson’s survey and map are a great 

scientific achievement, unique of its kind....” Paijkull’s 1867 geological map of 

Iceland is based primarily on the 1848 Gunnlaugsson map.

The next major addition of glacier place-names came from the work of 

the Icelandic geologist Þorvaldur Thoroddsen. In 1892, he published Islands 

Jøkler i Fortid og Nutid (Thoroddsen, 1892), the first attempt at an inventory of 

Iceland’s glaciers. Thoroddsen’s Geological Map of Iceland (Thoroddsen, 1901) 

and his Die Gletscher Islands, Island-Grundriss der Geographie und Geologie 

(Thoroddsen, 1906) provided additional information about Iceland’s glaciers, but 

it was his Lýsing Íslands (v. 2, vii, Jöklar) (Thoroddsen, 1911) and his four-volume 

Ferðabók, Skýrslur um rannsóknir á Íslandi 1882–1898, which he published in 

1913 (Thoroddsen, 1913, v. 1), 1914 (Thoroddsen, 1914a, b, v. 2 and v. 3), and 

1915 (Thoroddsen, 1915, v. 4 ), that provided the most comprehensive inventory of 

Iceland’s glaciers and glacier place-names in the early 20th century.

In 1902, the Generalstaben (Danish General Staff) [later called the Geodætisk 

Institut (Danish Geodetic Institute)] began a nearly four-decade effort (1902–1939) 

to map Iceland, using modern mapping techniques, including geodetic ground 

control and plane-table mapping (Böðvarsson, 1996). The goal was to produce 87 

1:100,000-scale maps (atlasblöð; now called atlaskort) of the entire country and to 

produce 1:50,000-scale maps (fjórðungsblöð) of the inhabited regions. The work 

began in Reykjavík in 1902 and then shifted to the southeast coast in 1903. Working 

clockwise around the coastal regions of Iceland, the mapping connected with the 

1903 map sheet on the east coast in 1936 (see Viðauki III, Böðvarsson, 1996, 

p. 279–280).

The central parts of Iceland were mapped during the 1930s, using oblique aerial 

photography (Norlund, 1938, 1944), ending in 1939 (see Viðauki IV, Böðvarsson, 

1996, p. 281–293). In early April 1940, Nazi Germany overran and conquered 

neutral Denmark, thereby terminating Danish mapping activities in Iceland. The 

1:100,000-scale maps (atlasblöð) formed the basis for the nine 1:250,000-scale maps 

(aðalkort yfir Ísland, and new series) of Iceland, as well as the geodetic base for the 

Series C762 (1:50,000 scale) and Series 1501 [1:250,000 scale; Ground Operations 

(Graphic)] maps of Iceland prepared by the U.S. Army Map Service (AMS) and later 

by the U.S. Defense Mapping Agency (DMA). The Series C762 maps, however, are 

not a reliable source for geographic place-names in Iceland, including its glaciers. 

They are derivative maps from the Danish atlasblöð series, have many inaccurate 

place-names, including the replacement of ð (eth) by dh and þ (thorn) by th. An 

earlier version of the 1:250,000-scale Series 1501 was AMS Series C561, published 

by the U.S. Army Map Service in July 1943.
34 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Most important from a place-name perspective, the atlasblöð (and the 

fjórðungsblöð) became the formal published record of geographic place-names 

in Iceland. On the reverse side of the nine aðalkort yfir Ísland maps are listed 

alphabetically the place-names printed on the map. In Böðvarsson’s (1996) excellent 

book on the history of modern mapping of Iceland, between 1902 (Danish General 

Staff) and the establishment of Landmælingar Íslands in 1956, there is scant 

discussion of geographic place-names, other than the reference on page 71 to the 

field record of place-names by number placement on the map manuscript keyed 

to actual name in the margin and published map on page 72 (Böðvarsson, 1996). 

Examples of perspective field sketches are shown on page 72, which includes 

EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL and MÝRDALSJÖKULL in the background.

The 1:250,000-scale (aðalkort yfir Ísland and the new ferðakort series), 

1:100,000-scale (atlasblöð), and 1;50,000-scale (fjórðungsblöð) maps are the 

official published sources of glacier place-names of Iceland’s glaciers, and, as will 

be discussed later, carry the imprimatur of a Government of Iceland publication but 

without formal certification by an “Icelandic Board on Geographic Names.”

In 1928, Ferðafélag Íslands published the first volume in a continuing series of 

annual travel guides [Árbók Ferðafélags Íslands (ÁFÍ)] that describes, with maps, 

various regions in Iceland. Starting with the very first travel guides, Þjórsárdalur, 

in which EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL and Tindafjallajökull (Tindfjallajökull) are 

mentioned on page 9, the annual travel guides are a rich source of geographic 

place-names of Iceland’s glaciers and natural and cultural history of each region, 

and the maps in the guidebooks achieve a high cartographic standard in the more 

recent volumes. In 1942, the volume Kerlingarfjöll included a list of place-names; 

in 1945, the volume Hekla included a brief list of place-names; in 1962, the volume 

Arnarvatnsheiði og Tvídægra initiated a comprehensive list of place-names at 

the end of the book, a tradition that continues. Oftentimes, the included maps 

provide the primary source for many glacier names. For example, the 1942 guide 

book Kerlingarfjöll contains perspective sketches, captioned photographs, and a 

sketch map (ff p. 104) of Kerlingarfjöll that provide the names of 12 glaciers and 

2 snow patches. On the 1:100,000-scale (atlasblöð) map of Kerlingarfjöll, only 

three glacier place-names in Kerlingarfjöll are shown (Eystri-Loðmundarjökull, 

Vestri-Loðmundarjökull, and Jökulkinn); none are shown on the 1:250,000-scale 

(aðalkort) maps. No glacier place-names in Kerlingarfjöll are shown on the 

1:50,000-scale Series C762 map of Iceland; on the 1:50,000-scale Series C761 map 

of Kerlingarfjöll, two glacier place-names are shown: Eystri-Loðmundarjökull and 

Vestri-Loðmundarjökull. Jökulkinn is shown but only as a geographic feature, not 

as a glacier place-name. Loðmundarjökull eystri and Loðmundarjökull vestri are 

the preferred spellings of the place-names of the two glaciers.

In the 1930s, the Icelandic meteorologist and glaciologist Jón Eyþórsson began 

the first systematic studies of fluctuations of Iceland’s glaciers (Eyþórsson, 1931, 

1935); his work also created published records of glacier place-names in journal 

articles. Eyþórsson’s glaciological studies and published work added a significant 

number of new glacier names. With the founding of Jöklarannsóknafélag Íslands 

(Iceland Glaciological Society) in November 1951 and the publication of the 

first volume of their scientific journal Jökull4 in 1951, an annual compilation, in 

tabular format, of the fluctuation of selected glaciers in Iceland was initiated that 

also formalized glacier place-names, whether or not they had appeared on official 

4

Jökull means glacier in Icelandic; the journal was renamed the Iceland Journal of Earth Sciences in 1995 

and The Icelandic Journal of Earth Sciences in 1999 but retained Jökull as the journal’s name in Icelandic. 

In 1978, Jarðfræðafélag Íslands (Geoscience Society of Iceland) became a co-publisher of Jökull.
Introduction 35

maps in their correct location and with proper spelling. Eyþórsson (1963a) also 

published tables of decadal-scale fluctuations. In 1967, Sigurjón Rist, a hydrologist 

and glaciologist, continued the work (Jón Eyþórsson died in 1968); in 1988, Oddur 

Sigurðsson, a geologist and glaciologist, assumed responsibility (Sigurjón Rist died 

in 1994) for the compilation and annual publication of glacier fluctuation. The list of 

glacier place-names in the “Fluctuations of Glaciers” published annually in Jökull is 

an authoritative source (Sigurðsson, 1998).

Also in the 1930s, Sigurður Þórarinsson, the Icelandic geomorphologist, volcanologist, tephrochronologist, and glaciologist, working with the Swedish glaciologist H.W. Ahlmann (1937), began a lifelong scientific interest in Iceland’s glaciers. 

Using the 1:50,000-scale (fjórðungsblöð) and 1:100,000-scale (atlasblöð) maps, 

Thorarinsson (1943) completed an inventory and area calculation of approximately 

50 of Iceland’s glaciers, comparing areas of some glaciers to areal measurements 

made by Thoroddsen (1892). Of the 50 or so glaciers listed, 19 are shown for the 

first time in Tröllaskagi, because, until 1931, when the Danish Geodetic Institute 

completed their mapping, this region had been poorly mapped, although three 

glacier place-names in Tröllaskagi were mentioned by Ólafsson (1772) in his Reise. 

As of 2007 (this compilation), there are 111 named glaciers in Tröllaskagi, including 

at least 3 surge-type glaciers.

In 1985, Sigurjón Rist (1985) completed the most comprehensive preliminary 

inventory of glaciers and main snow patches in Iceland to that time (see appendix). 

He divided Iceland into eight regional groups (Vesturlandsjöklar, Vestfjarðajöklar, 

Norðurlandsjöklar, Miðhálendisjöklar, Suðurlandsjöklar, Vatnajökull, 

Suðausturlandsjökull, and Austfjarðajöklar), further classifying the glaciers and 

snow patches in each group as coastal or inland. His classification was based on 

three criteria: (1) geography, (2) climate, and (3) “ease of access for simultaneous 

comparison and investigation” (see appendix). Sigurjón Rist (1985) proposed 

many new glacier names and endeavored to distinguish between glaciers and 

snow patches; many new names ended in “fönn” or were considered to be snow 

patches (for example, Trölladyngjufönn*). A closer analysis of several of the snow 

patches (persistent area of perennial snow and firn) named by Rist (1985) found 

that some could be reclassified as glaciers (for example, Lambadalsskarðsfönn in 

Vestfjarðajöklar and Jökuldalsfönn in Austfjarðajöklar).

Sigurjón Rist (1985) also compiled a map of “Glaciers and the Main Snow 

Patches in Iceland” that accompanied his list of glacier place-names, geographic 

location of unnamed glaciers, and names of snow patches (appendix). He listed 76 

glacier place-names (assuming names for VATNAJÖKULL, ÖRÆFAJÖKULL, 

and their outlet glaciers that appeared on contemporary maps, in addition to the 13 

specifically listed by him in 1985), approximately 150 unnamed glaciers, and 14 

named snow patches. Sigurðsson and Williams (in press), in their comprehensive 

discussion of Iceland’s glaciers in the Glaciers of Iceland volume and accompanying 

1:500,000-scale map, used Sigurjón Rist’s preliminary inventory as the departure 

point for their work. For the Glaciers of Iceland volume (Sigurðsson and Williams, 

in press), and for this compilation, we revised Sigurjón Rist’s eight regional 

groups (Vesturlandsjöklar, Vestfjarðajöklar, Norðurlandsjöklar, Miðhálendisjöklar, 

Suðurlandsjöklar, Vatnajökull, Suðausturlandsjöklar, and Austfjarðajöklar) into eight 

Regional Glacier Groups: Vatnajökull Group, Mýrdalsjökull Group, Hofsjökull 

Group, Langjökull Group, Snæfellsjökull, Vestfjarðajöklar, Norðurlandsjöklar, and 

Austfjarðajöklar (fig. 1). In our work on both of these publications, we owe a debt of 

gratitude to our late friend and colleague, Sigurjón, who, before he was incapacitated 

by a stroke, had laid the solid scientific foundation for a comprehensive inventory of 

Iceland’s glaciers.

Informal glacier place-names of outlet glaciers have been published in recent 

years, occasionally in scientific journal articles (for example, Sigurðsson and 

Williams, 1991), but mostly resulting from radio-echosounding surveys of Iceland’s 

ice caps led by Helgi Björnsson, an Icelandic geophysicist/glaciologist. For example, 
36 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

new information about the subglacier and surface topography of ice caps has 

enabled Björnsson (1988) to subdivide the HOFSJÖKULL ice cap into 21 (23 if 

branches are included) ice-flow basins for each outlet glacier on the basis of surface 

topography. Previously unnamed outlet glaciers were named by Helgi Björnsson 

for the glacier river that flows from the ice margin or a prominent geographic 

feature. HOFSJÖKULL (fig. 4A) is an excellent example of the problem (lack of 

consistency) of glacier place-names on official maps of Iceland. The 1:100,000-scale 

(atlasblöð) maps show names of two outlet glaciers; the 1:50,000-scale (Series 

C762) maps show no outlet glacier names; the new, incomplete 1:50,000-scale 

(Series C761) maps show 10; the new 1:500,000-scale Geologic Map of Iceland 

(Jóhannesson and Sæmundsson, 1989) shows 6; Björnsson’s (1988) base maps show 

7, and his ice-flow-basins map shows 21 (23). On some maps, the northwestern 

outlet glacier is called Lambahraunsjökull; on other maps it is called Sátujökull

(preferred name). Nauthagajökull (preferred name) is called Ólafsfellsjökull on 

some maps. Spelling variations also occur. On AK5 (1988 and 1996) (see the 

following User’s Guide for a key to map abbreviations), it is Kvíslajökull (preferred 

name); on AK5 (1967 and 1973) it is Kvíslarjökull. On AK5 (1988 and 1996) 

and C761 (1914–I) it is Klakkajökull; on AK5 (1978) and on Map 19, Glacier 22 

(Björnsson, 1988), it is Klakksjökull (preferred name). One of the new Series C761 

maps (1914–III) incorrectly shows ARNARFELLSJÖKULL, an historic name for 

the entire ice cap, on the southern part of HOFSJÖKULL.

The responsibility for the compilation and publication of official maps of 

Iceland, until the end of 2006, lay with Landmælingar Íslands (National Land 

Survey of Iceland), an agency of the Government of Iceland within the Ministry 

of the Environment. Geographic place-names are an important aspect of any 

published map, yet there is no formal institution in Iceland that has the authorized 

national responsibility to certify the accuracy of spelling, geographic location, 

and provenance of place-names on maps of Iceland, such as exists in other countries [for example, United States Board on Geographic Names (http://geonames.usgs.

gov), Canadian Permanent Committee on Geographic Names (includes Canadian 

Geographical Names Data Base) (http://geonames.nrcan.gc.ca)]. There are two 

institutions in Iceland, however, that deal with place-names, Örnefnastofnun 

[The Place-Names Institute] and Örnefnanefnd [Committee of Place-Names]. 

Örnefnanefnd has three individuals on the council. Örnefnastofnun Þjóðminjasafns, 

founded by Þórhallur Vilmundarson in 1970, was renamed Örnefnastofnun Íslands 

in 1998 through legislation passed by the Icelandic Parliament. Örnefnastofnun was 

incorporated into Stofnun Árna Magnússonar í íslenskum fræðum in 2006 and is 

headed by Svavar Sigmundsson. Örnefnastofnun carries out scholarly research on 

the historic origin and meaning of Icelandic place-names. In 1980, it published the 

first volume of Grímnir (Rit um nafnfræði), a scholarly publication dedicated to 

producing a permanent published record of the toponymy of Iceland; three volumes 

of Grímnir have been published to date.

The publication of this Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and 

Modern provides comprehensive documentation on historic and modern placenames of all of Iceland’s glaciers. As new maps of Iceland’s glaciers are prepared, 

we expect that this compilation will become the source for the uniform spelling and 

correct geographic location of each glacier place-name. As with other nations that 

have national boards and geographic names, there is a compelling need to have an 

authoritative board on geographic names to certify the accuracy of current placenames and to approve newly proposed names, especially in a nation with such a rich 

heritage of geographic place-names, a nation whose place-names have continued to 

increase in number for more than 1,100 years, many of which have extraordinary 

historic and literary significance.
User’s Guide 37

User’s Guide

The following section of Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic 

and Modern lists the place-names of Iceland’s glaciers alphabetically. For each 

glacier place-name, the published source for the name is cited. Maps and oblique 

aerial photographs and (or) satellite images of each named glacier provide additional 

documentation. Photographs taken by Oddur Sigurðsson, National Energy Authority 

of Iceland (Hydrological Service) are indicated by O.S., NEA. Photographs taken by 

Richard S. Williams, Jr., U.S. Geological Survey (Woods Hole Science Center) are 

indicated by R.S.W., USGS.

In alphabetizing Icelandic letters, vowels with a diacritic follow vowels without 

one (for example; a, á, i, í ), and the last three letters of the Icelandic alphabet 

are þ, æ, and ö. Preferred place-names of ice caps, including two contiguous 

ice caps, ÖRÆFAJÖKULL and GEITLANDSJÖKULL, in present-day use 

and shown on published map series and names used by Jón Eyþórsson, Sigurjón 

Rist, and Oddur Sigurðsson in Jökull in tables of glacier fluctuations, are given 

in bold upper-case letters (DRANGAJÖKULL). Names of internal ice domes 

(“JÖKULBUNGA”) are shown with quotation marks in upper-case letters. Preferred 

usage of place-names of outlet glaciers and other glaciers is in bold lower-case 

letters (Skaftafellsjökull). Historic names of ice caps are shown in upper-case 

letters (ARNARFELLSJÖKULL); historic names of outlet glaciers and other 

glaciers are shown in lower-case letters (Bláfellsjökull). Alternative names shown 

on published map series, provisional names, and informal names (glacier names 

that have not appeared on official Landmælingar Íslands maps and map series and 

have not been published in Jökull in Fluctuations of Glaciers) are shown in italicized 

lower-case letters (Jökulsárgilsjökull). Names of surge-type glaciers are underlined 

(Kaldalónsjökull). Jökulhlaup deposits [table 10 and map (fig. 10)] are shown with 

quotation marks in lower-case letters (“Lambajökull”). Snow patches (table 11) are 

shown in lower-case letters, followed by an asterisk (Háafellsjökull*).

Key to typographical convention used in the text to differentiate glacier place-names

Ice caps and contiguous ice caps ÖRÆFAJÖKULL bold, upper case

Historic names of ice caps ARNARFELLSJÖKULL upper case

Internal ice domes “JÖKULBUNGA” upper case, quotation marks

Outlet glaciers/other glaciers Skaftafellsjökull bold, lower case

Historic names of outlet glaciers/ 

other glaciers and ice-margins Bláfellsjökull lower case

Alternative, provisional, and 

informal names Jökulsárgilsjökull italic, lower case

Surge-type glaciers Kaldalónsjökull bold, underlined

Jökulhlaup deposits “Lambajökull” lower case, quotation marks

Snow patches Háafellsjökull* lower case, asterisk
38 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Additional information provided includes the Regional Glacier Group in 

which the glacier is located, latitude and longitude of the approximate glacier 

center (for ice caps, two sets of bounding coordinates are given), and descriptive 

summary paragraph. The summary paragraph includes glacier type, Regional 

Glacier Group map reference (Vatnajökull Group, Mýrdalsjökull Group, Hofsjökull 

Group, Langjökull Group, Snæfellsjökull, Vestfjarðajöklar, Norðurlandsjöklar, and 

Austfjarðajöklar), special characteristics of the glacier (for example, surge-type), 

alternative names, and citations to the published source of the name (historic and 

modern maps and publications). Table 1, modified from table 3 in Pálsson (2004, 

p. xxxi), provides a guide to English and Icelandic terms used in the classification of glaciers. The most common types of glaciers in Iceland are ice caps, outlet 

glaciers, and cirque glaciers. Citations to authors of books, journal articles, and 

maps are as complete as possible, although single-page citations are often given 

where the name is cited multiple times in a volume, common in the ÁFÍ series. 

For a map series, generally only one edition is cited if all subsequent editions 

carry the same place-name. In many cases, a glacier name is not shown on earlier 

editions of a map series (for example, AÍ9) but is added to later editions; in the 

latter case the edition year is added for first appearance [for example, AÍ9 (1976) for 

Fjallsjökull]. For the AK map series, the latest editions of AK1–9 are usually cited 

to show the most current usage. The following table provides abbreviations for maps 

cited on which the glacier place-name appears. Maps AB, AÍ, AK, available C762, 

C761, JÍB, JÍK, JÍN, and various sérkort (special maps) can be purchased from 

Iðnú, Brautarholti 8, IS-105 Reykjavík, Ísland (ICELAND). [Tel: 354-562-3376; 

Fax: 354-562-3497; e-mail: ferdakort@ferdakort.is; URL: http://www.ferdakort.is]. 

Important historic maps, FB, GMIP, GMIT, NCOI, and UÍ, are also cited. FB, the 

118 1:50,000-scale fjórðungsblöð series published by the Danish Geodetic Institute, 

are available for review at Landmælingar Íslands (National Land Survey of Iceland), 

Stillholt 16–18, IS-300 Akranes, Ísland (Iceland) but are no longer available for 

sale. All other historic maps are available as facsimiles in either Sigurðsson (1978) 

(for example, NCOI and UÍ) or in map archives such as at Landsbókasafn Íslands 

(National Library of Iceland) [http://kort.bok.hi.is/kort.php].

Tradition of Icelandic Glacier Place-Names

The tradition of Icelandic place-names was inherited mostly from Norway 

during the settlement period about 11 centuries ago. Because of the extraordinary 

conservation of the Icelandic language, most of the place-names that have survived 

for a millennium are easily understood by modern Icelanders. In a way, they can be 

considered transparent in meaning. Making up new place-names in this tradition is 

still a living process among Icelanders.

Glacier place-names in Iceland, in particular, have a customary two-part 

(compound word) form with very few exceptions. The first part is descriptive, 

and the second part is -jökull [glacier]. In this compilation, 269 place-names 

of ice caps (including two contiguous ice caps, GEITLANDSJÖKULL and 

ÖRÆFAJÖKULL), outlet glaciers, ice-flow basins, ice streams, mountain glaciers, 

cirque glaciers, and valley glaciers are in present-day (modern) use. This total 

does not include place-names of six additional glaciers: three mountain glaciers 

that melted and two distributary outlet glaciers that receded into the primary outlet 

glacier and one outlet glacier which receded into its parent ice cap during the latter 

half of the 20th century. The descriptive word preceding jökull in each glacier 

place-name is either a landscape (including lake, mountain, valley, geologic) feature 

(53 percent), river or stream issuing from the glacier (20 percent), nearby farmstead 

(11 percent), cultural feature or term/political subdivision (7 percent), geometry or 

position (5 percent), and person or folklore figure (4 percent).
User’s Guide 39

Table 11. Names of snow patches.

[Abbreviations for map series are explained in text. Snow patch—“An isolated mass of perennial snow and firn not large enough to be called a glacier.” 

(Neuendorf, K.K.E., Mehl, J.P., Jr., and Jackson, J.A., eds., 2005, p. 608). In Iceland, fönn is used to describe a snow patch in the highlands or mountains; 

in layman’s terms, it is also used to describe snow in general. Fönn is also used by Rist (1985) for the name of a former glacier in Hraundalur, Fannardalur, 

Norðfjörður; it is now considered to be a perennial snow patch]

Names

Location

Source/remarks

North latitude West longitude

Vesturland

Glámujökull* 6549′ 2300′ Sigurðsson (2004)

Hattardalsjökull* 6555′ 2305′ Rist (1985)

Háafellsjökull* 6554′ 2133′ Haukur Jóhannesson, oral commun., 2005

Ófeigsfjarðarjökull* 6602′ 2157′ Magnússon [1702—1714 (1955, p. 77)]

Skjaldfönn* 6602.6′ 2220.4′ Hjaltason (1949, p. 112)

Norðurland

Afglapaskarðsjökull* 6535′ 1853′ Häberle (1991, p. 185)

Brekkudalsfönn* 6522′ 1822′ Rist (1985)

Dýjajökull* 6545′ 1832′ Häberle (1991, p. 185)

Eilífsdalsjökull*/Eilífsárdalsjökull* 6604′ 1815′ ÁFÍ 2000 (p. 151, 292)

Fremrijökull* 6527′ 1749′ Guðmundur Gunnarsson, local farmer, oral commun., 2005 

Galtárhnjúksfönn* 6516′ 1826′ Rist (1985)

Geldfjárskálarjökull* 6536′ 1848′ Häberle (1991, p. 185)

Grjótárdalsjökull* 6532′ 1841′ Häberle (1991, p. 185)

Háafjallsjökull* 6534′ 1838′ Häberle (1991, p. 185)

Heimarijökull* 6528′ 1749′ Shown on map AB73 (1935 and 1972)

Hjaltadalsheiðarjökull* 6536′ 1853′ Vigfússon [1843 (1954, p. 124)]

Kirkjufjallsjökull* 6531′ 1831′ Häberle (1991, p. 186) and Escritt (n.d., p. 36)

Rauðuskriðudalsjökull* 6527′ 18 36′ Häberle (1991, p. 186)

Seldalsjökull* 65 23′ 18 37′ Häberle (1991, p. 186) and Escritt (n.d., p. 36)

Skarðsárdalsjöklar* 65 41′ 18 44′ Häberle (1991, p. 185)

Snjóskálarfönn* 6518′ 1819′ Rist (1985)

Torfnahnjúksfönn* 6512′ 1817′ Rist (1985)

Tungujökull* 6554′ 1901′ Þorvaldsson [1840 (1954, p. 179)]

Úlfárskálarfönn*/Úlfárjökull* (fig. 186) 6517′ 1818′ Rist (1985), J7 (p. 56, 57), ÁFÍ 1991 (p. 176)

Þrastarhólsskarðsjökull* 65 48′ 1820′ Häberle (1991, p. 186)
40 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Names

Location

Source/remarks

North latitude West longitude

Miðháland

Skriðufönn * 6422′ 2041′ Rist (1985)

Trölladyngjufönn* 6454′ 1715′ Rist (1985)

Öskjufönn* 6501′ 1643′ Rist (1985)

Suðurland

Brattafönn* 6338′ 1926′ Melted away; no longer exists; map series C761 (1812II)

Langafönn* 6359′ 1942′ Kjartansson in ÁFÍ 1945 (p. 126, 130)

Lágjökull* 6337′ 1926′ Sigurðsson (2004, p. 58)

Austurland

Fönn* (Norðfjarðarjökull*) 6509′ 1406′ Rist (1985), Jónsson (1953, v. X, p. 142, 144), Olavius [1780 

(1965, v. 2, p. 124)], Pálsson [1795 (2004, p. 4)], Kålund 

[1877 (1984, v. IV, p. 42)], ÁFÍ 1955 (p. 12), Thorarinsson (1943, p. 17). Norðfjarðarjökull* is an alternative name 

(Gunnarsson, 1950 [1876])

Gagnheiðarjökull* 6458′ 1419′ Rist (1985)

Hornbrynjujökull* 6452′ 1456′ Oddsson [1638 (1942, p. 103)]

Hróarsdalsjökull* 6457′ 1421′ ÁFÍ 1955 (p. 12), ÁFÍ 2002 (p. 207)

Langafönn* 6442′ 1433′ ÁFÍ 2002 ( p. 78, map on p. 72)

Skúmhattarfönn* 6503′ 1429′ Rist (1985)

Table 11. (Continued) Names of snow patches.
User’s Guide 41

Journals, Books, Maps, and Map Series with Place-Names of Glaciers

Abbreviation Name of map or map series Scale Publication date(s)

Maps and Map Series with Place Names of Glaciers

AB atlasblöð [renamed atlaskort; series of 87 maps] 1:100,000 1902–1939

AÍ aðalkort yfir Ísland [old series of 9 maps (1–9)] 1:250,000 1910 to about 1991

AK aðalkort [ new series of 9 maps (1–9); includes ferðakort maps in 

some cases]

1:250,000 from about 1987 to present

C762 U.S. Army Map Service AMS series of 297 maps 1:50,000 1950–1951

C761 Landmælingar Íslands (LMÍ)/Defense Mapping Agency (DMA) 

[subsequently called the National Imagery and Mapping Agency 

(NIMA), now called the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency 

(NGA)], [series of 199 (LMI) and 200 (NGA) maps]

1:50,000 1977– ( ~50 percent completed as of 

2006; 21st century priorities of NGA 

preclude completion of series)

FB fjórðungsblöð (old series of 118 maps) 1:50,000 1905–15; more recent

GMIP Geological Map of Iceland (C.W. Paijkull) 1:1,920,000 1867

GMIT Geological Map of Iceland (Þorvaldur Thoroddsen) 1:600,000 1901

JÍB Jarðfræðikort af Íslandi berggrunnur (Haukur Jóhannesson and 

Kristján Sæmundsson)

1:500,000 1989, 1998

JÍK Jarðfræðikort af Íslandi [Guðmundur Kjartansson (5 sheets of 9 

published; sheet 4 was reportedly completed but, unfortunately, lost 

before publication)]

1:250,000 1–1969; 2–1968; 3–1960; 5–1965; 

6–1962

JÍN Jarðfræðikort af Íslandi [new series; 5 sheets of 9 published] 

(2–Haukur Jóhannesson) (3–Kristján Sæmundsson and Sigmundur 

Einarsson) (6–Haukur Jóhannesson, Sveinn P. Jakobsson, and 

Kristján Sæmundsson) (7–Kristján Sæmundsson) (9–Helgi 

Torfason)

1:250,000 2–1994; 3–1980; 6–1982; 7–1977; 

9–1985

NCOI* Nyt Carte over Island (Jón Eiríksson and Gerhard Schøning) 1771

NCOI* Nyt Carte over Island (Jón Eiríksson and Ólafur Olavius) 1780

UÍ Uppdráttr Íslands (Björn Gunnlaugsson)

No. 1 – Suðvestr-Fjórðúngr

No. 2 – Suðaustr-Fjórðúngr

No. 3 – Norðaustr-Fjórðúngr

No. 4 – Norðvestr-Fjórðúngr

1:480,000 1848

*The names of 24 of the glaciers shown on the two editions of NCOI are identical, except that a 25th name, Glaama-Iökull, only appears on 

the 1771 edition.

Icelandic Scientific Journals and Book Series with Place Names of Glaciers**

Year First Published

ÁFÍ Árbók Ferðafélags Íslands [continuous publication since 

1928–(1928–)]

J Jökull 1951–(v. 1–)

**Citations in the descriptive summary paragraph for Árbók Ferðafélags Íslands are as follows: ÁFÍ 1960 (p. 66). Because of occasional 

publication delays, Jökull’s volume number and published date are not always consistent; therefore citations in the descriptive summary 

paragraph are either J14 (p. 70–75) or the author of the article in Jökull is given as a standard citation.

Alphabetical List of the 

Glaciers of Iceland

Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 45

Akstaðajökull

Figure 11. Oblique aerial photograph of the Akstaðajökull outlet glacier on 11 September 1992. View looking to the southeast across the 

EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL ice cap. The outlet glacier protrudes from the northwestern margin of the ice cap. The MÝRDALSJÖKULL ice cap is in the 

distance on the left side of the photograph. Photograph no. 14660h by O.S., NEA.

A

Afglapaskarðsjökull* Norðurland 65°35′N., 18°53′W. 

Snow patch in Afglapaskarð pass (table 11), for which it is named, between 

Hjaltadalur and Hörgárdalur, Tröllaskagi. Cited by Häberle (1991, p. 185).

AINCOPELTZ HOKEL Hofsjökull Group 64°59′N., 19°10′W. 

64°38′N., 18°25′W.

Probably a misspelling of ARNARFELLSJÖKULL (HOFSJÖKULL) (fig. 4A). 

On the 1595 map of Islandia which was probably drawn by Guðbrandur Þorláksson. 

It was included in Mercator’s 1595 Atlas (Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 24).

Akstaðajökull Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°39′N., 19°45′W.

Outlet glacier in northwestern EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL (figs. 3B, 11, 42A). 

Kaplaskarðsjökull is an alternative name. On a map by Alfreðsson (1995). Named 

for the abandoned Akstaðir farmstead.

ARNAFELDS IOKUL Hofsjökull Group 64°59′N., 19°10′W.

64°38′N., 18°25′W. 

Foreign spelling of ARNARFELLSJÖKULL (HOFSJÖKULL) (fig. 4A). On the 

1590 map of Islandia; it was included on Abraham Ortelius’ 1590 Theatrum orbis 

terrarum map (Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 16).
46 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

ARNARFELLSJÖKULL Hofsjökull Group 64°59′N., 19°10′W.

64°38′N., 18°25′W.

Historic name, used originally by Icelanders in Suðurland for Iceland’s third 

largest ice cap. Since about 1700, the ice cap has also been called HOFSJÖKULL

(fig. 4A). The evolution of the name from ARNARFELLSJÖKULL to 

HOFSJÖKULL is discussed under HOFSJÖKULL. ARNARFELLSJÖKULL 

was cited by Oddsson [1638 (1942, p. 103)]; Magnússon and Vídalín [1702–1712 

(1981, v. 2, p. 274)], and Magnússon [1702–1714 (1955, p. 98–99)]. It appeared 

on Pálsson’s [(1795), Tab. IV (2004, p. 99)] 1794 map of ARNARFELLSJÖKULL 

or HOFSJÖKULL, on UÍ1, 2 (Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 256)], and on GMIP as 

HOFSJÖKULL or ARNARFELLSJÖKULL. Noted by Kålund [1877 (1984, 

v. IV, p. 114, 116)] and Thoroddsen (1892, p.122, 132, and 1915, p. 47). Named for 

Arnarfell, a double-peaked mountain (Arnarfell hið litla and Arnarfell hið mikla) 

between which the Rótarjökull outlet glacier flows.

ARNARVATNSJÖKULL Langjökull Group 64°48′N., 20°28′W.

64°45′N., 20°20′W.

Historic name, probably for ERÍKSJÖKULL (fig. 5). Cited by Oddsson [1638 

(1917, p. 62)]. Named for the Arnarvatn lake.

Austari-Jökulsárjökull Hofsjökull Group 64°58′N., 18°45′W.

On the northern part of HOFSJÖKULL, a named ice-flow basin defined by surface 

topography during radio-echosounding surveys into a “western branch” and an 

“eastern branch” (figs. 4A, 12, 86). Named by Björnsson (1988, p. 64; Map 19, 

Glaciers 17 and 18). [Note: In table 4.3 on p. 64, Austari-Jökulsárjökull is Glacier 17, 

including both the “western branch” and the “eastern branch.”] Named for the 

Austari-Jökulsá river.

AUSTURJÖKLAR Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°48′N., 19°26′W.

63°31′N., 18°47′W.

An historic name for MÝRDALSJÖKULL (fig. 3A). Cited by Kålund [1877 (1984, 

v. I, p. 195)]. The name means glaciers to the east.

Figure 12. Oblique aerial photograph of 

the Austari-Jökulsárjökull outlet glacier on 

23 August 1998. View looking to the south 

toward the HOFSJÖKULL ice cap in the 

catchment area of the Austari-Jökulsá river. 

Photograph no. 20913v by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 47

AUSTURJÖKLAR Vatnajökull Group 64°49′N., 17°42′W.

63°52′N., 15°23′W.

An historic name for VATNAJÖKULL or the eastern part of VATNAJÖKULL

(fig. 2A). AUSTURJÖKULL is an alternative name. Cited by Ólafsson (1749) and 

Ólafsson [1772 (1975, v. 2, p. 88)]. The name means the glaciers to the east.

AUSTURJÖKULL Vatnajökull Group 64°49′N., 17°42′W.

63°52′N., 15°23′W.

An historic name for VATNAJÖKULL or the eastern part of VATNAJÖKULL

(fig. 2A). Noted by Pálsson [1795, §11 and §12 (2004, see Endnote no. 97, p. 158)]. 

See also AUSTURJÖKLAR. The name means the glacier to the east.

AUSTURJÖKULL Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°49′N., 19°47′W.

63°31′N., 18°47′W.

An historic name for EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL (figs. 3A, B) (including modern 

MÝRDALSJÖKULL) [Pálsson, 1795, §12 and §16 (2004, see Endnote no. 97, 

p. 158] or MÝRDALSJÖKULL [Jónsson (1840, p. 54)]. The name means the 

glacier to the east.

“Austurjökull” Suðurland 63°25′N., 18°50′W.

Jökulhlaup deposits from Kötluhlaup along the course of Múlakvísl on the western 

side of Mýrdalssandur. “Austurjökull” lies east of another jökulhlaup deposit, 

“Höfðabrekkujökull,” both cited by Thoroddsen (1914b, v, 3, p. 102). “Austurjökull” 

has now been mostly eroded by the course of Múlakvísl [Jónsson (1983; map on 

p. 62)]. Shown on FB69NV (1957). See fig. 10A and table 10. The name means the 

jökulhlaup deposit to the east.

Austurlandsjöklar Vatnajökull Group and Austfjarðajöklar

Historic name used as a collective term for the glaciers in eastern Iceland (fig. 9C). 

First used by Olavius [1780 (1965, v. II, p. 130)]. Austurlandsjöklar implies all of 

the glaciers of eastern Iceland and is not intended as a place name.

Austurtungnajökull Vatnajökull Group 64°32′N., 15°17′W.

Outlet glacier on the eastern margin of VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 13, 154, 188). 

Skyndidalsjökull is an alternative name. Cited in ÁFÍ 1974 (p. 60) and ÁFÍ 1993 

(p. 178). Shown on AB96 (1972)/AB106 (1977), AI8 (1976), AK8 (1997), and C762 

(6120I). Named for the Austurtungur common.

Axarfellsjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°32′N., 15°13′W.

Outlet glacier on the eastern margin of VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 14, 154, 174, 

188). Öxarfellsjökull is an alternative spelling. Axarjökull and Axarfjallsjökull are 

alternative names. Cited by Thoroddsen (1906, p. 199). Named for the Axarfell 

mountain.

Axarfjallsjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°35′N., 15°13′W.

Alternative name for Axarfellsjökull. Cited in ÁFÍ (1937, p. 71).

Axarjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°35′N., 15°13′W.

Alternative name for Axarfellsjökull. Shown on the following maps: AB105 (1976) 

and AK8 (1997).
48 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Axlarjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°48′N., 15°35′W.

Mountain glacier on the southwest side of Snæfell (figs. 2C, 15, 29A). Shown on 

Jenning’s (1952) 1938 map of Snæfell as D (see Thorarinsson, 1964, p. 71). Cited by 

Guttormsson (1998, p. 15) and Hjartarson (2000, p. 2). Shown on map by Hjartarson 

(2000). Named for Gönguöxl ridge.

Álftabrekkujökull Hofsjökull Group 64°52′N., 19°06′W.

On the northwestern part of HOFSJÖKULL, a named ice-flow basin defined by 

surface topography during radio-echosounding surveys (figs. 4A, 16, 86). Named by 

Björnsson (1988, p. 64; Map 19, Glacier 13). Named for the Álftabrekkur hillside.

Figure 13. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Austurtungnajökull outlet glacier 

on 28 September 2002. The outlet glacier 

is on the right side of the photograph on 

the eastern margin of the VATNAJÖKULL

ice cap. View looking to the northwest 

toward the Goðahnjúkar nunataks. The 

upper reaches of the Lambatungnajökull

outlet glacier are in the background on the 

left. Photograph no. 26683v by O.S., NEA.

Figure 14. Ground photograph of the 

Axarfellsjökull outlet glacier on 2 July 2004. 

View looking to the west. Photograph 

no. 28535 by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 49

Axlarjökul l

Ljósurðarjökul l

Ljósurðarjökul l

Dökkurðarjökul l

Dökkurðarjökul l

Figure 15. Oblique aerial photograph of the Axlarjökull mountain glacier (right rear) and the parallel Dökkurðarjökull mountain glacier (right center) 

and Ljósurðarjökull cirque glacier (left center) on the Snæfell mountain on 6 September 1984. An unnamed mountain glacier is visible over the ridge 

on the left. The ÞRÁNDARJÖKULL ice cap is visible in the left background; the northeast margin of the VATNAJÖKULL ice cap is in the right 

background. Photograph no. 6783v by O.S., NEA.

Figure 16. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Álftabrekkujökull outlet glacier on 

23 August 1998. View looking southeast 

toward the HOFSJÖKULL ice cap across the 

Álftabrekkur hillside. Photograph no. 20922v 

by O.S., NEA.
50 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

B

“BALDJÖKULL” Langjökull Group 64°50′N., 19°58′W. 

Internal ice dome on the northern part of LANGJÖKULL (fig. 5). Cited in 

Magnússon [1702–1714 (1955, p. 99)], Ólafsson and Pálsson [1772 (1975, v. 2, 

p. 4)], Thoroddsen (1911, p. 21), and Björnsson, 2002, p. 137). It means the convex 

glacier.

Balldjökull Langjökull Group 64°48′N., 20°28′W.

64°45′N., 20°20′W.

Spelling variation for the northern part of LANGJÖKULL (fig. 5). Shown on 

Pálsson’s [1795, Tab. III (2004, p. 87) 1792 map of LANGIJÖKULL as Balld- or 

Ball-jökull. Cited by Oddsson [1638 (1917, p. 62)] and Pálsson [1795, §17 (2004, 

p. 88)]. Shown on NCOI as Balld=Iökull, south of Blaafells=Iökull.

Balljökull Langjökull Group 64°48′N., 20°28′W.

64°45′N., 20°20′W.

Originally a name for EIRÍKSJÖKULL (fig. 5) [ÁFÍ 2001 (p. 186) and ÁFÍ 2004 

(p. 291)]. Cited first in Grettis saga (Jónsson, 1948, 1953) which was written in the 

early 1300s. Also cited in Íslenskt fornbréfasafn [1398 (1896, p. 625)]. The placename was later moved to the northern part of LANGJÖKULL. The name means 

ball-shaped glacier.

Balljökull Langjökull Group 64°50′N., 19°58′W.

Historic name for the northern part of LANGJÖKULL (fig. 5). Shown on Pálsson’s 

[1795, Tab. III (2004, p. 87)] 1792 map of LANGIJÖKULL as Balld- or Ball-jökull, 

on UÍ1 (Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 256), on GMIP, and on GMIT as Balljökull. Also on 

map in ÁFÍ 2004 (p. 17). Cited by Thoroddsen (1911, p. 21).

Barkárdalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°39.5′N., 18°49′W.

Cirque glacier in Tröllaskagi, northern Iceland, one of three glaciers that are 

part of the compound glacier, Tungnahryggsjökull (figs. 8A, C, 17, 167). 

Barkárjökull is an alternate name. Cited by Ahlmann (1937, p. 223) and Häberle 

(1991, p. 185). Barkárdalsjökull is shown on the following maps: AB63 (1965), 

AÍ4 (1966), AK4 (1996), C762 (5824III/5823IV), C761 (1916III), JÍB, map in 

Escritt (1977, p. 59), map in Häberle (1991, p. 105) as glacier no. 11, and on 

location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 11). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 36) as northern 

(Glacier 05/F/05) [Barkárdalsjökull nyrðri] and southern (Glacier 05/F/06) 

[Barkárdalsjökull syðri] parts and shown on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and 

Escritt (n.d.). Barkárdalsjökull is the name given to a glacier at the head of 

Barkárdalur valley for which it is named; however, it is known to the local residents 

as Tungnahryggsjökull and applies to the entire glacier across the pass down to 

Kolbeinsdalur.

Barkárjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°39′N., 18°49′W.

Alternative name for Barkárdalsjökull. Cited by Steindórsson (1949, p. 15), Rist 

(1985), and ÁFÍ 1946 (p. 74). Named for the Barká river.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 51

“BÁRÐARBUNGA” Vatnajökull Group 64°38′N., 17°33′W.

Internal ice dome in the northwestern part of VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 131A, B, 

158, 177, 188). “BÁRÐARJÖKULL” and “BÁRÐARGNÍPA” are alternative 

names. Cited in Ahlmann (1937, p. 230). The ice dome overlies an active volcanic 

caldera. Shown on the following maps: AÍ5 (1981), AK5 (1988), JÍK5, JÍB, AB75 

(1976)/AB76 (1977), C761 (2014II, III), C762 (5920IV-“Bardharbunga”). Named 

for the settler Bárður Heyjangurs-Bjarnarson.

“BÁRÐARGNÍPA” Vatnajökull Group 64°38 ́N., 17°33 ́W.

Alternative name of “BARÐARBUNGA”. Cited in Leutelt (1935, p. 198) and 

Einarsson (1934, p. 154) as Bárðargnýpa; Leutelt (1937, p. 136) as Bardar Gnypa; 

Schmid (1936, p. 433) as Bárdargnýpa; and Pollitzer-Pollenghi (1936, p. 266, and on 

map) as Bárðargnípa. The spelling “BÁRÐARGNÍPA” is preferred. Named for the 

settler Bárður Heyjangurs-Bjarnarson.

“BÁRÐARJÖKULL” Vatnajökull Group 64°38′N., 17°33′W.

A name suggested by Pálmi Hannesson (1938, p. 64) for “BÁRÐARBUNGA” 

on the northwestern margin of VATNAJÖKULL. Named for the settler Bárður 

Heyjangurs-Bjarnarson.

B a r k á r d a l s j ö k u l l

G í s l a j ö k u l l

Myrkárjökull

Lambárjökull

Figure 17. Oblique aerial photograph of Barkárdalsjökull cirque glacier at the head of Barkárdalur on 6 September 2000. The Lambárjökull

(extreme left) and the Gíslajökull (left center) cirque glaciers are also visible. View looking to the west. The Myrkárjökull cirque glacier is in the 

background on the left side of the photograph. Photograph no. 24057v by O.S., NEA.
52 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

“BÁRDHARNÚPUR” Vatnajökull Group 64°38′N., 17°33′W.

A name shown in the position of “BÁRÐARBUNGA” on a 1:600,000-scale 

World War II map of Iceland published by the War Office (U.K.) in 1943. Edition: 

Geographical Section, General Staff No. 4140; 2nd Edition, 10,000/9/43.A. 

Compiled and drawn at the War Office in 1940; heliographed [photoengraved] by 

the Ordinance Survey in 1940. Named for “Bárður’s Peak.”

Bessahlaðajökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°30.6′N., 18°39′W.

Small mountain glacier in Bessahlaðaskarð, Öxnadalur, Tröllaskagi (figs. 8A, C, 

189) contiguous with Vatnsdalsjökull. Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 36) and Häberle 

(1991, p. 185). Shown as Glacier 05/F/15 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and 

Escritt (n.d.). Named after the Bessahlaðir abandoned farmstead.

Birnudalsjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°15′N., 15°55′W.

Small mountain glacier on the southeastern margin of VATNAJÖKULL that is not 

contiguous with the ice cap (figs. 2A, 18, 26A). Cited in J17 (p. 323). Shown on 

location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 9). Named for the Birnudalur valley.

Figure 18. Oblique aerial photograph of the Birnudalsjökull mountain glacier on 28 September 2002. The mountain glacier is located on the 

southern margin of the VATNAJÖKULL ice cap. View looking to the northwest toward the upper reaches of the Skálafellsjökull outlet glacier. 

Photograph no. 26667h by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 53

Birnujökull Vatnajökull Group 64°15′N., 15°55′W.

Alternative name for Birnudalsjökull. Cited in J2 (p. 31). Named after the 

Birnudalur valley.

Blautukvíslarjökull Hofsjökull Group 64°38′N., 18°55′W.

Outlet glacier on the southern margin of HOFSJÖKULL (figs. 4A, 19, 86). It first 

appeared on maps in 1978 [AÍ5 (1978)]. Also shown on AK5 (1996), JÍB, and C761 

(1914III). Named for the Blautakvísl river. 

Figure 19. Oblique aerial photograph of 

Blautukvíslarjökull outlet glacier on the 

southern margin of the HOFSJÖKULL ice cap 

on 23 August 1998. View looking to the north. 

The Tanni and Hásteinar nunataks are visible 

in the background. Photograph no. 20894v by 

O.S., NEA.

Bláfellsjökull Langjökull Group 64°38′N., 20°07′W.

Historic name of the central and southeastern part of LANGJÖKULL (fig. 5). 

First shown on NCOI, but without reference to LANGJÖKULL. Pálsson’s [1795, 

Tab. III (2004, p. 87, 92)] 1792 map of LANGIJÖKULL shows Bláfellsjökull in the 

central and southeastern part of the ice cap. Ólafsson and Pálsson [1772 (1975, v. 1, 

p. 56)] states that some Icelanders call EIRÍKSJÖKULL, BLÁFELLSJÖKULL. 

UÍ1, GMIP, GMIT, and Thoroddsen (1906, p. 176) show Bláfellsjökull on the 

southeastern part of LANGJÖKULL. Gunnarsson [1877 (1949, p. 229)] states that 

Bláfellsjökull is the southeastern part of LANGJÖKULL. In Thoroddsen (1911, 

p. 21), he refers to Bláfellsjökull or Skjaldbreiðarjökull. Named for the Bláfell 

mountain.

Bláfellsjökull Langjökull Group 64°38′N., 20°25′W.

Southern main body of LANGJÖKULL (fig. 5). Name shown on a perspective 

drawing of the surface of LANGJÖKULL (Björnsson, 2002, p. 136, 137) as situated 

on the southwestern part of LANGJÖKULL. Named for the Bláfell mountain.

Blágilsjökull Snæfellsjökull 64°49′N., 23°48′W.

Outlet glacier on the northwestern margin of SNÆFELLSJÖKULL (figs. 6, 20, 92). 

Named by Eyþórsson (1931, p. 25). Shown on location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 5). 

Named for the Blágil gully.
54 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Blágnípujökull Hofsjökull Group 64°44′N., 19°08′W.

Outlet glacier on the southwestern margin of HOFSJÖKULL (figs. 4A, 21, 86). 

Shown on the following maps: AK5 (1996) and on location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, 

p. 10). Named for the Blágnípa mountain around which the glacier flows in two 

lobes. Anecdotal evidence suggests that Blágnípujökull may be a surge-type glacier 

(Björnsson and others, 2003, p. 85).

Blágnýpujökull Hofsjökull Group 64°44′N., 19°08′W.

A common misspelling for Blágnípujökull. Magnússon [1702–1714 (1955, p. 99)] 

states that HOFSJÖKULL, ARNARFELLSJÖKULL, and BLÁGNÝPUJÖKULL 

are one and the same. The spelling variation Blánýpujökull appears in Magnússon 

and Vídalín [1702–1712 (1981, v. 2, p. 274)]. Used on UÍ1 (Sigurðsson, 1978, 

ff p. 256) and noted by Thoroddsen (1892, p. 122). Shown on maps AÍ5 (1978, 

1981) and C761 (1814II).

Figure 20. Oblique aerial photograph of the 

Blágilsjökull outlet glacier on the northern 

margin of the SNÆFELLSJÖKULL ice cap on 

18 October 2001. The Hólatindajökull outlet 

glacier can be seen on the right side of the 

ice cap. Photograph no. 25773v by O.S., NEA.

Figure 21. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Blágnípujökull outlet glacier 

on 23 August 1998. The outlet glacier 

bifurcates around the Blágnípa Mountain 

on the southwestern margin of the 

HOFSJÖKULL ice cap. View looking to the 

north. Blöndujökull, an outlet glacier, is 

in the background on the left. Photograph 

no. 20929v by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 55

BLÁNÝPUJÖKULL Vatnajökull Group 64°48′N., 18°01′W.

64°42′N., 17°49′W.

Historic name for TUNGNAFELLSJÖKULL (figs. 2B, 182). Cited by Pálsson 

[1795, (2004) see Endnote no. 110, p. 159] in reference to TUNGNAFELLSJÖKULL. Named for the historic Blánípur mountains.

Blesárjökull Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°49′N., 19°36′W.

Mountain glacier to the north of Tindfjallajökull (figs. 3D, 22). Cited in ÁFÍ 1960 

(p. 21) and ÁFÍ 1976 (p. 46). Shown on the following maps: C761 (1812IV), AK6 

(1996), and sérkort Landmannalaugar-Þórsmörk (1985). Named for the Blesá river.

Blöndujökull Hofsjökull Group 64°48′N., 19°09′W.

Outlet glaciers on the western margin of HOFSJÖKULL between Blágnípa and 

Álftabrekka (figs. 4A, 86). Cited in Hannesson (1928, p. 127). Named for the 

Blanda, a major north-flowing glacier river.

B l e s á r j ö k u l l

T i n d f j a l l a j ö k u l l

Figure 22. Oblique aerial photograph of the Blesárjökull mountain glacier, a part of Tindfjallajökull, on 4 August 1999. The mountain glacier is 

located on the north side of the Tindfjallajökull volcanic caldera. View looking to the southwest. The rest of the Tindfjallajökull mountain glacier is in 

the background on the left side. Photograph no. 22799v by O.S., NEA.
56 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Blöndujökull Hofsjökull Group 64°48′N., 19°09′W.

Outlet glacier on the western margin of HOFSJÖKULL (figs. 4A, 23, 86). It first 

appeared on maps in 1966 [AB55 (1966)]. Name cited in Hannesson (1928, p. 127) 

(see previous entry on Blöndujökull). Shown on AÍ5 (1967), C761 (1814I), and AK5 

(1988 and 1996). Anecdotal evidence suggests that Blöndujökull may be a surgetype glacier (Björnsson and others, 2003, p. 85). Named for the Blanda, a major 

north-flowing glacier river.

Figure 23. Oblique aerial photograph of the 

Blöndujökull outlet glacier on 23 August 1998. 

The outlet glacier is on the western margin of 

HOFSJÖKULL ice cap. View looking to the 

east. An ice-filled volcanic caldera is visible in 

the background. Photograph no. 20926v by 

O.S., NEA.

Blöndujökull Vatnajökull Group 64°40′N., 15°23′W.

Abandoned name for Geldingafellsjökull, an outlet glacier on the northeastern 

margin of VATNAJÖKULL, east of Eyjabakkajökull. Shown on map in ÁFÍ 1987 

(p. 69) and on map in Guttormsson (1998, p. 21). Named by Hjörleifur Guttormsson 

for Blanda, a small creek.

Borgarjökull Hofsjökull Group 64°38′N., 19°15′W.

Mountain glacier in Kerlingarfjöll (figs. 4B, 24, 138). Named for Fannborg mountain 

peak by Jón Eyþórsson and Steinþór Sigurðsson in ÁFÍ 1942 (p. 5, 19, 32).

Botnajökull Hofsjökull Group 64°37′N., 19°13′W.

Mountain glacier in Kerlingarfjöll (figs. 4B, 24, 45, 138). Named for the Kisubotnar 

drainage basin by Jón Eyþórsson and Steinþór Sigurðsson in ÁFÍ 1942 (p. 5, p. 20, 

and p. 33); also shown on sketch map in ÁFÍ 1942 (ff p. 104).

Botnjökull Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°45′N., 19°12′W.

Historic name for the northwestern part of MÝRDALSJÖKULL (figs. 3A, 150). 

Described by Pálsson [1795, §16; Tab. II (2004, p. 77)] in reference to the western 

part of MÝRDALSJÖKULL. On his 1795 map of EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL 

(Tab. II), Pálsson refers to Botnjökull or Emstrujökull. Cited by Thoroddsen 

(1892, p. 123). Botnjökull is, according to Thoroddsen (1911, p. 31), the same 

as Merkurjökull and from a modern perspective would include Krossárjökull, 

Tungnakvíslarjökull, Entujökull, and the western part of Sléttjökull. Also shown 

on 1:250,000-scale LMÍ Ferðakort 2 (2005) along the northwestern margin of 

MÝRDALSJÖKULL from Krossárjökull to western part of Sléttjökull. Probably 

named for the Botn spring area in southern Emstrur.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 57

Botnjökull Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°47′N., 18°56′W.

Northeastern margin of MÝRDALSJÖKULL between Öldufell and Mælifell 

(figs. 3A, 150) (Einarsson, 1974, p. 45). Shown on AK6 (1996) and several other 

editions; probably a misunderstanding.

Brattafönn* Suðurland 63°38′N., 19°26′W.

Ephemeral snow patch located on the north side of the saddle between EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL and MÝRDALSJÖKULL (table 11). Cited on C761 (1812II). Named for 

its steep inclination.

Brattöldujökull Hofsjökull Group 64°42′N., 19°05′W.

On the southwestern part of HOFSJÖKULL, an ice-flow basin defined by surface 

topography during radio-echosounding surveys (figs. 4A, 25, 86). Named by 

Björnsson (1988, p. 64; Map 19, Glacier 9). Named for the Brattalda hill.

Borgarjökull

Skessujökull

Loðmundarjökull eystri

B o t n a j ö k u l l

Hangandi

Kisujökull

Figure 24. Oblique aerial photograph of the Borgarjökull mountain glacier on 23 August 1998. Botnajökull is in the foreground; Kisujökull

is in the upper center; Borgarjökull is over the divide at the top center; it is contiguous with Kisujökull. Skessujökull, contiguous with 

Loðmundarjökull eystri (facing away), is at the top on the right. In between on the right is Hangandi, although just barely visible. View looking 

to the north. Photograph no. 20890v by O.S., NEA.
58 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

“BREIÐABUNGA” Vatnajökull Group 64°27′N., 16°05′W.

Internal ice dome in the southeastern part of VATNAJÖKULL (fig. 2A). Named for 

its broad cupola feature by Ahlmann and Thorarinsson (1937, p. 205). Shown on the 

following maps: AÍ8/9 (1976), AK8/9 (1997), JÍN9, JÍB, AB86 (1945)/AB96 (1972), 

C762 (6020I, II; 6120III, IV).

Breiðamerkurjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°05′N., 16°18′W.

Broad, piedmont-type compound outlet glacier on the southeastern margin of 

VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 26A, B, 188). Breiðamerkurjökull is a composite 

of four ice streams, separated by three medial moraines, three of which, 

Norðlingalægðarjökull, Esjufjallajökull, and Mávabyggðajökull were cited 

by Sigbjarnarson (1971), who used jökull in the sense of ice stream within the 

Breiðamerkurjökull outlet glacier. Mávabyggðajökull actually contains two ice 

streams, separated by a medial moraine. First shown on a map of Iceland in 1733 

by T.H.H. Knopf (Carte over Westere og Østere Skaftefellssÿsell) (Sigurðsson, 

1978, ff p. 144). Noted by Þórður Þorkelsson Vídalín [1754, II. §2 (1965, p. 24)], 

Ólafsson and Pálsson [1772, (1975, v. 2, p, 107)], NCOI, and Pálsson’s [1795, 

Tab. I (2004, p. 40)] 1794 map of KLOFAJÖKULL or VATNAJÖKULL, and by 

Thoroddsen (1892, p. 127). Shown on the following maps: UÍ2 (Sigurðsson, 1978, 

ff p. 256)], GMIP (-jökull missing, however), GMIT, AÍ9 (1976), AB 86, 87, 96, 97, 

FB 87 N.V., N.A., S.A., FB 97 N.V., S.V., C762 (6019I, II, III, IV; 6020II, III), AK9 

(1997), JÍB, JÍN (9), and on location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 9). Named for the 

Breiðamörk farmstead.

Breiðarársandsjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°05′N., 16°18′W. 

Historic name for Breiðamerkurjökull. Cited in Stefánsson [1746 (1957, p. 18)]. 

Named for Breiðamerkursandur outwash plain.

Brekkudalsfönn* Norðurland 65°22′N., 18°22′W.

Snow patch at the head of Brekkudalur valley (table 11), for which it is named. 

Cited by Rist (1985).

Figure 25. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Brattöldujökull ice-flow basin on 

23 August 1998. The ice-flow basin is located 

on the southern margin of the HOFSJÖKULL

ice cap. View looking to the north across the 

ice cap toward the ice-filled volcanic caldera 

in the background. The Tanni nunatak is on 

the upper right. Photograph no. 20931v by 

O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 59

64°30'N

0 20 KILOMETERS

16°W

17°W

A

B

Figure 26. A, Landsat 3 RBV image on 

9 August 1978 of the Breiðamerkurjökull

compound, surge-type outlet glacier, other 

outlet glaciers from ÖRÆFAJÖKULL, and 

the eastern margin of VATNAJÖKULL.

Landsat 3 RBV image 30157-11572-B from 

USGS, EROS Data Center, Sioux Falls, 

SD 57198.

B, Oblique aerial photograph of 

Breiðamerkurjökull on 6 March 2003. View 

looking to the north toward the Esjufjöll 

nunataks on the southeastern margin of the 

VATNAJÖKULL ice cap. The Breiðárlón 

and Jökulsárlón proglacial lakes are in front 

of the glacier. The Fjallsjökull outlet glacier 

is on the left. Photograph no. 26845v by 

O.S., NEA. See also figures 26A and 2A.
60 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Brimnesdalsjökull

Kistujökull

66°4'N

66°3'N

0 2 KILOMETERS

18°38'W 18°35'W 18°32'W

Figure 27. Enlargement of part 

of a SPOT-5 satellite image of the 

Brimnesdalsjökull cirque glacier on 

16 August 2004. The cirque glacier is at 

the head of Brimnesdalur in the lower 

middle of the image. The remnants 

of another cirque glacier, Kistujökull, 

are in the upper right on the Kistufjall 

mountain. Part of the town of Ólafsfjörður 

is visible in the upper left. SPOT-5 

image© no. 713-213-1-040816, 2.5-m 

pixel panchromatic band from SPOT 

Image Corp., Chantilly, Va. Used with 

permission.

Brimnesdalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 66°02.6′N., 18°35.8′W.

Mountain glacier at the head of Brimnesdalur, for which it is named, in Ólafsfjörður, 

northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 27). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 35). Shown as Glacier 

05/C/02 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.).

Bríkurjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°10′N., 16°08′W.

Alternative name for Fellsárjökull. Cited in ÁFÍ 1993 (p. 125). Named for a 

basaltic dike called Brík (Þverárbrík).

Brókarjöklar Langjökull Group 64°46′N., 20°26′W.

Alternative collective name for two outlet glaciers on the northwestern (Brækur 

vestri) and northern (Brækur eystri) margin of EIRÍKSJÖKULL. Brækur is an 

alternative collective name. Cited in ÁFÍ 2004 (p. 288; map on p. 280).

Brókarjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°15′N., 16°08′W.

Steep outlet glacier on the southeastern margin of VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 

26A, 28, 188). Noted and misplaced by Thoroddsen (1906, p. 198), who called 

it Steinajökull, an alternative name. Cited in ÁFÍ 1937 (p. 40, 41) and J2 (p. 31). 

Shown on the following maps: AB96, AÍ9 (1971), AK9 (1997), and on location map 

(Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 9). Named for a protruding rock Brók.

Brúarjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°45′N., 16°06′W.

Largest of VATNAJÖKULL’s outlet glaciers; it is located on the northern margin 

of VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 29A, B, 188) and has a history of huge surges. 

On Pálsson’s [1795, Tab. I (2004, p. 40)] 1794 map of KLOFAJÖKULL or 

VATNAJÖKULL. Cited by Thoroddsen (1892, p. 126). Shown on the following 

maps: GMIT, JÍB, AÍ8 (1976), AK8 (1997), AB (85, 86, 95, 96), C762 (6020I, IV; 

6021II, III; 6120IV), and on location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 9). Named for the 

Brú farmstead.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 61

Brækur Langjökull Group 64°46′N., 20°26′W.

Collective name for two outlet glaciers on the northwestern (Brækur vestri) and 

northern (Brækur eystri) margin of EIRÍKSJÖKULL (figs. 5, 30). Brókarjöklar

is an alternative collective name (ÁFÍ 2004, p. 288). From field work carried out 

during the summer of 1898, Thoroddsen (1911, p. 27; 1915, p. 80) gave the names 

Eystri Brækur and Vestri Brækur (now alternative spelling) to the two Brækur, each 

of which bifurcates into two lobes. The westernmost Brækur is shown as Brækur on 

AB45 (1968), AÍ (1981), and AK5 (1988). C761 (1714I) refers to Brækur eystri as 

Brækur, although it should be labeled Brækur vestri. Named by Thoroddsen (1911, 

p. 27; 1915, p. 80) for its form similar to long-legged breeches (Icelandic, brækur).

Brækur eystri Langjökull Group 64°48′N., 20°23′W.

Double-lobed outlet glacier, the (northern) easternmost one, of Brækur or Brókarjöklar (ÁFÍ 2004, p. 288), the collective name for the two outlet glaciers. Eystri 

Brækur is an alternative spelling. Brækur eystri descends from the northern margin 

of EIRÍKSJÖKULL (figs. 5, 30); in 2005, it consisted of two parts separated from 

EIRÍKSJÖKULL. Named by Thoroddsen (1911, p. 27; 1915, p. 80) for its form 

similar to long-legged breeches (Icelandic, brækur).

Figure 28. Oblique aerial photograph of the Brókarjökull outlet glacier on 28 September 2002. View looking west toward the southern margin 

of the VATNAJÖKULL ice cap. The upper part of the Breiðamerkurjökull outlet glacier (fig. 26) and the Esjufjöll nunataks are in the background. 

Photograph no. 26649v by O.S., NEA.
62 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

0 5 10 KILOMETERS

16°30'W 16°W 15°30'W

64°40'N

A

B

Figure 29. A, Enlargement of part 

of an IRS-1D false-color composite 

satellite image of Brúarjökull, a 

lobate surge-type outlet glacier on the 

northern margin of VATNAJÖKULL, on 

25 July 2000. Dyngjujökull, a surgetype outlet glacier, and Kverkjökull

are on the left, Eyjabakkajökull, 

another surge-type outlet glacier, is on 

the right. Indian Remote Sensing (IRS) 

satellite image courtesy of the National 

Land Survey of Iceland. 

B, Oblique aerial photograph of 

Brúarjökull, a surge-type outlet 

glacier on the northern margin of 

the VATNAJÖKULL ice cap, on 

3 September 2005. View looking 

to the southwest toward Kverkfjöll 

(right background) across the lobate 

terminus. Photograph no. 30541v by 

O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 63

Brækur vestri Langjökull Group 65°48′N., 20°26′W.

Double-lobed outlet glacier, the westernmost one, of Brækur or Brókarjöklar (ÁFÍ 

2004, p. 288), the collective name for two outlet glaciers. Brækur vestri descends 

from the western margin of EIRÍKSJÖKULL (figs. 5, 31). Vestri Brækur is an 

alternative spelling. Named by Thoroddsen (1911, p. 27; 1915, p. 80) for its form 

similar to long-legged breeches (Icelandic, brækur).

Bröndujökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°28.4′N., 18°25′W.

Twin cirque glaciers at the head of Brandi valley, Eyjafjörður, northern Iceland 

(figs. 8A, C, 32). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 37) as “Brandárjökull” (misspelled placename). Shown as Glacier 05/G/12 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). 

Named for the Branda river.

Bungujökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°38.8′N., 18°16.6′W.

Easternmost mountain glacier in the Vindheimajökull glacier group, Tröllaskagi 

(figs. 8A, C, 33). Cited by Häberle (1991, p. 185). Shown on map in Häberle (1991, 

p. 105) as glacier no. 26. Named for the Bunga peak.

Figure 30. Oblique aerial photograph of the Brækur eystri outlet glacier on 22 July 1999. View looking south at the EIRÍKSJÖKULL ice cap at 

three of its outlet glaciers: Þorvaldsjökull (left), Klofajökull (center) with its distinctive terminal and lateral moraines, and Brækur eystri (right). 

Part of Brækur vestri is visible in the background on the extreme right. Photograph no. 22682v by O.S., NEA.
64 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Bröndujökull

Melrakkadalsjökull Hóladalsjökull

Syðri-Króksárjökull

Syðri-Króksárjökull

Figure 31. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Brækur vestri outlet glacier on 

15 September 2003. View looking east at 

the western margin of the EIRÍKSJÖKULL

ice cap. The LANGJÖKULL ice cap is in 

the background. Photograph no. 27606v 

by O.S., NEA.

Figure 32. Oblique aerial photograph of the twin Bröndujökull cirque glaciers on 6 September 2000. View looking west toward the head of the 

Brandi Valley. The Hóladalsjökull mountain glacier is in the right-middle background. Just beyond the ridge, between Bröndujökull and Hóladalsjökull, 

are the two Syðri-Króksárjökull mountain glaciers. In the upper left is the Melrakkadalsjökull mountain glacier. Photograph no. 24095h by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 65

Búrfellsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°49′N., 18°42.5′W.

Surge-type cirque glacier in Svarfaðardalur, Tröllaskagi (figs. 8A, C, 34). Cited 

in ÁFÍ 1973 (p. 127), Escritt (n.d. p. 35), and by Stötter (1991, p. 56). Shown as 

Glacier 05/D/12 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.), and on map in 

Stötter (1991, fig. 21) as glacier no. 36. Named for the Búrfell farmstead.

Bægisárjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°35.1′N., 18°22′W.

Mountain glacier in Hörgárdalur, Tröllaskagi, which is known to surge (figs. 8A, 

C, 33, 35). Cited in Ahlmann (1937, p. 222), Einarsson (1942, p. 9), Steindórsson 

(1949, p. 32), and Escritt (1975, p. 60). Shown on the following maps: AÍ4 (1966), 

AK4 (1988), AB63 (1975), C761 (1916II), C762 (5823I), Glacier 05/F/23 on maps 

in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.), on map in Häberle (1991, p. 105) as 

glacier no. 18, and on location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 11). Named for the Bægisá 

farmstead.

Bægisárjökull

Fossárjökull

Lambárdalsjökull

Kambsárjökull

H ú s á r j ö k u l l

Bungujökul l

Figure 33. Oblique aerial photograph of the Vindheimajökull group of mountain glaciers. View looking to the west. From left to right: Bungujökull, 

Fossárjökull, Húsárjökull, and Kambsárjökull. The Lambárdalsjökull valley glacier on the north side of Kerling Mountain is in the left background. 

The Bægisárjökull surge-type cirque glacier is in the right background. Photograph no. 24080h by O.S., NEA.
66 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Bægisárjökull

Glerárdalsjökull

Lambárdalsjökull

Lambárdalsjökull

Lambárjökull

Figure 34. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Búrfellsjökull surge-type cirque 

glacier on 15 September 2003 in the midst 

of a surge event. The Teigardalsjökull

surge-type cirque glacier is on the left. View 

looking to the south. These cirque glaciers 

are two of the smallest surge-type glaciers 

known in the world. Photograph no. 27696v 

by O.S., NEA.

Figure 35. Oblique aerial photograph of the Bægisárjökull surge-type glacier on 6 September 2000. View looking to the southeast toward 

the Kerling Mountain in the left background with the Lambárdalsjökull valley glacier on the top left. The Lambárjökull mountain glacier is in the 

right center. The Glerárdalsjökull cirque glacier is in the middle background. The Lambárdalsjökull cirque glacier is on the far right. Photograph 

no. 24077h by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 67

D

Deildardalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°50.4′N., 18°58.5′W.

Mountain glacier across the watershed between Deildardalur in Skagafjörður and 

Svarfaðardalur in Tröllaskagi (figs. 8A, C, 36, 82). Seljadalsjökull is an alternative name. Noted by Ólafsson [1772 (1975, v. 2, p. 5)], Pálsson [1795, §22 (2004, 

p. 105)], and Erlendsson [1839 (1954, p. 133, 140)]. Cited by Gadde [1857 (1976, 

p. 132, 133)], Kålund [1877 (1984, v. III, p. 64)], and Thoroddsen (1906, p. 207). 

Shown on the following maps: AB62, C761 (1816I, 1916IV), C762 (5824IV). 

Named for the Deildardalur valley.

DRANGAJÖKULL Vestfjarðajöklar 66°14′N., 22°23′W.

Ice cap located on the Vestfirðir peninsula in northwestern Iceland (figs. 7A, 37A, B). 

The plateau ice cap has five named outlet glaciers, three of which are surge-type: 

Kaldalónsjökull, Leirufjarðarjökull, Ljótarjökull, Reykjarfjarðarjökull, and 

Þaralátursjökull, and one internal ice dome, “JÖKULBUNGA.” Drangajökull 

is noted by Magnússon [1702–14 (1955, p. 77 and 79)], Ólafsson [1749 (1957, 

p. 187)], Magnússon [1749 (1957, p. 204)], Ólafsson [1772 (1975, v. 1, p. 222)], 

Olavius [1780 (1964, v. 1, p. 157)], and described by Pálsson [1795, §20 (2004, 

p. 104)]. DRANGAJÖKULL first appeared on Knopf’s 1733 map (Carte over 

Ísafiords og Strande Sysseller, Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 144). Its general outline 

was first mapped by Gunnlaugsson (UÍ4; Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 256). Cited by 

Thoroddsen (1892, p. 119). Shown on the following maps: AB21 (1915), AÍ1, AK1, 

FB21N.A. and S.A., GMIP, GMIT, JÍB, JÍK1, NCOI, UÍ4, C762 (5425I, II), sérkort 

Göngukort yfir Hornstrandir (1997), and on location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 5). 

No outlet glacier names are shown on any of these maps, however. Named for the 

Drangar farmstead.

D e i l d a r d a l s j ö k u l l

Unadalsjökull

Figure 36. Oblique aerial photograph of the Deildardalsjökull mountain glacier on 6 September 2000. View looking to the east. Deildardalsjökull

is on the right, and the Unadalsjökull mountain glacier is on the left. Photograph no. 24004v by O.S., NEA.
68 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

B

0 5 KILOMETERS

66°10'N

22°30'W 22°W

A

Figure 37. A, SPOT satellite image 

of the DRANGAJÖKULL ice cap on 

16 August 2004. SPOT-5 image© 

57052130408161403201A from SPOT 

Image Corp., Chantilly, Va. Used with 

permission. 

B, Oblique aerial photograph of 

DRANGAJÖKULL on 19 August 1991. 

Photograph no. 2207© from the National 

Land Survey of Iceland. Used with 

permission.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 69

Dyngjuhnjúksjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°44.8′N., 18°31.1′W.

Alternative name for part of the Tungudalsjökull mountain glacier, Hörgárdalur, 

Tröllaskagi, northern Iceland. Cited by Häberle (1991, p. 186), who uses YtriTungudalsjökull. Named for the Dyngjuhnjúkur peak.

Dyngjujökull Vatnajökull Group 64°49′N., 16°46′W.

Surge-type outlet glacier on the northern margin of VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 

29A, 38A, B, 188). Kistufellsjökull is an alternative name. First shown on Pálsson’s 

[1795, Tab. I (2004, p. 40, 47)] 1794 map of KLOFAJÖKULL or VATNAJÖKULL

as Dýngjujökull. Cited by Thoroddsen (1892, p. 125). Shown on the following 

maps: GMIT, JÍK5, JÍB, AÍ8 (1976), AK8 (1997), AB (75, 76, 85, 86), C762 

(5920I, 5921II, 6020IV, 6021III), and C761 (2014I, II; 2114III, IV). Named for the 

Trölladyngja lava shield volcano.

Dýjafjallshnjúksjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°44.8′N., 18°31.1′W.

Alternative name for part of the Tungudalsjökull mountain glacier [Häberle, 1991, 

p. 186, uses Ytri-Tungudalsjökull], Hörgárdalur, Tröllaskagi. Cited by Häberle 

(1991, p. 186). Named for the Dýjafjallshnjúkur peak.

Dýjajökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°42′N., 18°37′W.

Alternative name for Tungudalsjökull, a mountain glacier in Tröllaskagi, northern 

Iceland. Described by Escritt (1977, p. 59). Shown as Glacier 05/F/2 on maps in 

Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Name derived from Dýjafjallshnjúkur peak.

Dýjajökull* Norðurland 65°45′N., 18°32′W.

Snow patch on the plateau by Dýjafjallshnjúkur, Tröllaskagi (table 11). Cited by 

Häberle (1991, p. 185). Name derived from the Dýjafjallshnjúkur peak.

Dökkurðarjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°49′N., 15°36′W.

Mountain glacier, one of two parallel glaciers conjoined along part of their lateral 

margins, on the northwest flank of Snæfell (figs. 2C, 15, 29A). Shown on Jenning’s 

(1952) 1937 map of Snæfell as C (see Thorarinsson, 1964, p. 71). The ablation area 

is covered with dark-colored debris, for which it is named. Named by Hjartarson 

(2000, p. 2).

E

Eilífsdalsjökull* Norðurland 66°04′N., 18°15′W.

Snow patch in Norðurland on east side of Eyjafjörður north-northwest of Kaldbakur 

(table 11). Cited in ÁFÍ 2000 (p. 151; Eilífsárdalsjökull* is an alternative name 

given in the index on p. 292). Named for the Eilífsárdalur gully.

EIRÍKSJÖKULL Langjökull Group 64°48′N., 20°28′W.

64°45′N., 20°20′W.

Ice cap in west-central Iceland (figs. 5, 30, 39, 115, 143, 194). EIRÍKSJÖKULL is 

named for a fugitive robber named Eiríkur who got away from pursuers by scaling 

Eiríksnípa on the northwestern slope of EIRÍKSJÖKULL [Pálsson, 1795, §17 

(2004, p. 90)]. It has five named outlet glaciers: (Brækur eystri, Brækur vestri), 

Klofajökull (Stórijökull), Þorvaldsjökull, and Ögmundarjökull. It is cited in 

Hellismanna saga (Jónsson, 1948, 1953); Magnússon [1702–1714 (1955, p. 99)] 

includes EIRÍKSJÖKULL in his Chorographica Islandica; and is noted by 
70 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

B

17°W 16°30'W

0 5 10 KILOMETERS

64°40'N

A

Figure 38. A, Landsat 3 RBV image of 

the Dyngjujökull surge-type outlet glacier 

on 9 August 1978. Landsat 3 RBV image 

30157-11572-A from USGS, EROS Data 

Center, Sioux Falls, SD 57198. 

B, Oblique aerial photograph of Dyngjujökull, 

a surge-type outlet glacier on the northern 

margin of the VATNAJÖKULL ice cap on 

27 September 1977. View looking southsoutheast across the lobate outlet glacier 

during a surge event toward the glacierized 

Kverkfjöll central volcano and the Kverkjökull 

outlet glacier. Photograph no. 3413h by 

O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 71

Ólafsson [1772 (1975, v. 2, p. 156)]. It is shown on a 1752 map by Niels Horrebow 

(Sigurðsson, 1978, p. 157) as Ericus Iökull and on NCOI as Eireks=Iökull. 

Pálsson’s [1795, Tab. IV (2004, p. 99)] 1792 map of LANGIJÖKULL shows 

EYRÍKSJÖKULL. UÍ1 (Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 256), GMIP, and GMIT, all show 

EÝRÍKSJÖKULL. Thoroddsen (1892, p. 120, 122) cites EIRÍKSJÖKULL. Shown 

on the following maps: AB45 (1968), AÍ5 (1988), AK5 (1996), and C761 (1714I). 

BALLJÖKULL is an ancient name for EIRÍKSJÖKULL that is cited in several 

sagas from the 14th century, including Bárðar saga Snæfellsáss, Grettis saga, and 

Ármanns saga (Jónsson, 1948, 1953). Another historic name for EIRÍKSJÖKULL

is BLÁFELLSJÖKULL.

Emstrujökull Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°45′N., 19°13′W.

Name for the northwest side of MÝRDALSJÖKULL adjacent to the Emstrur 

common for which it is named (figs. 3A, 150). Shown by Pálsson [1795, Tab. II 

(2004, p. 77)] on his 1795 map of EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL as an alternative name 

for Botnjökull on the western part of the modern MÝRDALSJÖKULL. Also noted 

by Jónsson [(1840 (1968, p. 56)]. 

Entujökull Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°45′N., 19°18′W.

Outlet glacier on the northwestern margin of MÝRDALSJÖKULL (figs. 3A, 40, 

150). Cited in J7 (p. 49) and Einarsson (1974, p. 46) shown on JÍK6, JÍB, JÍN6, 

AK6, C761 (1812I, II), and on sérkort Landmannalaugar-Þórsmörk (1985). Named 

for a folklore person Enta. Possibly related to Old English ent (giant) (Einarsson, 

1952) or Anti, a nickname for Arnþór (Magnússon, 1989).

Esjufjallajökull Vatnajökull Group 64°11′N., 16°31′W.

One of three named ice streams described by Sigbjarnarson (1971, fig. 1, p. 51) 

comprising the four ice streams of the Breiðamerkurjökull outlet glacier of 

VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 26A, B, 188). It has a history of surging. Named for the 

Esjufjöll nunataks.

Figure 39. Oblique aerial photograph of 

the EIRÍKSJÖKULL ice cap viewed from 

the north on 2 November 1990. Part of the 

LANGJÖKULL ice cap is in the middle 

background. Photograph no. 12132 by 

O.S., NEA.
72 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Eyfirðingajökull	 Hofsjökull Group	 64°57′N., 18°57′W.

Historic name for the northwestern part of HOFSJÖKULL (figs. 4A, 86). Noted 

by Magnússon in his Chorographica Islandica [1702–1714 (1955, p. 44)]. Name 

derived from Eyfirðingavegur, a route that passed by the north and northwestern 

margin of Hofsjökull.

Eyjabakkajökull Vatnajökull Group 64°42′N., 15°33′W.

Surge-type outlet glacier on the northeastern margin of VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 

29A, 41, 188). Fljótsdalsjökull is an alternative historic name. Cited by Thoroddsen 

(1911, p. 45). Shown on the following maps: GMIT, JÍB, AÍ8 (1972), AK8 (1997), 

AB95 (1955), C762 (6121III), and on location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 9). Named 

for the Eyjabakkar marsh area.

Figure 40. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Entujökull outlet glacier on 

4 August 1999. View looking to the 

east toward the western margin of the 

MÝRDALSJÖKULL ice cap. The terminus 

of the outlet glacier is covered by debris 

mostly composed of tephra (airborne 

volcanic ejecta). Part of the terminus of 

the Sléttjökull surge-type outlet glacier is 

visible on the left side of the photograph. 

Photograph no. 22783v by O.S., NEA.

Figure 41. Oblique aerial photograph of the 

Eyjabakkajökull surge-type outlet glacier on 

25 July 1973 during a surge event. Photograph 

by R.S.W., USGS.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 73

EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°49′N., 19°47′W.

63°31′N., 18°47′W.

Historic alternative name of MÝRDALSJÖKULL, probably including the modern 

EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL ice cap (figs. 3A, B). Cited in Njáls saga from the latter 

part of the 13th century (Jónsson, 1953, p. 294, 298, 388, 401), Safn til sögu Íslands

[1722 (1907–1915, p. 228)], Stephensen [1856 (1968, p. 4)], Jónsson [1840 (1968, 

p. 52)]. Named for the Eyjafjöll mountain massif.

EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°40′N., 19°45′W.

63°35′N., 19°27′W.

Ice cap in southern Iceland (figs. 3B, 11, 42). It has several named outlet 

glaciers: Akstaðajökull, Gígjökull (Falljökull), Hvannárjökull, Kaldaklifsjökull

(Kaplaskarðsjökull) Seljavallajökull (Tungugilsjökull?), and Steinsholtsjökull. 

It is one of the oldest named glaciers in Iceland; it is named for the mountain 

massif upon which it lies, Eyjafjöll. Cited first in Njáls saga (Jónsson, 1948, 

1953), which was written about 1280, but the saga refers to what is now known 

as MÝRDALSJÖKULL. The local residents on the western side used the name 

EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL to encompass EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL, Sólheimajökull, 

and MÝRDALSJÖKULL. Magnússon [1702–1714 (1955, p. 31; “Mýrdalsjökull, 

Sólheimajökull og Eyjafjallajökull er eitt.”]. Cited by Oddsson [1638 (1942, 

p. 101)], Magnússon and Vídalín (1702–1712, v. 1 p. 35, 44), Ólafsson [1772 

(1975, v. 2, p. 93)], Pálsson [1795, §16; Tab. II (2004, p. 77)], Stephensen [1856 

(1968, p. 3)], and Jónsson [(1840 (1968, p. 52)]. Shown on the following maps: 

Abraham Ortelius (Guðbrandur Þorláksson) Theatrum orbis terrarum (1590; 

Sigurdsson, 1978, ff p. 16); Mercator (1595; Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 24), which 

includes Eiapialla hökel, Midals hökel, and Solheima hökel; Þórður Þorláksson 

(1688; Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 801), which includes Eyafiallajökůl, Miðalsjokůl, 

and Solheimajökůl. Knopf’s 1731 map shows Eiefells Iokůll and his 1733 map, 

Eiefell Iokůl (Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 144). On NCOI, it is shown as Eyafialla 

Iökull. All subsequent maps, starting with UÍ1 (Sigurðsson, 1978 ff p. 256), show 

EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL: GMIP, GMIT, JÍB, JÍK, JÍN6, AÍ6, AK6, AB58, 

FB58 S.V., C762 (5717I, IV), C761 (1812II, III), sérkort LandmannalaugarÞórsmörk (1985), and on location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 8). Cited by 

Thoroddsen (1892, p. 123) as EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL (or HÁJÖKULL) and 

EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL (1906, p. 182).

0 5 KILOMETERS

63°45'N

63°30'N 19°45'W 19°30'W

Figure 42. Enlargement of Landsat 

1 MSS false-color composite image of 

the EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL ice cap on 

19 August 1973. Landsat 1 MSS image 

1392-12191 from the USGS, EROS 

Data Center, Sioux Falls, SD 57198. 
74 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Eyvindstungnajökull Vatnajökull Group 64°15′N., 15°48′W.

A distributary outlet glacier from the southern margin of Skálafellsjökull, an outlet 

glacier on the southeastern part of VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 26A, 43, 77, 188). 

Sultartungnajökull, Sultartungujökull, and Hálsajökull are alternative names. Shown 

on location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 9). Named for the Eyvindstungur grazing area.

Eyvindstungnajökull

S k á l a f e l l s j ö k u l l

Figure 43. Oblique aerial photograph of 

the Eyvindstungnajökull distributary outlet 

glacier on 28 September 2002. View looking 

to the north across the Skálafellsjökull outlet 

glacier in the background toward the southern 

margin of the VATNAJÖKULL ice cap. 

Photograph no. 26668v by O.S., NEA.

F

Falljökull Vatnajökull Group 63°59′N., 16°47′W.

Tributary outlet glacier that merges with Virkisjökull under a debris cover on the 

western margin of ÖRÆFAJÖKULL on the southern part of VATNAJÖKULL

(figs. 2A, 26A, 44, 188). Magnússon (1702–1714 [1955, p. 17]) refers to 

Falljökulskvísl. Cited by Thoroddsen (1911, p. 60) as Virkisjökull or Falljökull and 

“úr Virkisjökli koma Falljökulskvísl...” (Thoroddsen, 1911, p. 60). Pálsson [1795, 

§14 (2004, p. 64)] refers to Virkisjökull and Falljökulskvísl. On maps AB87 (1935) 

and FB87SV (1905), AÍ9 (1952), JÍN9, and C762 (6018IV), only Falljökull is 

shown. On AÍ9 (1971, 1981) and AK9 (1997), Falljökull is shown as the main outlet 

glacier, with Virkisjökull merging into it; on AB87 (1972) and on AB87/88, the 

map on the reverse of sérkort Skaftafell (1991), Virkisjökull is shown as the main 

outlet glacier, with Falljökull merging into it. Cited in ÁFÍ 1937 (p. 18). Shown on 

location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 9). Named for the steepness of the outlet glacier.

Falljökull Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°40′N., 19°38′W.

Alternative name for Gígjökull. Cited by Steingrímsson [1788 (1907–1915, p. 191), 

and Sighvatsson [1845 (1968, p. 75). Shown on the following maps: AB58 (1964), 

FB58 S.V. (1957), and AÍ6 (1973, 1981).

Falljökull vestari Vatnajökull Group 63°59′N., 16°48′W.

Alternative name of Virkisjökull on the western margin of ÖRÆFAJÖKULL on 

the southern part of VATNAJÖKULL. Cited by Eyþórsson (1934, p. 97).
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 75

Fannborgarjökull Hofsjökull Group	 64°39′N., 19°15′W.

Mountain glacier east of Fannborg in Kerlingarfjöll (figs. 4B, 45). Named for the 

Fannborg mountain peak by Jón Eyþórsson and Steinþór Sigurðsson (ÁFÍ 1942, 

p. 19, 32).

Fellsárjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°10′N., 16°08′W.

Mountain glacier south of Þverártindsegg that is part of an ice mass on the 

southeastern margin of VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 26A, 46). Þverártindsjökull, 

Fellsjökull, and Bríkurjökull are alternative names. Shown on location map 

(Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 9). Named for the Fellsá river.

Figure 44. Oblique aerial photograph of the 

Falljökull outlet glacier on 28 September 2002. 

View looking to the east toward the western 

margin of the ÖRÆFAJÖKULL internal 

ice cap. Falljökull is on the right; the 

Virkisjökull outlet glacier is on the left. 

Photograph no. 26631v by O.S., NEA.

Botnajökull Fannborgarjökull

Jökulkinn Langafönn Loðmundarjökull eystri

Loðmundarjökull vestri

Mænisfönn Mænisjökull

Figure 45. Oblique aerial photograph of the Fannborgarjökull mountain glacier on 23 August 1998. View looking to the south at the Kerlingarfjöll 

central volcano. Mountain glaciers visible, from left to right, are as follows: Loðmundarjökull eystri, Botnajökull, Loðmundarjökull vestri, 

Jökulkinn, Fannborgarjökull, Langafönn, Mænisjökull, and Mænisfönn. Photograph no. 980823-1-17 by O.S., NEA.
76 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Fellsjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°07′N., 16°11′W.

Eastern part of Breiðamerkurjökull (figs. 2A, 26A) adjacent to the Fell farmstead 

for which it is named. Cited by Pálsson [1794 (1945, p. 358)]. 

Fellsjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°10′N., 16°08′W.

Alternative name of Fellsárjökull. Thoroddsen (1911, p. 50) refers to “þrír eða fjórir 

litlir skriðjöklar” [“three or four small glaciers”] emanating from Þverártindsjökull, 

but he only gives one a name: Fellsjökull. Also cited by Thoroddsen (1906, p. 197–198). 

Named for the Fell farmstead.

Féeggstaðadalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°41.5′N., 18°43′W.

Small mountain glacier at the head of Féeggstaðadalur valley, for which it is named, 

Tröllaskagi (figs. 8A, C, 47). Cited by Häberle (1991, p. 185). Shown on map 

(Häberle, 1991, p. 105) as glacier no. 10.

Figure 46. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Fellsárjökull mountain glacier on 

28 September 2002. View looking to the 

north-northwest toward the upper reaches 

of Breiðamerkurjökull, a surge-type 

outlet glacier on the southern margin of 

the VATNAJÖKULL ice cap. The Esjufjöll 

nunataks are in the background on the left; 

the Kverkfjöll central volcano is in the distant 

background. Þverártindsjökull is a collective 

name for all the mountain glaciers around 

Þverártindsegg (right center). Photograph 

no. 26645v by O.S., NEA.

Féeggstaðadalsjökull

Figure 47. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Féeggstaðadalsjökull cirque glacier 

on 6 September 2000. View looking to the 

northwest. The head of Skíðadalur is in the 

right background beyond the divide with the 

head of Féeggstaðadalur in right foreground. 

Photograph no. 24056v by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 77

Fjallsjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°01′N., 16°25′W.

Outlet glacier on the eastern margin of ÖRÆFAJÖKULL on the southern part of 

VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 26A, B, 48, 188). Named for the historic Fjall farmstead by Flosi Björnsson and Jón Eyþórsson (ÁFÍ 1937, p. 33). The two eastwardflowing outlet-glacier lobes, which are separated by the Ærfjall nunatak, were 

historically known as Hrútárjökull. As the terminus of Hrútárjökull receded, which 

Thoroddsen (1911, p. 54) referred to as “Hrútárjöklar tveir,” two names were given 

to Hrútárjökull: Fjallsjökull on the north, and Hrútárjökull on the south, now the 

smaller lobe of the two. Hrútárjökull eystri, Eystri-Hrútárjökull (Thoroddsen, 1911, 

p. 55), and Ærfjallsjökull are alternative names. Misspelled as Fjallsárjökull in J43 

(1995, p. 66). Shown on AÍ9 (1976, first shown), AK9 (1997), AB87 (1972) and 

sérkort Skaftafell AB87/88 (1991). Shown on location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 9).

Fláajökull Vatnajökull Group 64°20′N., 15°34′W.

Outlet glacier on the southeastern margin of VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 26A, 49, 

188). Alternative historic names are Mýrajökull, Hólmsárjökull, and Hólsárjökull. 

Cited in Bergsson [1839 (1997, p. 108, 111)], Thoroddsen (1911, p. 49), and ÁFÍ 

1937 (p. 45). Shown on JÍN9, JÍB, AÍ9 (1976), AK9 (1997), AB96, FB 96 S.A., 

C762 (6120III, 6119IV), and location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 9). The name is 

probably named for Flár (slopes) of which Fremriflár and Framflár (ÁFÍ 1993, 

p. 165) are still known.

Fljótajökull Norðurlandsjöklar

Historic name, probably for some of the mountain glaciers in the Fljót district 

(fig. 8C), for which it is named. Cited by Oddsson [1638 (1917, p. 62; 1942, 

p. 104)].

Figure 48. Oblique aerial photograph of the Fjallsjökull outlet glacier on 10 September 1986. View looking to the west toward the summit of 

the ÖRÆFAJÖKULL internal ice cap, at the Hrútárjökull outlet glacier (on the left), which merges with Fjallsjökull (on the right) below the Ærfjall 

nunatak. Prominent ogives are evident on Fjallsjökull, which calves into Fjallsárlón, a proglacial lake. Icebergs are visible in Breiðárlón, on the right 

edge of the photograph. Photograph no. 8840h by O.S., NEA.
78 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Fljótsdalsjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°42′N., 15°33′W.

Historic name for Eyjabakkajökull (figs. 2A, 41). Cited by Olavius [1780, (1965, 

v. 2, p. 114)] and Pálsson [1795, §12 (2004, p. 48; see also Endnote No. 125, 

p. 160)]. See also Pálsson’s 1794 map of KLOFAJÖKULL or VATNAJÖKULL) 

[1795, Tab. I (2004, p. 40)]. Named for the Fljótsdalur valley.

FLJÓTSJÖKULL Vatnajökull Group 64°48′N., 18°01′W.

64°42′N., 17°49′W.

Alternative name for TUNGNAFELLSJÖKULL. Cited in ÁFÍ 1967 [noted 

in autumn of 1845 (1967, p. 64)], Kålund [1877 (1984, v. IV, p. 114)], and by 

Thoroddsen (1906, p. 205; 1911, p. 47–48; and 1913, p. 355). Named for the 

Skjálfandafljót river.

Fljótsjökull Vatnajökull Group

Historic name, possibly for the northeastern part of VATNAJÖKULL. Cited by 

Oddsson [1638 (1942, p. 103)]. Named for Lagarfljót river.

Flosajökull Langjökull Group 64°42′N., 20°22′W.

Outlet glacier on the western margin of LANGJÖKULL (figs. 5, 50, 139). 

Named by Thoroddsen (1906, p. 179) after the Flosaskarð pass, west of the outlet 

glacier.

Flögujökull Vatnajökull Group 63°57′N., 16°44′W.

Alternative name for Kotárjökull. Cited by Olavius [1780) (1965, v. 2, p. 224)] who 

drew it from information provided by Jón Þorláksson, a pastor at Sandfell in Öræfi; 

Jón Þorláksson wrote a manuscript about the 1727 eruption of ÖRÆFAJÖKULL. 

It is possible that the F is a mistaken substitution of S because Slaga is the name of 

a mountain in front of the glacier, hence, the correct name should be “Slögujökull” 

(Sigurður Björnsson, verbal commun., 2002).

Figure 49. Oblique aerial photograph of the Fláajökull outlet glacier on 28 September 2002. View looking to the northwest toward the southeastern 

margin of the VATNAJÖKULL ice cap. The Kverkfjöll central volcano is in the center background. Photograph no. 26672v by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 79

“Forarjökull” Suðurland 63°55′N., 16°47′W.

Jökulhlaup deposits from jökulhlaup from ÖRÆFAJÖKULL. Cited by 

Thorarinsson (1958, p. 33) and in ÁFÍ 1993 (p. 87). See figure 10B and table 10. 

Named for its sedimentary debris.

Forsælujökull Hofsjökull Group 64°38′N., 19°21′W.

Former mountain glacier in Kerlingarfjöll. Named by Jón Eyþórsson and Steinþór 

Sigurðsson in ÁFÍ 1942 (p. 21, 35). Forsælujökull no longer exists as a glacier. 

Named for being in shadow.

Fossárjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°39′N., 18°18′W.

The northernmost mountain glacier of the Vindheimajökull glacier group, which 

flows into Fossárdalur (figs. 8A, C, 33). Vindheimajökull eystri is an alternative 

name. Cited in ÁFÍ 1991 (p. 95) and shown on map (ÁFÍ 1991, p. 72) as contiguous 

with Vindheimajökull. Named for Fossá river.

Fremri-Hagajökull Vatnajökull Group 64°45′N., 17°59′W.

Alternative name for the southernmost of two named outlet glaciers on the western 

margin of TUNGNAFELLSJÖKULL. Shown on C761 (2014III, IV) and AK5 

(1996). Hagajökull fremri is the preferred spelling. Named for Tómasarhagi oasis.

Figure 50. Oblique aerial photograph of the Flosajökull outlet glacier on 15 September 2003. View looking east along Flosaskarð pass. Several 

outlet glaciers descend from the LANGJÖKULL ice cap. Flosajökull, with its set of concentric terminal moraines, is in the center; the Þrístapajökull

outlet glacier is in the center background. The Þursaborg nunatak is visible in LANGJÖKULL; the HOFSJÖKULL ice cap is to the left of Þursaborg in 

the distant background. Photograph no. 27592v by O.S., NEA.
80 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Fremri-Lambárjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°48.2′N., 18°31.6′W.

Cirque glacier on the southern side of the Sælufjall mountain in Þorvaldsdalur, 

northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 51, 118). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 36). Shown as 

Glacier 05/E/05 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Named for the 

Ytri-Lambá creek.

Fremri-Skriðjökull Langjökull Group 64°36′N., 19°55′W.

Alternative name for Suðurjökull. Named for being the southernmost of two outlet 

glaciers embracing Skriðufell. Shown on AÍ5 (1946), AB46 (1945)/AB56 (1977), 

and C762 (5720IV) [Fremri-Skridhjökull].

Fremrijökull* Norðurland 65°27′N., 17°49′W.

Snow patch at the head of Skarðsdalur in Gönguskarð, Bleiksmýrardalur, northern 

Iceland (table 11). Oral communication (2005) from Guðmundur Gunnarsson, local 

farmer. So named because it is the farther away of two (see Heimarijökull*).

Fönn* Austurland 65°09′N., 14°06′W.

Snow patch that covers the divide between Hraundalur and Tungudalur (Rist, 1985) 

at the head of Norðfjörður in eastern Iceland (table 11). Norðfjarðarjökull* is an 

alternative name. Appears with reference to the ancient place-name Fannardalur 

cited in Droplaugarsona saga (in Jónsson 1954, v. X, p. 142, 144). Cited by Olavius 

[1780 (1965, v. 2, p. 124)], Pálsson [1795 (2004, p. 4)], Kålund [1877 (1984, v. IV, 

p. 42)], ÁFÍ 1955 (p. 12), and Thorarinsson (1943, p. 17). The name means snow 

patch.

Fremri-Lambárjökull

Lambárjökull

Þverárjökull Tjarnhólajökull Deildardalsjökull Unadalsjökull

Figure 51. Oblique aerial photograph of the Fremri-Lambárjökull cirque glacier on 6 September 2000. View looking to the west toward FremriLambárjökull (left) and the Lambárjökull mountain glacier (right) in Þorvaldsdalur. The Þverárjökull mountain glacier, Tjarnhólajökull cirque glacier, 

and the Deildardalsjökull and Unadalsjökull mountain glaciers are visible in the background. Photograph no. 24049v by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 81

G

Gagnheiðarjökull* Austurland 64°58′N., 14°19′W.

Snow patch in Fáskrúðsfjörður (Rist, 1985) (table 11). Named for the Gagnheiði 

mountain route.

Galtárhnjúksfönn* Norðurland 65°16′N., 18°26′W. 

Snow patch at the head of Torfufellsdalur (table 11). Cited by Rist (1985). Named 

for the Galtárhnjúkur mountain peak.

Gálgagilsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°34′N., 18°50.6′W. 

Cirque glacier above the Gálgagil gully, for which it is named, Hörgárdalur, 

Tröllaskagi, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 52). Cited by Häberle (1991, p. 185). 

Geitlandsjökull Langjökull Group

Glaciers on the southwestern part of LANGJÖKULL (fig. 5) adjacent to 

the Geitland settlement farmstead, for which it is named. Refers to both 

ÞÓRISJÖKULL and GEITLANDSJÖKULL. Cited in early 14th century 

Grettis saga (Jónsson 1953, v. VI, p. 199) and in late 14th century Bárðar 

saga Snæfellsáss (Jónsson 1953, v. III, p. 319). Appeared on the 1590 Islandia

(Guðbrandur Þorláksson) part of the Theatrum orbis terrarum map by Abraham 

Ortelius (Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 16) as Getlands Iokul; same spelling on Peder 

Resen’s 1680 map of Iceland (Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 80). GEITLANDSJÖKULL

is cited by Oddsson [1638 (1942, p. 103)], Magnússon [1702–14 (1955, p. 99)], 

Ólafsson [1772; (1975, v. 1, p. 51–60)] in 1753, and Thoroddsen (1892, p. 120). 

Eiríksson and Schöning (1771) show it on their NCOI (Geitlands Iökull) (Ólafsson, 

1943, ff p. XV), as does Pálsson [1795, Tab. III (2004, p. 87)] on his 1792 map 

of LANGIJÖKULL (Geitlands-Jökull). Gunnlaugsson’s map [(UÍ1) Sigurðsson, 

1978, ff p. 256] and GMIP show GEITLANDSJÖKULL as including modern 

ÞÓRISJÖKULL. On GMIT, GEITLANDSJÖKULL is shown on the southwestern part of LANGJÖKULL, separated from an unnamed ÞÓRISJÖKULL

by Þórisdalur. All 20th century maps show GEITLANDSJÖKULL: JÍK (1965), 

JÍB (1989), AÍ5 (1988), AK5 (1996), AB46 (1982), C762 (5620IV), and C761 

(1714III). In ÁFÍ 2004 GEITLANDSJÖKULL is shown as the name of the 

southwestern dome of LANGJÖKULL (map on p. 13), and as the name of the 

separate ice cap to the west; ÞÓRISJÖKULL is shown in parentheses. In ÁFÍ 2004 

(p. 180), the two Geitlandsjöklar (ÁFÍ 2004, p. 319) are given as Geitlandsjökull

(nyrðri) and as Geitlandsjökull (syðri). Local people include ÞÓRISJÖKULL in 

GEITLANDSJÖKULL (ÁFÍ 2004 p. 14).

GEITLANDSJÖKULL Langjökull Group 64°36′N., 20°36′W.

Contiguous ice-cap on the southwestern part of LANGJÖKULL (figs. 5, 53, 143, 

195B). On GMIT, GEITLANDSJÖKULL is shown on the southwestern part of 

LANGJÖKULL, separated from an unnamed ÞÓRISJÖKULL by Þórisdalur. 

SUÐURJÖKLAR is a collective historic name for both GEITLANDSJÖKULL

and ÞÓRISJÖKULL. All 20th century maps show GEITLANDSJÖKULL: 

JÍK (1965), JÍB (1989), AÍ5 (1988), AK5 (1996), AB46 (1982), C762 (5620IV), 

and C761 (1714III). Named for Geitland, an early settlement farmstead. In ÁFÍ 

2004, GEITLANDSJÖKULL is shown as the name of the southwestern dome 

of LANGJÖKULL (map on p. 13), and as the name of the separate ice cap to the 

west; ÞÓRISJÖKULL is shown in parentheses. In ÁFÍ 2004 (p. 180), the two

Geitlandsjöklar (ÁFÍ 2004, p. 319) are given as Geitlandsjökull (nyrðri) and as 

Geitlandsjökull (syðri).
82 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Figure 53. Oblique aerial photograph of 

the GEITLANDSJÖKULL internal ice cap on 

15 September 2003. View looking to the east. 

Photograph no. 27587v by O.S., NEA.

Ólafarhnjúksjöklar Gálgagilsjökull

H ö r g á r j ö k u l l

Hjaltadalsjökull

Figure 52. Oblique aerial photograph of the Gálgagilsjökull cirque glacier on 6 September 2000. View looking to the southwest at the head of 

Hörgárdalur in Skíðadalur. From left to right are the remnants of the Ólafarhnjúksjöklar cirque glaciers, Gálgagilsjökull, and the Hörgárjökull mountain 

glacier, which is contiguous with the Hjaltadalsjökull mountain glacier (upper right). Photograph no. 24064v by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 83

Geldfjárskálarjökull* Norðurland 65°36′N., 18°48′W. 

Snow patch in the Geldfjárskál cirque, for which it is named, Hörgárdalur, 

Tröllaskagi, northern Iceland (table 11). Cited by Häberle (1991, p. 185).

Geldingafellsjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°40′N., 15°23′W.

Outlet glacier on the northeastern margin of VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 54, 188). 

Earlier given the name of Blöndujökull by Guttormsson (1998, p. 14; inconsistent 

on map on p. 21) and ÁFÍ 1987 (map on p. 69) but abandoned because of precedent 

namesake of outlet glacier in HOFSJÖKULL. Named by Hjörleifur Guttormsson 

for the Geldingafell mountain.

Figure 54. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Geldingafellsjökull outlet glacier 

on 28 September 2002. View looking 

to the south at the northeastern margin 

of the VATNAJÖKULL ice cap. The 

Vesturdalsjökull outlet glacier extends to the 

left. Photograph no. 26760v by O.S., NEA.

Gígjökull Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°40′N., 19°38′W.

Outlet glacier on the northern margin of EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL (figs. 3B, 42, 

55). Falljökull is an alternative name; Skriðjökull is an historic name. Shown on 

Jarðfræðikort af Eyjafjöllum (Jónsson, 1989), on C761 (1812II, III), and on location 

map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 8). Cited by Ahlmann (1937, p. 221), Eyþórsson (1942, 

p. 126), and in ÁFÍ 1960 (p. 66; listed as new name on p. 120). Named for the 

summit crater on EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL.

Gíslajökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°38.4′N.,18°46.4′W.

Small cirque glacier on the south side of Barkárdalur, Tröllaskagi, northern Iceland 

(figs. 8A, C, 17, 103). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 36) and Häberle (1991, p. 185). 

Shown as Glacier 05/F/07 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Name 

derived from Gíslahnjúkur mountain peak. 

Glámujökull* Vesturland 65°49′N., 23°00′W.

Snow patches on Gláma, Vestfirðir (table 11). Putative glacier shown on maps 

into the 20th century such as GMIT. Noted by Magnússon (1702–1714; 1955, 

p. 77) that “Gláma er jökull” [“Gláma is a glacier”]. Shown on T.H.H. Knopf’s 

1733 map, Carte over Ísafiords og Strande Sysseller, as Glauma Iøkůll and on Siø 

og Land Carte over Island (Norðvesturland) as Glama Iøkůll (Sigurðsson, 1978, 

ff p. 144); on Niels Horrebow’s 1752 map of Iceland as Glama Jökull (Sigurðsson, 
84 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

1978, ff p. 157); the 1761 Insvlæ Islandiæ, Nürnberg map of Iceland as Glauma 

Iokul (Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 160); and on Gunnlaugsson’s map (UÍ4) and GMIP 

as GLÁMUJÖKULL. There is no mention of GLÁMUJÖKULL in Ólafsson [1772 

(1975)]. It is shown on the 1771 edition of NCOI as Glauma Iökull. Pálsson refers 

to the “so-called Gláma or Glámujökull” [1795, §21 (2004, p. 105)]. Thoroddsen 

(1892, p. 118; 1906, p. 173; 1911, p. 16; and 1914a, v. 2, p. 33–34) is uncertain 

about whether or not there is a glacier (GLÁMUJÖKULL) or outlet glaciers on 

Gláma, but he correctly deduces that the absence of glacier rock flour in the streams 

generally signifies the absence of a glacier. Even with his misgivings, however, 

Thoroddsen (1901) still puts GLÁMUJÖKULL on GMIT. Thoroddsen (1892, 

p. 132) and (1906, p. 207) gives 230 km2 as the area of Gláma* [Glámujökull*]; 

Ágúst Böðvarsson (written commun. about 1968, ), in his unpublished “Stærð 

jökla á Islandi,” gave 422 km2 for UÍ4, 225 km2 for GMIT, and 0 km2 for the 

1:500,000-scale Geodætisk Institut map of Iceland (1945, 1963), none of which 

has any quantitative value. Sigurðsson (2004) found no historic evidence for an 

ice cap on Gláma. Area: 4.5 km2 in 1913 for Gláma* (Glámujökull*) according to 

Thorarinsson (1943, p. 17) from FB12 S.A. (1913). Snow patches mapped on the 

1:250,000-scale series C561 (I-Vatneyri), AB12 (1934, 1945), FB12 S.A. (1913), 

and C762 (5324I, II). The name means an area patched with white.

Figure 55. Oblique aerial photograph of the Gígjökull outlet glacier on 4 August 1999. View looking to the south toward the volcanic crater at the 

summit of the EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL ice cap, from which Gígjökull originates. The upper reaches of the Steinsholtsjökull are visible on the left. 

Photograph no. 22789v by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 85

Glerárdalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°33′N., 18°21′W.

Cirque glacier at the head of Glerárdalur, Tröllaskagi (figs. 8A, C, 35, 56, 101, 136). 

Cited by Steindórsson (1949, p. 30, 32), Rist (1985), ÁFÍ 1991 (p. 35), and Escritt 

(n.d., p. 36). Shown as Glacier 05/G/03 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt 

(n.d.). Named for the Glerárdalur valley.

Gljúfurárjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°42.7′N., 18°39.2′W.

Valley glacier at the head of Gljúfurárdalur, Tröllaskagi (figs. 8A, C, 57) (alternative 

spelling Gljúfrárjökull cited in J6 and ÁFÍ 1973 (p. 16)). Cited by Þorsteinsson and 

others (1942, p. 11), by Ahlmann (1937, p. 223), Steindórsson (1949, p. 32), Rist 

(1985), Escritt (1975, p. 60–61), and Stötter (1991, p. 56). Shown on AÍ4 (1966), AK4 

(1988), AB62 (1978), AB63 (1975), C762 (5824III), as Glacier 05/D/29 on maps 

in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.), on map in Stötter (1991, fig. 21) as glacier 

no. 12, and on location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 11). Named for the Gljúfurá river.

Sveipsjökull Glerárdalsjökull

Figure 56. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Glerárdalsjökull cirque glacier on 

15 September 2003. View looking to the 

south at the Glerárdalshnjúkur mountain 

peak. Glerárdalsjökull flows down the north 

side of the Stóristallur Mountain. On the left 

side of the photograph is the Sveipsjökull

cirque glacier. Photograph no. 24087h by 

O.S., NEA.

Figure 57. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Gljúfurárjökull valley glacier on 

15 September 2003. View looking to the 

south toward the head of Gljúrárdalur. 

Photograph no. 27678h by O.S., NEA.
86 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Gljúfursárjökull Vatnajökull Group 63°57′N., 16°40′W.

Outlet glacier on the southern margin of ÖRÆFAJÖKULL, southern part of 

VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 26A, 58, 123, 188). Cited by Eyþórsson (1933, p. 97). 

Shown on location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 9). Named for the Gljúfursá river.

Gloppujökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°46.3′N., 18°43.3′W.

Cirque glacier on the north side of Sveinsstaðafjall mountain, Kóngsstaðadalur 

in Skíðadalur, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 59). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 35) and 

Stötter (1991, p. 56). Shown as Glacier 05/D/18 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and 

Escritt (n.d.), and on map in Stötter (1991, fig. 21) as glacier no. 27. The name is 

probably derived from Gloppufjall mountain, which is some distance to the east.

“GOÐABUNGA” Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°39′N., 19°16′W.

An internal ice dome on the western part of MÝRDALSJÖKULL (figs. 3A, 

124, 180, 183). Named by Eyþórsson (1945b, p. 150, 151, 154) in the tradition of 

Goðaland. Shown on the following maps: JÍK6, JÍN6, J17 (map on p. 239).

Goðalandsjökull Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°39′N., 19°16′W.

Name for the western part of MÝRDALSJÖKULL (figs. 3A, 150) adjacent to 

Goðaland common for which it is named. Cited by Preyer and Zirkel (1862, p. 444), 

Gunnarsson [1877 (1949, p. 226)], Kålund [1877 (1984, v. I, p. 182), Loftsson 

[1880 (1930, p. 191)], Thoroddsen (1892, p. 123), Vigfússon (1892, p. 39), and 

Einarsson (1946, p. 172, 180). Shown on UÍ1, GMIP, and GMIT as the northern part 

of MÝRDALSJÖKULL. Shown on the following maps: AÍ6 (1973), AK6 (1996), 

AB58 (1964), C761 (1812II), and sérkort Landmannalaugar-Þórsmörk (1985).

Gljúfursárjökull

Rótarfjallsjökull

Stigárjökull

Stórhöfðajökull

Gljúfursárjökull

Rótarfjallsjökull

Stigárjökull

Stórhöfðajökull

Figure 58. Oblique aerial photograph of the Gljúfursárjökull outlet glacier on 28 September 2002. View looking to the north at the southern 

margin of the ÖRÆFAJÖKULL internal ice cap at Rótarfjallsjökull (far left), Gljúfursárjökull (left), Stórhöfðajökull (center), and the Stigárjökull 

(right) outlet glaciers. The Rótarfjallshnjúkur and Hnappar nunataks can be seen on the rim of the volcanic crater at the summit of ÖRÆFAJÖKULL. 

Hvannadalshnjúkur, Iceland’s highest peak (2,110 m), is in the center background. Photograph no. 26634v by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 87

Grasárjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°36.9′N.,19°08.3′W.

Mountain glacier in Fremri-Grasárdalur, Hjaltadalur, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 

60). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 35). Shown as Glacier 04/Q/01 on maps in Escritt 

(1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Named for the Grasá creek.

“Grasjökull” Suðurland 63°55′N., 16°47′W.

Jökulhlaup deposits from jökulhlaup from ÖRÆFAJÖKULL. Also known as 

“Grasjöklar.” Cited by Thoroddsen (1906, p. 193), ÁFÍ 1937 (p. 24), ÁFÍ 1979 

(p. 90), ÁFÍ 1993 (p. 87), and Thorarinsson (1958, p. 33). See figure 10B and 

table 10. Named for its vegetation.

Grímslandsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°58.6′N., 17°45.7′W.

Cirque glacier in Flateyjardalsheiði (figs. 8B, C, 61). Named by Tryggvi Stefánsson 

J45 (p. 91). Shown on location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 11). Named for the 

abandoned Grímsland farmstead.

Þverárjökull Kóngsstaðajökul l

Gloppujökul l

Figure 59. Oblique aerial photograph of the Gloppujökull cirque glacier on 6 September 2000. View looking to the southwest along Skíðadalur. 

From left to right: the Kóngsstaðajökull mountain glacier is on the left, an unnamed glacier to its right, Gloppujökull in the center, another unnamed 

glacier and the Þverárjökull mountain glacier on the right. Photograph no. 24031v by O.S., NEA.
88 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

GRÍMSVATNAJÖKULL Vatnajökull Group 64°49′N., 17°42′W.

63°52′N., 15°23′W. 

 Historic alternative name for VATNAJÖKULL (fig. 2A). Cited by Peder Resen 

[1685 (1991, p. 112)] and in Thoroddsen (1914b, v. 3, p. 320–321) with reference to 

Resenii Descriptio Islandiæ. Named for the Grímsvötn volcano.

Grjótárdalsjökull* Norðurland 65°32′N., 18°41′W. 

Snow patch at the head of Grjótárdalur, for which it is named, Hörgárdalur, 

Tröllaskagi (table 11). Cited by Häberle (1991, p. 185).

Grjótárjöklar Vatnajökull Group 64°48′N., 15°35′W.

Two parallel running, debris-covered cirque glaciers (alternatively named 

Dökkurðarjökull and Ljósurðarjökull) (figs. 2C, 15, 29A) on the northwest side of 

Snæfell feeding Grjótá river, for which it is named. Tvíburajöklar is an alternative 

name. Cited by Guttormsson (1998, p. 15).

“Grjótjökull” Suðurland 63°58′N., 16°49′W.

Jökulhlaup deposits from jökulhlaup from ÖRÆFAJÖKULL. Cited by 

Thorarinsson [1958, p. 30, as Grjót (jökulhlaup sediments)] and in ÁFÍ 1993 (p. 85). 

See figure 10B and table 10 in the jökulhlaup deposits section of this compilation. 

Named for its rugged stony surface.

Grasárjökull

Lambárjökull

Figure 60. Oblique aerial photograph of the Grasárjökull cirque glacier on 15 September 2003. View looking to the south. Grasárjökull is in partial 

shadow in the foreground. The Lambárjökull cirque glacier is in the next cirque beyond. Photograph no. 27653v by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 89

Grýtudalsjökull eystri Norðurlandsjöklar 65°48.5′N., 18°44′W.

Cirque glacier at the head of Grýtudalur, Tröllaskagi, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 

62). Eystri-Grýtudalsjökull is an alternative spelling (Stötter, 1991, p. 56). Cited by 

Escritt (n.d., p. 35; 1980, p. 57). Shown as Glacier 05/D/11 on maps in Escritt (1975, 

p. 62) and Escritt (n.d), and on map in Stötter (1991, fig. 21) as glacier no. 33. 

Named for the Grýtudalur valley.

Grýtudalsjökull vestri Norðurlandsjöklar 65°48.4′N., 18°45.7′W. 

Cirque glacier at the head of Grýtudalur, for which it is named, Svarfaðardalur, 

northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 62, 190). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 35). Shown as 

Glacier 05/D/10 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.), and on map in 

Stötter (1991, fig. 21) as glacier no. 34. Vestri-Grýtudalsjökull (Stötter, 1991, p. 56) 

is an alternative spelling.

Grænalónsjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°12′N., 17°28′W.

Outlet glacier in the southwestern part of VATNAJÖKULL that flows toward the 

western shore of the Grænalón ice-dammed lake (figs. 2A, 63, 131A, 188) for which 

it is named. Named by Haukur Jóhannesson (1983, map on p. 87).

Kotajökull Kambsjökull

G r í m s l a n d s j ö k u l l

Figure 61. Oblique aerial photograph of the Grímslandsjökull cirque glacier on 6 September 2000. View looking to the southeast toward 

Grímslandjökull (upper center), the Kambsjökull cirque glacier (right of upper center), and the Kotajökull mountain glacier (behind Kambsjökull), 

Flateyjardalsheiði. Photograph no. 24136v by O.S., NEA.
90 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Grýtudalsjökull eystri Grýtudalsjökull vestri Vatnsdalsjökull

Figure 62. Oblique aerial photograph of the Grýtudalsjökull eystri (left) and Grýtudalsjökull vestri (center) cirque glaciers on 15 September 2003. 

View looking to the south toward the head of the Grýtudalur tributary valley in Svarfaðardalur. The Vatnsdalsjökull mountain glaciers are in the rightmiddle background. Photograph no. 27693h by O.S., NEA.

Figure 63. Oblique aerial photograph of 

Grænalónsjökull on 10 September 1986. 

View looking to the north-northeast during a 

jökulhlaup event from the Grænalón proglacial 

lake, dammed by an unnamed distributary 

glacier from the Skeiðarárjökull outlet glacier 

(lower right) on the southern margin of the 

VATNAJÖKULL ice cap. The Þórðarhyrna 

nunatak is visible in the background. 

Photograph no. 8861v by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 91

Grænavatnsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°36.2′N., 18°43′W. 

Cirque glacier on the north side of Flöguselshnjúkur, Myrkárdalur, Tröllaskagi, 

northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 64). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 36). Häberle (1991, 

p. 185) cites two separate glaciers as Grænavatnsjökull eystri and Grænavatnsjökull 

vestri. Shown as Glacier 05/F/13 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). 

Named for lake Grænavatn.

Grænavatnsjökull

Figure 64. Oblique aerial photograph of 

the Grænavatnsjökull cirque glacier (left) on 

6 September 2000. View looking to the south 

at the Flöguselshnjúkur Mountain with its two 

cirque glaciers. The Kerlingarárjökull cirque 

glacier is on the right. Photograph no. 24061v 

by O.S., NEA.

H

Hafrárdalsjöklar Norðurlandsjöklar 65°43′N., 18°37′W. 

Small mountain glacier and associated snow patches at the head of Hafrárdalur, for 

which it is named, Hörgárdalur, Tröllaskagi. Contiguous with Heiðinnamannajökull. 

Alternative name for Hafrárjökull. Cited by Häberli (1991, p. 185). Shown on map 

(Häberli, 1991, p. 105) as glacier no. 9.

Hafrárjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°43.1′N., 18°36.5′W.

Mountain glacier in Hafrárdalur, Hörgárdalur, Tröllaskagi (figs. 8A, C, 65, 

76). Cited in ÁFÍ 1990 (p. 130). Named for the Hafrá creek. Contiguous with 

Heiðinnamannajökull. Hafrárdalsjöklar is an alternative name that includes 

associated snow patches.

Hafursárjökull Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°32′N., 19°05′W.

Outlet glacier on the southern margin of MÝRDALSJÖKULL that flows into 

Hafursá west of Gvendarfell (figs. 3A, 66, 150). Cited by Thoroddsen (1911, p. 34) 

and Eyþórsson (1945b, p. 156). Named for the Hafursá river.

Hagafellsjökull eystri Langjökull Group 64°29′N., 20°17′W.

Surge-type outlet glacier on the southern margin of LANGJÖKULL (figs. 5, 

67, 139) east of Hagafell (for which they are named), which lies between and 

separates two outlet glacier lobes [Hagafellsjökull (ÁFÍ 1980, p. 9)]. Eystri means 

“more easterly.” Two alternative spellings and names have been used: EystriHagafellsjökull [shown on maps AK5 (1996), JÍB, and C761 (1714II and 1713I] 

and Hagavatnsjökull syðri. Shown on JÍK5 and on location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, 

p. 10). Named for the Hagafell mountain ridge that separates it from Hagafellsjökull 

vestari.
92 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Figure 66. Oblique aerial photograph of the Hafursárjökull outlet 

glacier on 26 July 1996. View looking to the north toward the southern 

margin of the MÝRDALSJÖKULL ice cap. Photograph no. 18249v by 

O.S., NEA.

Figure 65. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Hafrárjökull mountain glacier on 

6 September 2000. View looking to the 

northeast at the head of Hafrárdalur 

in Hörgárdalur. The upper reaches of 

Gljúfurárjökull valley glacier are visible 

in the background on the left. Photograph 

no. 24055v by O.S., NEA.

Figure 67. Oblique aerial photograph of the Hagafellsjökull eystri

surge-type outlet glacier on 12 July 1979. View looking to the northeast 

across the Hagavatn proglacial lake on the southern margin of the 

LANGJÖKULL ice cap. Photograph by R.S.W., USGS.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 93

Hagafellsjökull vestari Langjökull Group 64°29′N., 20°26′W.

Surge-type outlet glacier on the southern margin of LANGJÖKULL (figs. 5, 68, 

139). Alternative names and spellings are Hagafellsjökull vestri (Green, 1952, map 

on p. 12; ÁFÍ 1980, p. 89; and ÁFÍ 2001, p. 205, map on p. 202), Hagafellsjökull 

ytri (JÍK5), Vestri Hagafellsjökull, Vestri-Hagafellsjökull [shown on map in ÁFÍ 

1998 (p. 220, 245) and on JÍB (1988)], and Vestari-Hagafellsjökull [shown on AK5 

(1978, 1988, and 1996); C761 (1714II and 1713I); cited in ÁFÍ 1998 (p. 223, 227, 

photo on p. 93)]. Shown on location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 10). Named for the 

Hagafell mountain ridge that separates it from Hagafellsjökull eystri.

Hagajöklar Vatnajökull Group

Alternative name for two outlet glaciers on the western margin of TUNGNAFELLSJÖKULL. The outlet glaciers are separated by Fagrafell. Cited in ÁFÍ 1963 (p. 42, 

136). Shown on AB75 (1976) and AK5 (1988). The preferred spelling for the 

northernmost Hagajöklar is Hagajökull innri, the southernmost, Hagajökull 

fremri. Note: In southern Iceland, innri means farthest from the sea; fremri means 

closest to the sea. In northern Iceland, both mean farthest from the sea. Named for 

the Tómasarhagi patch of vegatation (oasis) in the Sprengisandur desert.

Hagajökull fremri Vatnajökull Group 64°45′N., 17°59′W.

Preferred spelling for the southernmost outlet glacier on the western margin of 

TUNGNAFELLSJÖKULL (figs. 2B, 69, 182). Fremri-Hagajökull is an alternative spelling. Cited in ÁFÍ 1963 (p. 42). Shown on AÍ5 (1978). Named for the 

Tómasarhagi patch of vegetation (oasis) in the Sprengisandur desert. 

Hagajökull innri Vatnajökull Group 64°46′N., 17°58′W.

Preferred spelling for the northernmost outlet glacier on the western margin of 

TUNGNAFELLSJÖKULL (figs. 2B, 70, 182). Innri-Hagajökull is an alternative 

spelling [Shown on C761 (2014 IV), AÍ5, and AK5 (1996)]. Cited in ÁFÍ 1963 

(p. 42). Shown on AÍ5 (1978). Named for the Tómasarhagi patch of vegetation 

(“oasis”) in the Sprengisandur desert.

Figure 68. Oblique aerial photograph of 

the Hagafellsjökull vestari surge-type outlet 

glacier on 20 June 1999. View looking north 

on the southern margin of the LANGJÖKULL 

ice cap. Photograph no. 22206v by O.S., NEA.
94 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Hagavatnsjökull syðri Langjökull Group 64°29′N., 20°17′W.

Alternative name for Hagafellsjökull eystri. Cited by Eyþórsson (1956a, p. 35). 

Named for the Hagavatn lake.

Hagárdalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°27.3′N., 18°32′W. 

Mountain glacier at the head of Hagárdalur, for which it is named, Djúpidalur, 

Eyjafjörður, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 71). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 37). Shown 

as Glacier 05/G/13 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.).

Hallmundarjökull Langjökull Group 64°45′N., 20°13′W.

Alternative name for Þrístapajökull. Suggested by Hannesson (1927, p. 37). Named 

for the legendary figure Hallmundur. 

Hamarsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°53′N., 18°28′W.

Alternative name for Hálsjökull. Cited by Rist (1976, p. 77). Named for the Hamar 

farmstead.

Hamrajökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°49.3′N., 18°39.1′W. 

Mountain glacier on the northeast side of Hamrahnjúkur, Svarfaðardalur, northern Iceland 

(figs. 8A, C, 72). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 35). Shown as Glacier 05/D/14 on maps in 

Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Named after the Hamrahnjúkur mountain.

Hangandi Hofsjökull Group 64°38′N., 19°13′W.

Mountain glacier in Kerlingarfjöll north of Höllubarmur (figs. 4B, 24). Named by Jón 

Eyþórsson and Steinþór Sigurðsson in ÁFÍ 1942 (p. 33–34). Also shown in perspective 

drawing in ÁFÍ 1942 (ff p. 16). Name means hanging, for its steep setting.

Figure 70. Ground photograph of 

the Hagajökull innri outlet glacier 

on 30 July 2001. View looking to the 

southeast on the western margin of 

the TUNGNAFELLSJÖKULL ice cap. 

Photograph no. 25067 by O.S., NEA.

Figure 69. Ground photograph of 

the Hagajökull fremri outlet glacier 

on 30 July 2001. View looking to the 

southeast on the western margin of 

the TUNGNAFELLSJÖKULL ice cap. 

Photograph no. 25068 by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 95

Hagárdalsjökul l

V a s k á r d a l s j ö k u l l

Kambfellsjökull

Figure 71. Oblique aerial photograph of Hagárdalsjökull cirque glacier on 6 September 2000. View looking to the southwest at the Kambfellsjökull

mountain glacier (far left) and Hagárdalsjökull (right center), Djúpidalur, Eyjafjörður. Vaskárdalsjökull is in the center background. Photograph 

no. 24097m by O.S., NEA.

Figure 72. Oblique aerial photograph of the 

remnants of the Hamrajökull cirque glacier on 

6 September 2000. View looking to the west 

toward the partially shadowed northeastern 

slope of the Hamrahnjúkur mountain peak in 

Skíðadalur. The Teigardalsjökull (middle) and 

Búrfellsjökull (top right) surge-type cirque 

glaciers are in the background. Photograph 

no. 24032v by O.S., NEA.
96 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Hattardalsjökull* Vesturland 65°55′N., 23°05′W.

Snow patch in Hattardalur, for which it is named, Álftafjörður, Vestfirðir, 

northwestern Iceland (table 11). Cited in Rist (1985).

Hattarjökull Hofsjökull Group 64°38′N., 19°20′W.

Remnants of a mountain glacier north of Höttur mountain peak in Kerlingarfjöll 

(figs. 4B, 73). Named for the peak by Jón Eyþórsson and Steinþór Sigurðsson 

(ÁFÍ 1942, p. 21).

Figure 73. Oblique aerial photograph of the 

remnants of the Hattarjökull mountain glacier on 

22 July 1999. View looking to the south at the 

Höttur mountain peak. Photograph no. 22670v 

by O.S., NEA.

“HÁABUNGA” Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°35′N., 19°07′W.

Alternative name for “HÁBUNGA” on southern MÝRDALSJÖKULL. Named 

“HÁBUNGA” by Eyþórsson (1945b, p. 152) for its high elevation. Cited in J17 

(p. 238) and by Björnsson (1978, p. 187–189). Shown on map JÍN6.

“HÁABUNGA” Vatnajökull Group 64°21′N., 17°25′W.

Internal ice dome on the western part of VATNAJÖKULL just southwest of 

Grímsvötn (figs. 2A, 188). “JÖKULBUNGA” is an alternative name. Cited in 

Ahlmann and Thorarinsson (1937, p. 188). Named for being the highest point in 

central VATNAJÖKULL. Shown on the following maps: AÍ6 (1977), AK6 (1996), 

JÍK6, JÍB, JÍN6, AB76 (1977), C761 (2013I), and C762 (5920II).

Háafellsjökull* Vesturland 65°54′N., 21°33′W.

Snow patch in Háafell, for which it is named, Reykjarfjörður, Vestfirðir, northwestern Iceland (Haukur Jóhannesson, oral commun., 2005) (table 11).

Háafjallsjökull* Norðurland 65°34′N., 18°38′W.

Snow patch on the plateau on Háafjall mountain, for which it is named, between 

Öxnadalur and Hörgárdalur, Tröllaskagi (table 11). Cited by Häberle (1991, p. 185).

“HÁBUNGA” Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°35′N., 19°07′W.

Internal ice dome in the southern part of MÝRDALSJÖKULL (figs. 3A, 124, 171, 

180, 183). “HÁABUNGA” is an alternative spelling. Named by Eyþórsson (1945b, 

p. 152, 156) for its high elevation. Shown on map JÍK6.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 97

HÁJÖKULL Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°40′N., 19°45′W.

63°35′N., 19°27′W.

Historic alternative name for EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL (fig. 3B). Cited in Pálsson 

[1795, §16 (2004, p. 78)]. Named for its high elevation.

Hájökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°50.4′N., 18°58.5′W.

Alternative name for Deildardalsjökull. Cited by Escritt (1975, p. 61; and n.d., 

p. 35). Shown as Glacier 05/D/04 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). 

Name is derived from the Hákambur Mountain.

Hálsajökull Vatnajökull Group 64°48′N., 15°33′W.

Alternative name for Sótajökull. Named by Thorarinsson [J14 (p. 70–75), including 

minor annotation to 1937 map of Snæfell by Jennings (1952)]; also shown on map in 

ÁFÍ 1987 (p. 68) and cited on p. 65. Not known for what it was named. Frequently 

misspelled Hálsjökull.

Hálsajökull Vatnajökull Group 64°15′N., 15°48′W.

Alternative name for Eyvindstungnajökull. Named by Thoroddsen (1906, p. 198) 

after Staðarhálsar.

Hálsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°52′N., 18°27.3′W.

Mountain glacier at the head of Hamarsdalur, Tröllaskagi, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 

74). Hamarsjökull is an alternative name. Cited by Escritt (1977, p. 60). Shown on 

C761 (1916I), on map in Escritt (1980, p. 59), as Glacier 05/D/39 on maps in Escritt 

(1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.), and on a location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 11). 

Named for the Háls farmstead.

Háöldujökull Hofsjökull Group 64°50′N., 18°27′W.

A lobate outlet glacier in the eastern part of HOFSJÖKULL defined by surface 

topography during radio-echosounding surveys (figs. 4A, 75, 86, 193). Named by 

Björnsson (1988, p. 64; Map 19, Glacier 1) for the Háalda hill. Anecdotal evidence 

suggests that Háöldujökull may be a surge-type glacier (Björnsson and others, 

2003, p. 85).

Þverárjökull

H á l s j ö k u l l

Figure 74. Oblique aerial photograph of the 

Hálsjökull cirque glacier on 6 September 2000. 

View looking to the south along Hamarsdalur 

at the mountains between Þorvaldsdalur and 

Skíðadalur. The Þverárjökull mountain glacier 

is in the right-center background. Photograph 

no. 24045v by O.S., NEA.
98 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Heiðinnamannajökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°43.5′N., 18°36.5′W.

Mountain glacier at the head of Heiðinnamannadalur, Tröllaskagi, northern Iceland 

(figs. 8A, C, 76, 88). Cited in Escritt (n.d., p. 36), ÁFÍ 1990 (p. 129), and Stötter 

(1991, p. 56, as two glaciers). Shown as Glacier 05/D/30 on maps in Escritt (1975, 

p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.) and on map in Stötter (1991, fig. 21) as glacier nos. 10 and 11. 

Named for arbitrary heathen people or giants (ÁFÍ 1990, p. 63–64).

Heiðnabergsjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°18′N., 15°42′W.

Alternative name for Heinabergsjökull. Cited by Bergsson [1839 (1997, p. 107, 108, 

111, 115)]. Named for the Hei(ð)naberg farmstead.

Heimarijökull* Norðurland 65°28′N., 17°49′W.

Snow patch in Skarðsdalur, Gönguskarð, Bleiksmýrardalur, northern Iceland 

(table 11). Shown on AB 73 (1935 and 1972). So named because it is the closer 

to home of two. The name implies that there is another snow patch called 

Fremrijökull*, at the head of Skarðsdalur.

Figure 75. Oblique aerial photograph of 

the Háöldujökull lobate outlet glacier on 

23 August 1998. View looking to the west 

on the eastern margin of the HOFSJÖKULL

ice cap. The Klakksjökull outlet glacier 

is on the right. Photograph no. 20903h by 

O.S., NEA.

Figure 76. Oblique aerial photograph of 

the Heiðinnamannajökull cirque glacier on 

15 September 2003. View looking to the 

south with the conjoined (two-part cirque 

glacier) Heiðinnamannajökull in the upper 

part of the Heiðinnamannadalur tributary 

valley in Skíðadalur. The Hafrárjökull

mountain glacier, over the ridge in the right 

center, and Lambárdalsjökull mountain 

glacier, over the ridge on the upper left, 

are contiguous with Heiðinnamannajökull. 

Photograph no. 27679h by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 99

Heinabergsjöklar Vatnajökull Group

Historic collective name for the two modern outlet glaciers, Skálafellsjökull and 

Heinabergsjökull, on the southeastern margin of VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 77). 

It referred to a composite outlet glacier before it became separated by retreating 

into two termini separated by Hafrafell. Alternative name of Heinabergsjökull. Cited 

by Thoroddsen (1906, p. 198) who refers to a “westlichen und östlichen Gletscher 

geteilt” of Heinabergsjökull. Named for the Heinaberg farmstead.

Heinabergsjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°18′N., 15°42′W.

Historic name for part of the southeastern margin of VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 

26A), approximately including the modern outlet glaciers of Fláajökull, Viðborðsjökull, Svínafellsjökull, and Hoffellsjökull. Shown on NCOI, UÍ2, GMIP, and 

GMIT. Cited by Ólafsson [1772 (1975, v. 2, p. 86, 110)]. Named for the Heinaberg 

farmstead.

Heinabergsjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°18′N., 15°42′W.

Historic alternative name of Heinabergsjöklar for what are now two outlet glaciers 

separated by Hafrafell, Heinabergsjökull and Skálafellsjökull (figs. 2A, 77). Cited 

by Stefánsson [1746 (1957, p. 9, 12, 19)] and Pálsson [1795 §12 (2004, p. 47; see 

also Endnote no. 118, p. 159)]. Named for the Heinaberg farmstead.

Figure 77. Oblique aerial photograph of the Heinabergsjökull outlet glacier on 28 September 2002. View looking to the northwest on 

the southeastern margin of the VATNAJÖKULL ice cap. The Skálafellsjökull outlet glacier is on the left, with its distributary outlet glacier 

Eyvindstungnajökull on the far left; Heinabergsjökull is on the right. Photograph no. 26673v by O.S., NEA.
100 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Heinabergsjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°18′N., 15°42′W.

Outlet glacier on the southeastern margin of VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 26A, 77, 

188). Eystri-Heinabergsjökull (ÁFÍ 1937, p. 44) and Heinabergsjökull eystri are 

alternative names. Cited in Gadde [1857 (1976, p. 67)]. Jón Eyþórsson (J5, p. 40) 

refers to Heinabergsjökull as the nyrðri jökull of Heinabergsjöklar; in J4 (p. 46), 

he refers to Heinabergsjökull as being composed of syðri jökull (Skálafellsjökull) 

and nyrðri jökull. In J13 (p. 32), Jón Eyþórsson refers to Skálafellsjökull as 

S-glacier and Heinabergsjökull as N-glac [sic]. Cited in Kålund [1877 (1984, 

v. IV, p. 59, 60)], J17 (p. 323) as Heinabergsjökull, with Skálafellsjökull indicated 

as W (Skálf.) [sic] and E (Hafrafell). Two maps (ÁFÍ 1993, p. 123, 148) show 

Heinabergsjökull on both sides of Hafrafell, with Skálafellsjökull as a primary 

distributary and Sultartungnajökull as a minor distributary. Shown on JÍB, JÍN9, 

AÍ9 (1971), AK9 (1997), AB96 (1972), and C762 (6019I, 6119IV, 6120III). A single 

terminus for Heinabergsjökull is shown on FB96 S.A. (1905 and 1941) and on 

AB96 (1945). Named for the Heinaberg farmstead.

Heinabergsjökull eystri Vatnajökull Group 64°18′N., 15°42′W.

Alternative name for Heinabergsjökull. Cited by Thoroddsen (1914b, v. 3, p. 223) 

and in ÁFÍ 1937 (p. 46). Named for the Heinaberg farmstead.

Heinabergsjökull vestri Vatnajökull Group 64°18′N., 15°42′W.

Alternative name for Skálafellsjökull. Cited by Thoroddsen (1914b, v. 3, p. 223), 

Guðmundsson (1972, p. 132) and in ÁFÍ 1993 (p. 146). Vestri-Heinabergsjökull is 

an alternative spelling (ÁFÍ 1993, p. 150). Named for the Heinaberg farmstead.

Heljardalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°49′N., 19°01′W.

Mountain glacier at the northwestern head of Heljardalur, for which it is named 

(figs. 8A, C, 78, 82, 147). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 35). Shown erroneously as 

Glacier 04/Q/13 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 26) and Escritt (n.d.). Glacier 04/Q/13 

is misnumbered; it should be Glacier 04/Q/14.

Figure 78. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Heljardalsjökull mountain glacier on 

6 September 2000. View looking to the 

southeast. The Deildardalsjökull mountain 

glacier is on the left. Two cirque glaciers 

are connected across the watershed divide; 

Heljardalsjökull is facing away on the right. 

Photograph no. 24003v by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 101

Heljarjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°48.2′N., 18°52′W.

Mountain glacier on the northeast side of Heljarfjall in Tröllaskagi, northern 

Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 190). Described by Escritt (1975, p. 61) as a mountain glacier. 

Þverdalsjökull is an alternative name. Shown as Glacier 05/D/6 on maps in Escritt 

(1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Named after Heljardalur and Heljarfjall.

Heljarskálarjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°37′N., 18°28′W.

Remnants of a cirque glacier in Heljarskál cirque, for which it is named, Öxnadalur, 

Tröllaskagi (figs. 8A, C). Cited by Häberle (1991, p. 185).

Herðubreiðarjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°44′N., 17°08′W.

Historic alternative name for the northwestern side of VATNAJÖKULL (fig. 2A). 

Cited by Benediktsson [1747 (1957, p. 222, 236)]. Named for the Herðubreið 

table mountain.

Hestárjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°47.3′N., 18°32′W.

Mountain glacier at the head of Nautárdalur in Þorvaldsdalur, northern Iceland 

(figs. 8A, C, 118). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 36). Shown as Glacier 05/E/06 on maps 

in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Named for the Hestá creek.

Héðinsdalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°38′N., 18°52′W.

Cirque glacier at the head of Héðinsá, Syðri-Héðinsdalur in Hjaltadalur, Tröllaskagi, 

northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 79). Héðinsjökull is an alternative name. Cited by 

Escritt (n.d., p. 35), Rist (1985), ÁFÍ 1990 (p. 146) as Héðins(dals)jökull. Shown as 

Glacier 04/Q/04 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Héðinsdalsjökull

is separated by the Jökulfjall ridge from Myrkárjökull to the east. Named for the 

Héðinsdalur valley.

Héðinsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°38′N., 18°52′W.

Alternative name for Héðinsdalsjökull. Cited in ÁFÍ 1990 (p. 143). Named after 

Héðinsdalur.

Héðinsskarðajökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°39.3′N., 18°52′W.

Cirque glacier at the head of Ytri-Skarðsá, Héðinsdalur, Tröllaskagi, northern 

Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 79, 85). Skarðsárjökull is an alternative name. Cited by Rist 

(1985). Separated by the Jökulfjall ridge from Barkárdalsjökull to the east. 

Named for the Héðinsskörð mountain pass (more commonly in the singular form, 

Héðinsskarð).

Hjaltadalsheiðarjökull* Norðurland 64°36′N., 18°53′W.

Snow patch on the Hjaltadalsheiði mountain route, for which it is named, 

Tröllaskagi, northern Iceland (table 11). Cited by Vigfússon [1843 (1954, p. 124)].

Hjaltadalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°35′N., 18°55′W.

Mountain glacier at the head of Hjaltadalur, Tröllaskagi, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 

52, 80). First cited by Pálsson [1795 §22 (2004, p. 105)]. Also cited by Vigfússon 

[1843 (1954, p. 124, 125)], Ahlmann (1937, p. 222), Thorarinsson (1943, p. 17), 

ÁFÍ 1946 (p. 60, 63), Rist (1985), and Escritt (n.d.). Shown on AÍ4 (1966), AK4 

(1996), C761 (1916III), C762 (5823IV), and as Glacier 04/Q/03 on maps in Escritt 

(1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Named for the Hjaltadalur valley.
102 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Hjálpleysujökull Austfjarðajöklar 65°02′N., 14°25′W.

Cirque glacier in Kaldakinn by the Hjálpleysa mountain route, for which it is named, 

in eastern Iceland (Rist, 1985) (figs. 9C, 81). 

HNAPPAFELLSJÖKULL Vatnajökull Group 64°06′N., 16°56′W.

63°55′N., 16°25′W.

Historic name for ÖRÆFAJÖKULL or even for the entire VATNAJÖKULL

used in the 14th century (fig. 2A). Cited in Annálar íslenzkir [14th century (1888, 

p. 404)], Oddsson [1638 (1942, p. 62)], Pálsson [1795 §25 (2004, p. 112 )], and 

Kålund [1877 (1984, v. IV, p. 62, 63, 69)]. KNAPPAFELLSJÖKULL is an alternative name. Named for the Hnappafell, an historic name for Öræfajökull volcano.

HNAPPAVALLAJÖKULL Vatnajökull Group 64°06′N., 16°56′W.

63°55′N., 16°25′W.

Name used by Thoroddsen (1914b, v. 3, p. 255) in reference to ÖRÆFAJÖKULL

(fig. 2A). Cited in Annálar íslenzkir [14th century (1888, p. 209) as 

Hnappavallarjökull]. Named for the Hnappavellir farmstead.

Hnjótajökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°51′N., 18°55.6′W.

Mountain glacier by Hnjótafjall, Tröllaskagi, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 82, 147). 

Cited by Rist (1985). Cited by Stötter as Hnjótakverk (1991, p. 57). Shown on map 

by Stötter (1991, fig. 21) as glacier no. 43. Named for Hnjótar, a section of land on 

both sides of the Hnjótafjall mountain.

Figure 79. Oblique aerial photograph of the Héðinsdalsjökull cirque glacier on 6 September 2000. View looking to the east at the 

Héðinsskarðajökull mountain glacier (on the left) and Héðinsdalsjökull at the head of the Héðinsdalur tributary valley in Hjaltadalur. Photograph 

no. 23990v by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 103

Figure 80. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Hjaltadalsjökull mountain glacier 

on 6 September 2000. View looking to the 

east. The Hörgárjökull mountain glacier is 

contiguous with Hjaltadalsjökull on the east at 

the watershed divide from the small nunatak. 

Photograph no. 23988v by O.S., NEA.

Heljardalsjökull Deildardalsjökull Hnjótajökull

Skallárdalsjökull

Unadalsjökull

Figure 81. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Hjálpleysujökull mountain glacier on 

28 September 2002. View looking west at the 

Hjálpleysa mountain route. The distinct set 

of terminal moraines of Hjálpleysujökull are 

visible in the upper center of the photograph. 

Photograph no. 26711v by O.S., NEA.

Figure 82. Oblique aerial photograph the Hnjótajökull cirque glacier on 6 September 2000. View looking west at the Unadalsjökull mountain route. 

Hnjótajökull is in the center. At the head of the valleys on either side of Hnjótafjall (center) are the following mountain glaciers: Heljardalsjökull (distant left), 

Deildardalsjökull (left center), Skallárdalsjökull (front, right center), and Unadalsjökull (back, right center). Photograph no. 24026v by O.S., NEA.
104 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Hoffellsdalsjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°29′N., 15°19′W.

Name used for a southern distributary outlet glacier of Lambatungnajökull that 

extended into the north end of Hoffellsdalur for which it is named. The distributary 

was most prominent at the maximum advance of Lambatungnajökull during the 

“Little Ice Age” in Iceland. Its terminus was measured between 1935 and 1945. 

Cited by Sigurðsson (1998, p. 6). The glacier no longer exists, having receded into 

Lambatungnajökull. Shown on location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 9).

Hoffellsjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°26′N., 15°28′W.

Outlet glacier on the southeastern margin of VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 26A, 83, 

188). Cited in Pálsson [1795, §12 (2004, p. 47)], Jónsson [1873 (1997, p. 74, 78)] 

and Thoroddsen (1892, p. 127). Shown on the following maps: AB96 (1972), C762 

(1620II, III), AÍ8 (1976), AK8 (1997), JÍB, and on location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, 

p. 9). Named for the Hoffell farmstead.

Hofsárjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°50.6′N., 18°30.6′W.

Cirque glacier at the head of Hofsdalur, Svarfaðardalur, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 84). 

Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 36) and Stötter (1991, p. 56). Shown as Glacier 05/D/38 on 

maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.), and on map in Stötter (1991, fig. 21) 

as glacier no. 1. Named for the Hofsá farmstead. 

Hofsdalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°40.2′N., 18°54.5′W.

Mountain glacier at the head of Hofsdalur, for which it is named, in Hjaltadalur, 

northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 85). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 35). Shown as Glacier 

04/Q/06 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.).

Svínafellsjökull

Hoffellsjökull

Svínafellsjökull

Viðborðsjökull

Hoffellsjökull

Figure 83. Oblique aerial photograph of the Hoffellsjökull outlet glacier on 28 September 2002. View looking northwest at three outlet glaciers 

on the southeastern margin of the VATNAJÖKULL ice cap (from left to right): Viðborðsjökull (left), Svínafellsjökull, and Hoffellsjökull in the right 

center, separated by the Öldutangi ridge. Photograph no. 26677 by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 105

Sælujökull nyrðri Sælujökull syðri

H o f s á r j ö k u l l

Figure 84. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Hofsárjökull cirque glacier on 

6 September 2000. View looking to 

the southeast at three cirque glaciers: 

Hofsárjökull (left) and Sælujökull nyrðri 

(right center), and Sælujökull syðri (right). 

Photograph no. 24043v by O.S., NEA.

Tungnahryggsjökull

Héðinsskarðajökul l

H o f s d a l s j ö k u l l

Figure 85. Oblique aerial photograph of the Hofsdalsjökull cirque glacier on 6 September 2000. View looking to the east. The Tungnahryggsjökull

compound mountain glacier is in the background on the left; Héðinsskarðajökull is in the right background. Photograph no. 23992v by O.S., NEA.
106 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

HOFSJÖKULL Hofsjökull Group 64°59′N.,19°10′W.

64°38′N.,18°25′W.

Third largest ice cap in Iceland (figs. 4A, 86). It has 10 outlet glaciers, including 

5 surge-type glaciers, on official maps: Blágnípujökull, Blautukvíslarjökull, 

Blöndujökull, Klakksjökull, Kvíslajökull, Múlajökull, Nauthagajökull, 

Rótarjökull, Sátujökull, and Þjórsárjökull (2 lobes). It has an additional 8 named 

ice-flow basins defined by surface topography during radio-echosounding surveys 

(Björnsson, 1988): Álftabrekkujökull, Austari-Jökulsárjökull, Brattöldujökull, 

Löngukvíslarjökull, Miklafellsjökull, Miklukvíslarjökull, Tvífellsjökull, and Þverfellsjökull). Anecdotal evidence suggests that Háöldujökull and Nauthagajökull

are also surge-type glaciers (Björnsson and others, 2003, p. 85). Ólafsfellsjökull

has been used as an alternative name for Nauthagajökull (ÁFÍ 1988, map, 

p. 88; Guðmundsson, 1995, p. 34). Háöldujökull (named by Björnsson, 1988), 

Illviðrajökull (Illviðrahnjúkajökull, named by Björnsson, 1988), Lambahraunsjökull, 

and Tungufönn are names of other outlet glaciers. Magnússon (1702–1714; 1955, 

p. 98–99) referred to HOFSJÖKULL in his Chorographica Islandica; he noted 

that to the people of Norðurland it was called HOFSJÖKULL and to the people 

of Suðurland it was called ARNARFELLSJÖKULL. HOFSJÖKULL is named 

after the Hof farmstead, north of the ice cap in Vesturdalur, Skagafjarðarsýsla 

(see Jósepsson and Steindórsson, 1981, p. 85). On Pálsson’s 1794 map of 

ARNARFELLSJÖKULL (HOFSJÖKULL) [1795, Tab. IV (2004, p. 99); 

Sigurðsson, 1978, p. 186)], the ice cap is labeled ARNARFELLSJÖKULL or 

HOFSJÖKULL. Cited in Olavius [1780 (1964, v. 1, p. 279, 307)]. Knoff’s 1733 

map (Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 144) showed Hofs Iøkull; Horrebow’s 1752 map 

(Sigurdsson, 1978, p. 157) also used Hofs Jökull. Ólafsson and Pálsson (1772) 

referred to HOFSJÖKULL, as did Eiríksson and Schöning (Hofs=Iökull) on 

their 1771 map (NCOI) and on the 1780 edition of NCOI (Sigurðsson, 1978, 

p. 160). Gunnlaugsson’s 1848 map (UÍ1, 2) (Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 256), 

Paijkull’s (1867a) map (GMIP) and Thoroddsen (1892, 1906, and 1911) all used 

ARNARFELLSJÖKULL or HOFSJÖKULL, although Thoroddsen’s (1901) map 

(GMIT) showed HOFSJÖKULL only. All maps (for example, AK5, ÁKÍ5, AB, 

C761) published during the 20th century show HOFSJÖKULL. No outlet glaciers 

of HOFSJÖKULL are named on maps until 1965, although Gunnlaugsson’s 1848 

map (UÍ1) (Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 256) showed Blágnýpujökull. AK5 (1946) named 

no outlet glaciers; on AK5 (1967) two are shown, Kvíslajökull and Blöndujökull; 

on AK5 (1978), nine outlet glaciers were named (Rótarjökull omitted). On C761, 

nine outlet glaciers are named but Sátujökull omitted. Shown on JÍB; JÍK-5; AB55, 

65, 66; AÍ5 (1978); AK5 (1996); C762 (5720I, 5721I, II, 5820IV, 5821I, II, III, IV); 

C761 (1814I, II, 1914I, II, III, IV) and location map in Sigurðsson (1998, p. 10).

HOFSJÖKULL Austfjarðajöklar 64°38′N., 15°05′W.

64°36′N., 15°01′W.

An ice cap in eastern Iceland (figs. 9B, 87A, B). It had one small outlet glacier on 

its western margin, Morsárjökull; it no longer exists. HOFSJÖKULL eystri (ÁFÍ 

1937, p. 75), HOFSJÖKULL í Lóni, and HOFSJÖKULL í austri (ÁFÍ 1937, p. 76) 

are variable attributes. Noted by Olavius [1780 (1965, v. 2, p. 133, 165)]. Cited by 

Kålund [1877 (1984, v. IV, p. 51)], Thoroddsen (1892, p. 130), Thorarinsson (1943, 

p. 17, as HOFSJÖKULL í Lóni), and Rist (1985). Shown on UÍ2, GMIP, GMIT, JÍB, 

AÍ8 (1976), AK8 (1997), AB105 (1976; blue contours incomplete)/ AB106 (1971, 

blue contours incomplete), and C762 (6120I). The ice cap lies on the mountain route 

between farmsteads in Víðidalur and Hofsdalur. It is named for the Hof rectory.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 107

0 5 KILOMETERS

15°5'W 15°W

64°35'N

A

65°N

64°40'N

19°W

0 5 10 KILOMETERS

Figure 86. Enlargement of Landsat 

1 MSS false-color composite image of the 

HOFSJÖKULL ice cap on 19 August 1973. 

Landsat image 1392–12185 from the USGS, 

EROS Data Center, Sioux Falls, SD 57198.

B

Figure 87. A, Enlargement of Landsat MSS 

false-color composite image of the HOFSJÖKULL

ice cap on 22 September 1973. Landsat 1 MSS image 

1426–12064 from the USGS, EROS Data Center, 

Sioux Falls, SD 57198. 

B, Oblique aerial photograph of HOFSJÖKULL on 

28 September 2002. View looking to the southeast. 

In the extreme right background 

are glaciers on Tungutindar and 

Flugustaðatindar. Photograph 

no. 26757v by O.S., NEA.
108 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Holárdalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°43.5′N., 18°33.3′W.

A partly debris-covered, double-lobed cirque glacier at the head of Holárdalur, 

Skíðadalur, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 88). Shown as Glacier 05/D/33 on maps 

in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.), and on map in Stötter (1991, fig. 21) as 

glacier nos. 6 and 7. Cited by Stötter as two separate glaciers (1991, p. 56). See also 

figure 9 in Sigurðsson (2004, p. 57). Named for the Holárdalur valley.

Holárfjallsjökull nyrðri Norðurlandsjöklar 65°44.3′N., 18°34.5′W.

Cirque glacier on the east side of Holárfjall, for which it is named, Skíðadalur, 

northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 88). Nyrðri-Holárfjallsjökull is an alternative spelling. 

Cited in Escritt (n.d., p. 36) and by Stötter (1991, p. 56). Shown as Glacier 05/D/31 

on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.), and on map in Stötter (1991, 

fig. 21) as glacier no. 9.

Holárfjallsjökull syðri Norðurlandsjöklar 65°44′N., 18°34′W.

Cirque glacier on the east side of Holárfjall, Skíðadalur, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, 

C, 88). Syðri-Holárfjallsjökull is an alternative spelling. Shown as Glacier 05/D/32 

on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.), and on map in Stötter (1991, 

fig. 21) as glacier no. 8. Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 36) and Stötter (1991, p. 56). 

Named for the Holárfjall mountain.

Hornafjarðarjöklar Vatnajökull Group 64°28′N., 15°43′W.

Historic collective name for the outlet glaciers in southeastern VATNAJÖKULL

that lie between Kálfafellsdalur and Hoffellsdalur (fig. 2A). Hornafjarðarjökull is an 

alternative name. Cited by Ólafsson [1772 (1975, v. 2, p. 109)], Pálsson [1795, §12 

(2004, p. 50; see also Endnote No. 128, p. 160)], and in ÁFÍ 1993 (p. 150). Shown 

on Pálsson’s map of KLOFAJÖKULL or VATNAJÖKULL [1795, Tab. 1 (2004, 

p. 40)]. Named for the Hornafjörður district.

Hornafjarðarjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°28′N., 15°43′W.

Historic collective name for the main glacier and outlet glaciers in southeastern

VATNAJÖKULL (fig. 2A). Hornafjarðarjöklar is an alternative name. Cited by 

Árni Magnússon [1702–1714 (1955, p. 30)] and Stefánsson [1746 (1957, p. 11, 16). 

Named for the Hornafjörður district.

Hornbrynujökull* Austurland 64°52′N., 14°56′W.

Snowpatch on the Hornbrynja Mountain, for which it is named (table 11). Cited by 

Oddsson [1638 (1942, p. 103)].

Hornsárdalsjökull Langjökull Group 64°29′N., 21°40′W.

Alternative name for the Skarðsheiðarjökull ice aprons. Cited by Guðmundsson and 

Þorleifsson (1999, p. 160). Named for the Hornsárdalur valley.

Hóladalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°30′N., 18°30′W.

Cirque glacier at the head of Hóladalur, for which it is named, in Öxnadalur, 

northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 32, 89). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 36). Shown as Glacier 

05/F/19 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.).
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 109

Hóladalsjökull

Kirkjufjallsdragsjökull

Syðri-Króksárjökull

Holárdalsjökull Holárfjallsjökull syðri Lambárdalsjökull Heiðinnamannajökull

H o l á r f j a l l s j ö k u l l n y r ð r i

Figure 89. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Hóladalsjökull cirque glacier on 

6 September 2000. View looking to the 

southeast at two cirque glaciers at the 

heads of tributary valleys in Öxnadalur, 

Kirkjufjallsdragsjökull (nearest on the left) 

and Hóladalsjökull (left center). The two 

Syðri-Króksárjökull mountain glaciers at 

the head of Skjóldalur are in the upper right 

center, middle background. Photograph 

no. 24072v by O.S., NEA.

Figure 88. Oblique aerial photograph of the Holárdalsjökull cirque glacier on 6 September 2000. View looking to the southeast at five cirque 

glaciers in Holárdalur, Skíðadalur. Holárdalsjökull is at the head of the valley; Holárfjallsjökull nyrðri is at the right center; Holárfjallsjökull syðri is in the 

center. The Heiðinnamannajökull and Lambárdalsjökull mountain glaciers are in the upper right. Photograph no. 24039v by O.S., NEA.
110 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Hóladalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°42.4′N., 18°57′W.

Mountain glacier at the head of Hóladalur, for which it is named, in Hjaltadalur, 

northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 90). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 35) as two glaciers: 

Glacier 04/Q/07 and Glacier 04/Q/08 on maps on Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt 

(n.d.).

Hólárjökull Vatnajökull Group 63°57′N., 16°34′W.

Outlet glacier on the southern margin of ÖRÆFAJÖKULL, southern part of 

VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 26A, 91, 188). Cited by Thoroddsen (1892, p. 128) and 

ÁFÍ 1937 (p. 31). On location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 9). Named for the Hólá river.

Figure 91. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Hólárjökull outlet glacier on 

28 September 2002. View looking to the 

north. The Stigárjökull (left) and Hólárjökull

outlet glaciers are on the southern margin of 

the ÖRÆFAJÖKULL internal ice cap. The 

Rótarfjallshnjúkur and Hnappar nunataks 

can be seen on the summit crater’s rim. 

Hvannadalshnjúkur, Iceland’s highest 

peak (2,110 m), is in the left background. 

Photograph no. 26636v by O.S., NEA.

Figure 90. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Hóladalsjökull mountain glacier on 

15 September 2003. View looking to the 

southwest. Photograph no. 27662v by 

O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 111

Hólatindajökull Snæfellsjökull 64°48′N., 23°48′W.

Outlet glacier on the southwestern margin of SNÆFELLSJÖKULL (figs. 6, 20, 92). 

Named by Jón Eyþórsson in 1930 after the Hólatindar volcanic crater (Eyþórsson, 

1931, p. 23; sketch map on p. 18). Shown on location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 5).

Hólmsárjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°20′N., 15°34′W.

Historic name for all or part of Fláajökull.(figs. 2A, 49). Hólsárjökull is an alternative name. Cited by Stefánsson [1746 (1957, p. 13] and Thoroddsen (1892, p. 127, 

who cites Amund Helland as the source; 1914b, v. 3, p. 221, again citing Amund 

Helland as the source). Named for the Hólmsá river.

Hólsárjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°20′N., 15°34′W.

Alternative name of Fláajökull (Hólmsárjökull). Used by Pálsson [1795, §12 (2004, 

p. 47; see also Endnote no. 116, p. 159)] and other contemporary manuscripts. 

Stefánsson [1746 (1957, p. 19)] uses both Hólmsárjökull (p. 13) and Hólsárjökull 

(p. 19). Presumably named for a Hólsá river, whose geographic location is not 

known presently. 

Blágilsjökull Hólatindajökull

Figure 92. Oblique aerial photograph of 

the Hólatindajökull outlet glacier (center) on 

18 October 2001. View looking to the east at 

the western margin of the SNÆFELLSJÖKULL

ice cap. The Blágilsjökull outlet glacier 

extends to the left. Photograph no. 25775v by 

O.S., NEA.

Hrafnabjargajökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°31′N., 18°44.5′W.

A cirque glacier east of Víkingsfjall, Norðurárdalur, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 93). 

Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 35). Shown as Glacier 04/P/01 on maps in Escritt (1975, 

p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Named for the Hrafnabjörg cliffs.

Hraunárdalsjökull nyrðri Norðurlandsjöklar 65°24.3′N., 18°32.2′W.

Cirque glacier at the head of Hraunárdalur, for which it is named, in Djúpidalur, 

Eyjafjörður, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 94). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 37). Shown 

as Glacier 05/G/15 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.).
112 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Hraunárdalsjökull syðri Norðurlandsjöklar 65°24.1′N., 18°31.2′W.

Cirque glacier at the head of Hraunárdalur, for which it is named, in Djúpidalur, 

Eyjafjörður, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 94). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 37). Shown 

as Glacier 05/G/16 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.).

Hróarsdalsjökull* Austurland 64°57’ N., 14°21′W.

Snow patch in Hróarsdalur, east of Hnausafjall in eastern Iceland (table 11). Cited in 

ÁFÍ 1955 (p. 12) and ÁFÍ 2002 (p. 207). Shown on AB114 (1997). Named for the 

Hróarsdalur valley.

Hraunárdalsjökull nyrðri

Hraunárdalsjökull syðri

Figure 94. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Hraunárdalsjökull nyrðri (right) and 

Hraunárdalsjökull syðri (left) cirque glaciers 

on 6 September 2000. View looking to 

the southwest. Photograph no. 24099v by 

O.S., NEA.

Figure 93. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Hrafnabjargajökull cirque glacier on 

6 September 2000. Photograph no. 24065v by 

O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 113

Hrunajökull Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°39′N., 19°24′W.

Name for the western margin of MÝRDALSJÖKULL (figs. 3A, 95, 150, 183) 

adjacent to the Hrunar grazing common, for which it is named. Shown on Map C761 

(1812II).

Hrunakvíslarjökull Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°40′N., 19°23′W.

Former distributary from the Tungnakvíslarjökull outlet glacier on the 

western margin of MÝRDALSJÖKULL. Cited by Tómasson (1996, p. 75). 

Hrunakvíslarjökull has receded into Tungnakvíslarjökull and no longer exists. 

Named for the Hrunakvísl creek.

Hrunárjöklar Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°39′N., 19°24′W.

Outlet glaciers on the western margin of MÝRDALSJÖKULL (figs. 3A, 95, 150, 

183). Named after the Hruná river. Cited in ÁFÍ 1972 (p. 122 and map ff p. 160). 

Shown on sérkort Landmannalaugar-Þórsmörk (1985).

Hrunárjöklar

H r u n a j ö k u l l

Tungnakvíslarjökull

Krossárjökull

Figure 95. Oblique aerial photograph of the Hrunárjöklar outlet glaciers on 11 September 1992. View looking to the northeast. The Hrunárjöklar

outlet glaciers are in the foreground facing away on the western margin of the MÝRDALSJÖKULL ice cap. The Tungnakvíslarjökull outlet glacier 

(middle background) and the upper part of the Krossárjökull outlet glacier (upper left center) are visible. Hrunajökull, an ice-margin name, is also 

shown. Photograph no. 14651v by O.S., NEA.
114 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

HRÚTAFELLSJÖKULL Langjökull Group 64°46′N., 19°46′W.

64°43′N., 19°42′W.

Alternative name of HRÚTFELLSJÖKULL. Name used by Rist (1985). Named 

for the Hrút(a)fell mountain.

Hrútafellsjökull Austfjarðajöklar 64°58′N., 14°17′W.

Remnants of a cirque glacier on Hrútafell mountain, for which it is named, in 

Fáskrúðsfjörður, eastern Iceland (figs. 9C, 96). Cited by Rist (1985).

Figure 96. Oblique aerial photograph of 

the remnants of the Hrútafellsjökull cirque 

glacier on 16 September 2003. View looking 

to the southeast. Photograph no. 28055v by 

O.S., NEA.

Hrútárjöklar Vatnajökull Group 64°01′N., 16°27′W.

Historic name for “two” outlet glaciers on the eastern margin of ÖRÆFAJÖKULL, 

southern part of VATNAJÖKULL, encompassing what are now Hrútárjökull and 

Fjallsjökull. Cited by Thoroddsen (1906, p. 194), (1911, p. 54, 58; 1914b, v. 3, 

p. 235, 238). Named for the Hrútá river.

Hrútárjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°00′N., 16°29′W.

Outlet glacier on the eastern margin of ÖRÆFAJÖKULL, southern part of 

VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 26A, 48, 188). Hrútárjökull vestri is an historic name. 

Cited in ÁFÍ 1937 (p. 33). Shown on the following maps: ÁÍ9 (1976, first appearance), AK9 (1997), AB87 (1972), sérkort Skaftafell AB87/88 (1991), and on 

location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 9). Named for the Hrútá river.

Hrútárjökull eystri Vatnajökull Group 64°01′N., 16°25′W.

Historic name for what is now known as Fjallsjökull. Cited by Thoroddsen (1911, 

p. 54, 58; Eystri-Hrútárjökull on p. 55). Named for the Hrútá river.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 115

Hrútárjökull vestri Vatnajökull Group 64°00′N., 16°29′W.

Historic name for what is now known as Hrútárjökull. Cited by Thoroddsen (1906, 

p. 194; and 1911, p. 58). Named for the Hrútá river.

HRÚTFELLSJÖKULL Langjökull Group 64°46′N., 19°46′W.

64°43′N., 19°42′W.

Ice cap on Hrútfell in west-central Iceland (figs. 5, 97). It has five outlet glaciers, 

three of which, Norðvesturjökull, Vesturjökull, and Miðjökull, extend like fingers 

toward the north and east. HRÚTFELLSJÖKULL has also had alternative 

names: HRÚTAFELLSJÖKULL, and various spellings of REGNBÚÐAJÖKULL, 

REGNBÚÐAJÖKLAR, and REGNBOGAJÖKULL. UÍ1 showed Hrútafell as 

part of LANGJÖKULL. GMIT shows a glacierized Hrútafell as separate from 

LANGJÖKULL. Cited in ÁFÍ 2001 (p. 89, 190, 191). HRÚTFELLSJÖKULL

does not appear on any modern maps; REGNBÚÐAJÖKULL is used on AK5 (1968, 

1988), AB55 (1966), and C761 (1814III and 1814IV). HRÚTFELLSJÖKULL

takes its name from the Hrútfell mountain.

Norðvesturjökull

Suðurjökull

Norðurjökull

H R Ú T F E L L S J Ö K U L L

K i r k j u j ö k u l l

Vesturjökul l

M i ð j ö

k u l l

Figure 97. Oblique aerial photograph of the HRÚTFELLSJÖKULL ice cap on 14 September 2004. View looking to the southwest toward the 

eastern margin of the LANGJÖKULL ice cap. On the eastern margin of the ice cap are two unnamed outlet glaciers (left). On the northern margin are 

three outlet glaciers (left to right), an unnamed outlet glacier, Miðjökull, and Vesturjökull. On the northwestern margin of the ice cap, partly in shadow, 

is the Norðvesturjökull outlet glacier. In the background are three outlet glaciers of LANGJÖKULL (left to right), Suðurjökull, the upper part of 

Norðurjökull, and Kirkjujökull. Photograph no. 29295h by O.S., NEA.
116 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Huldujökull Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°34′N., 18°55′W.

Tributary outlet glacier on the southeastern margin of MÝRDALSJÖKULL that 

flows out of MÝRDALSJÖKULL and into (merges with) Kötlujökull (figs. 3A, 98, 

150). Hvítijökull is an alternative name. Named by Eyþórsson (1945b, p. 161, 162) 

because it is so obscure. Cited by Rist (1967a, map on p. 239) and by Sigbjarnarson 

(J23; 1974, sketch map on p. 48).

Húsárjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°38.7′N., 18°19.5′W.

Cirque glacier, a part of the Vindheimajökull glacier group, at the head of Húsárskarð, 

northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 33). Vindheimajökull vestri is an alternative name. Cited 

in ÁFÍ 1991 (p. 91). Named for the Húsá creek.

Hvannárjökull Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°39′N., 19°28′W.

Outlet glacier on the northeastern part of EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL (figs. 3B, 42, 99). 

Cited by Tómasson (1996, p. 71). Named for the Hvanná river.

Hvarfdalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°53′N., 18°53.3′W.

Mountain glacier at the head of Hvarfdalur, Fljót, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 100). 

Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 35). Shown as Glacier 04/5/02 on maps in Escritt (1975, 

p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Named for the Hvarfdalur valley.

Hvítalækjarjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°32.6′N., 18°26′W.

Two mountain glaciers on the north side of Hvítalækjarfjall, Öxnadalur, northern Iceland 

(figs. 8A, C, 101). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 36). Häberle (1991, p. 186) cites two glaciers: 

Hvítalækjarjökull nyrðri and Hvítalækjarjökull syðri. Shown as Glacier 05/F/20 on maps 

in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Named for the Hvítilækur creek.

Hvítijökull Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°34′N.,18°55′W.

Alternative name for Huldujökull. Cited by Þórarinsson (1959, shown on perspective 

drawing on p. 7 by Steinþór Sigurðsson). Named for its clean appearance.

Hyrningsjökull Snæfellsjökull 64°49′N., 23°44′W.

Outlet glacier on the eastern margin of SNÆFELLSJÖKULL (figs. 6, 102, 128). 

Named by Jón Eyþórsson (1934, p. 97). Named for Þríhyrningur nunatak. Shown on 

location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 5).

HÖFÐABREKKUJÖKULL Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°48′N., 19°26′W.

63°31′N., 18°47′W.

Historic name of the MÝRDALSJÖKULL ice cap (fig. 3A). Cited by Steingrímsson 

[1788 (1907-1915, p. 191), and Sigurðsson [1840 (1997, p. 232)]. Named for the 

Höfðabrekka farmstead.

Höfðabrekkujökull Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°35′N., 18°49′W.

Alternative name of Kötlujökull, an outlet glacier from the southeastern margin of 

MÝRDALSJÖKULL. Sigurðsson (1999) gives a summary of the usage of Kötlujökull

and Höfðabrekkujökull. “Höfðabrekkujökull” is the name used for a jökulhlaup deposit 

on the western side of Múlakvísl (fig. 10 and table 10). Höfðabrekkujökull is cited by 

Þórarinsson (J9, perspective sketchmap on p. 7 by Steinþór Sigurðsson) as an alternative 

name for Kötlujökull (p. 14). Other citations to Höfðabrekkujökull include the following: 

Þórarinsson (J5, p. 43–46; J7, p. 22), Rist (J5, p. 43–46; J7, p. 36; J17, sketch map on p. 239, 

with Kötlujökull shown as an alternative name, p. 243), Sigbjarnarson [J23 (1974), p. 45], 

ÁFÍ 1975 (p. 128), Björnsson [J26 (1977), p. 58; J29 (1980), p. 78], Einarsson [J26 (1977), 
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 117

Figure 100. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Hvarfdalsjökull mountain glacier on 

6 September 2000. View looking to the 

southeast. Hvarfdalsjökull is in the center. The 

Kerlingajökull mountain glacier is on the left. 

Photograph no. 24012v by O.S., NEA.

Figure 99. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Hvannárjökull outlet glacier on 

2 September 2007. View looking to the 

southwest on the northeastern margin of 

the EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL ice cap across 

Hvannárjökull. Photograph no. 33625h by 

O.S., NEA.

Figure 98. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Huldujökull tributary outlet glacier 

on 12 June 1998. View looking to the 

northwest at the southeastern margin of the 

MYRDALSJÖKULL ice cap. In the background 

is the ice-filled Katla caldera. The Kötlujökull

outlet glacier is in the middle background and 

in the lower right. Photograph no. 20391v by 

O.S., NEA.
118 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Hvítalækjarjökull nyrðri Hvítalækjarjökull syðri

Glerárdalsjökull

L a m b á r d a l s j ö k u l lL a m b á r d a l s j ö k u l l

Blágilsjökull

Kvíahnúksjökul l

H y r n i n

g s j ö k u l l

Jökulhálsjökul l

Figure 102. Oblique aerial photograph of the Hyrningsjökull outlet glacier on 18 October 2001. View looking to the northwest on the eastern 

margin of the SNÆFELLSJÖKULL ice cap. Three other outlet glaciers are visible, the upper reaches of Kvíahnúksjökull on the left, Jökulhálsjökull on 

the right, and Blágilsjökull in the distant right. Photograph no. 25785v by O.S., NEA.

Figure 101. Oblique aerial photograph of the Hvítalækjarjökull cirque glaciers on 6 September 2000. View looking to the southeast. In the left 

background is the Glerárdalsjökull cirque glacier. The Lambárdalsjökull cirque glacier is in the left-center foreground, Hvítalækjarjökull nyrðri is 

right center and Hvítalækjarökull syðri is on the right. Photograph no. 24075v by O.S., NEA. 
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 119

p. 58], Wiśnewski and others [J47 (1999), p. 59–70; sketch maps on p. 60, 63], Winewski 

and others [J47 (1999), supplement map: Geomorphological Map of the Forefield of 

Höfdabrekkujökull), and Winewski and Weckwerth [J47 (1999), p. 71–88; sketch maps 

on p. 73, 74]. It is shown on AÍ6 (1959, 1969, and 1973), AK6 (1996), AB68 (1945), and 

FB69 N.V.(1957) as an alternative name for Kötlujökull, and on C762 (5817IV), and 

C761 (1912III). ÁFÍ (1960, p. 44) shows it as both Kötlujökull and Höfðabrekkujökull; 

sérkort Landmannalaugar/Þórsmörk (1985) shows Höfðabrekkujökull, with Kötlujökull

as an alternative name. Named for the Höfðabrekka farmstead.

“Höfðabrekkujökull” Suðurland 63°25′N., 18°53′W.

Jökulhlaup deposits from Kötluhlaup along the course of Múlakvísl on the western 

side of Mýrdalssandur. “Höfðabrekkujökull” lies west of another jökulhlaup deposit, 

“Austurjökull” (Thoroddsen, 1911, p. 7; 1914, v. 3, p. 102; Jónsson, 1983, map on 

p. 62). Cited in ÁFÍ 1935 (p. 23). Shown on FB69 N.V. (1957) and AB69 (1990). 

See figure 10A and table 10. Named for the Höfðabrekka farmstead.

HÖFÐAJÖKULL Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°48′N., 19°26′W.

63°31′N., 18°47′W.

Historic name of MÝRDALSJÖKULL (fig. 3A). Cited by Steingrímsson [1788 

(1907-1915, p. 191), Sigurðsson [1840 (1997, p. 232)], and Pálsson [1795, §26 (2004, 

p. 122; see also Endnote no. 377, p. 180)]. Shown on maps AB69 and C761 (1911IV). 

See discussion of various place-names used historically for MÝRDALSJÖKULL

(Sigurðsson, 1999). Named for the Hjörleifshöfði promontory.

HÖFÐÁRJÖKULL Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°48′N., 19°26′W.

63°31′N., 18°47′W.

Historic name of MÝRDALSJÖKULL (fig. 3A). Cited in Lögmannsannáll with 

reference to the 1416 eruption of Katla (Annálar íslenzkir, 1888, p. 292) and in ÁFÍ 

1975 (p. 140). Named for the historic Höfðá river.

Hörgárdalsjöklar Norðurlandsjöklar 65°35.5′N., 18°52.7′W.

Collective name for mountain glaciers and snow patches at the head of Hörgárdalur, 

for which they are named, Tröllaskagi (figs. 8A, C, 52). Cited by Häberle (1991, 

p. 185). Shown on map (Häberle, 1991, p. 105).

Hörgárjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°34.7′N.,18°52.5′W.

Mountain glacier at the head of river Hörgá, for which it is named, in Tröllaskagi, 

northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 52, 80, 103). Contiguous with Hjaltadalsjökull. Cited 

by Rist (1985).

I

Illagilsdalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°45.8′N., 18°31.3′W.

Valley glacier in Illagilsdalur valley, for which it is named, Þorvaldsdalur, Tröllaskagi 

(figs. 8A, C, 104). Cited by Häberle (1991, p. 185).

Illagilsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°46′N., 18°30′W.

Alternative name for Illagilsdalsjökull, Þorvaldsdalur, Tröllaskagi. Cited by Escritt 

(n.d., p. 36). Shown as Glacier 05/F/01 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt 

(n.d.). Named after Illagilsdalur valley.
120 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Gíslajökull

Högárjökull Hjaltadalsjökull Myrkárjökull

Sandárdalsjökull

Barkárdalsjökull

Figure 103. Oblique aerial photograph of the Hörgarjökull mountain glacier (left middle background), contiguous with the Hjaltadalsjökull

mountain glacier, on 6 September 2000. View looking to the west. The Myrkárjökull cirque glacier is in the middle foreground. Part of the 

Barkárdalsjökull cirque glacier can be seen in the upper right; below it is part of the Gíslajökull cirque glacier. On the far left are the remnants of the 

Sandárdalsjökull mountain glacier. Photograph no. 24059v by O.S., NEA.

Nautárjökull

Tungudalsjökull I l l a g i l s d a l s j ö k u l l

Figure 104. Oblique aerial photograph of the Illagilsdalsjökull valley glacier (center) on 6 September 2000. View looking to the west-northwest. 

The Tungudalsjökull mountain glacier is on the left edge. The Nautárjökull mountain glacier is on the right. Photograph no. 24052m by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 121

Illviðrahnjúkajökull Hofsjökull Group	 64°58′N., 18°37′W.

Alternative name of Illviðrajökull, an outlet glacier in the northern part of 

HOFSJÖKULL, a named ice flow basin defined by surface topography during 

radio-echosounding surveys. Named by Björnsson (1988, p. 64; Map 19, Glacier 

19). [Note: In Table 4.3 on p. 64, Illviðrahnjúkajökull is Glacier 18.] Named for 

Illviðrahnjúkar, mountain peaks north of the outlet glacier. Cited in ÁFÍ 2001 

(p. 190) as Illviðra(hnjúka)jökull.

Illviðrajökull Hofsjökull Group	 64°58′N., 18°37′W.

Outlet glacier on the northern margin of HOFSJÖKULL (figs. 4A, 86, 105). 

Illviðrahnjúkajökull is an alternative name. Named by Jóhannesson and others 

(1995). Named after Illviðrahnjúkar, mountain peaks north of the glacier.

J

“Jöklar”	 Suðurland	 63°56′N., 16°46′W.

Alternative name for “Jökull”, jökulhlaup deposits from jökulhlaup from 

ÖRÆFAJÖKULL in front of Kotárjökull. Cited in ÁFÍ 1937 (p. 18) as “Jöklar,” 

in Hannesson (1958, p. 304) as “Jökull.” See figure 10 and table 10.

Jökulbotnajökull innri	 Austfjarðajöklar	 64°59′N., 14°08′W.

Cirque glacier in Reyðarfjörður, eastern Iceland. Cited by Rist (1985) (figs. 9C, 

106). Named for the Jökulbotnar cirque.

Jökulbotnajökull ytri Austfjarðajöklar	 64°59′N., 14°06′W.

Cirque glacier in Reyðarfjörður, eastern Iceland. Cited by Rist (1985) (figs. 9C, 

106). Named for the Jökulbotnar cirque.

Figure 105. Oblique aerial photograph of 

the Illviðrajökull outlet glacier on 22 July 1999.

View looking to the south across the 

HOFSJÖKULL ice cap. The Hásteinar nunatak

is visible in the distant background in the upper 

right. Photograph no. 22644v by O.S., NEA.
122 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

“JÖKULBUNGA”	 Vestfjarðajöklar	 66°11′N., 22°17′W.

Internal ice dome in the northern part of DRANGAJÖKULL (figs. 7A, 141, 142). 

Shown on the following maps: AÍ1 (1977), AK1 (1996), AB21 (1978), FB21 S.A., 

C762 (5425I), JÍK1, sérkort Göngukort yfir Hornstrandir (1997), and sérkort 

Hornstrandir (2000).

“JÖKULBUNGA”	 Vatnajökull Group	 64°21′N., 17°25′W.

Alternative name for “HÁABUNGA,” an internal ice dome on the western part of 

VATNAJÖKULL just southwest of Grímsvötn. Named by Wadell in 1919 (1920, 

p. 306). Cited in Ahlmann and Thorarinsson (1937, p. 188).

Jökuldalsfönn Austfjarðajöklar	 64°54′N., 14°07′W.

Cirque glacier in Fáskúðsfjörður, eastern Iceland. Cited by Rist (1985) (figs. 9C, 

106, 107). Named for the Jökuldalur cirque valley.

Jökuldalsjökull	 Vatnajökull Group	 64°45′N., 16°06′W.

Historic name for Brúarjökull (fig. 2A). Cited by Olavius [1780 (1965, v. 2, 

p. 114)]. Named for the Jökuldalur valley.

Figure 107. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Jökuldalsfönn cirque glacier on 

28 September 2002. View looking to the

southeast in Fáskrúðsfjörður. An unnamed

mountain glacier is in Fleinsdalur on the left.

Jökuldalsfönn is on the right in Jökuldalur.

Photograph no. 26706v by O.S., NEA.

Figure 106. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Jökulbotnajökull innri (right) and

Jökulbotnajökull ytri (left) cirque glaciers on 

28 September 2002. View looking south.

The Jökuldalsfönn cirque glacier and an 

unnamed mountain glacier in Fleinsdalur in 

Fáskrúðsfjörður are in the middle background.

Photograph no. 26712h by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 123

Jökulhálsjökull Snæfellsjökull	 64°49′N., 23°45′W.

Outlet glacier on the northeast side of SNÆFELLSJÖKULL (figs. 6, 102). 

Shown on special map of outermost part of Snæfellsnes (Valsson, n.d.). Named for 

Jökulháls.

Jökulkinn Hofsjökull Group	 64°39′N., 19°15′W.

Mountain glacier in Kerlingarfjöll (figs. 4B, 45). Cited in ÁFÍ 1942 (p. 19). Shown 

on C761 (1814II) and on unpublished, 1:50,000-scale sketch map of Kerlingarfjöll 

(sérkort). Named for the likeness of a cheek.

JÖKULL	 Snæfellsjökull	 64°50′N., 23°49′W.

64°48′N., 23°44′W.

Popular name for SNÆFELLSJÖKULL. Cited in Oddsson [1637 (1988, p. 529)], 

Magnússon [1702–1714 (1955, p. 54)] and in Atla saga Ótryggssonar (Jónsson, 

1948, 1953).

JÖKULL	 Vatnajökull Group	 64°06′N., 23°56′W.

63°55′N., 16°25′W.

Historic name for ÖRÆFAJÖKULL. Cited in Oddsson [1637 (1942, p. 15)].

“Jökull”	 Suðurland	 63°32′N., 18°43′W.

Jökulhlaup deposit on Mýrdalssandur, just east of Hafursey, that was deposited 

during the 1755 Kötluhlaup. Cited by Pálsson [1795 §16 (2004, p. 83; see also 

Endnote no. 17, p. 152, and Endnote No. 325, p. 175–176)]. See figure 10 and 

table 10.

“Jökull”	 Suðurland	 63°56′N., 16°46′W.

Jökulhlaup deposit by Kotá in the Öræfi district. “Jöklar” is an alternative name. 

Cited by Hannesson (1958, p. 304). See figure 10 and table 10. Named for its 

original appearance of a glacier (Icelandic: jökull).

Jökulsárgilsjökull Mýrdalsjökull Group	 63°35′N., 19°20′W.

Outlet glacier on the southwestern margin of MÝRDALSJÖKULL, west of 

Sólheimajökull (figs. 3A, 108, 171). Named for the Jökulsárgil gully by Sigurðsson 

and Williams (1991).

Figure 108. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Jökulsárgilsjökull outlet glacier on 

30 October 1985. View looking to the

northwest toward the southwestern margin of 

the MÝRDALSJÖKULL ice cap. The upper

reaches of the Sólheimajökull outlet glacier 

is on the upper right. Photograph no. 7623 by

O.S., NEA.
124 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

K

Kaldaklifsjökull Mýrdalsjökull Group	 63°35′N., 19°32′W.

Outlet glacier on the southern margin of EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL (figs. 3B, 42, 

109). Noted in Jón Eyþórsson (1945a, p. 749) and Einarsson (1946, p. 149). Cited in 

ÁFÍ 1960 (p. 74, 75). Named for the Kaldaklif mountain pass.

Kaldaklofsjökull Mýrdalsjökull Group	 63°54′N., 19°10′W.

63°53′N., 19°06′W.

Small mountain glacier on Kaldaklofsfjöll in southern Iceland west of 

TORFAJÖKULL (figs. 3C, 110), consisting of three parts. Cited in Hannesson 

[(1958, p. 297), Einarsson (1946, p. 144), and in ÁFÍ 1960 (p. 33). Shown on the 

following maps: C761 (1812I) and ÁFÍ 1988 (p. 174, 194). Named for the Kaldaklof 

mountain pass.

Kaldalónsjökull Vestfjarðajöklar	 66°07′N., 22°18′W.

Surge-type outlet glacier on the southwestern margin of DRANGAJÖKULL that 

flows toward Kaldalón (figs. 7A, 37A, 111). Lónjökull is an alternative name. Cited 

by Eyþórsson (1935, p. 124) and Rist (1967b, p. 321). Shown on location map 

(Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 5). Named for the Kaldalón inlet.

Seljavallajökull

Kaldakl if sjökul l

Figure 109. Oblique aerial photograph of the Kaldaklifsjökull outlet glacier on 4 August 1999. View looking to the north on the southern margin of

the EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL ice cap. The Seljavallajökull outlet glacier is on the left; Kaldaklifsjökull is on the right. The Tindfjallajökull mountain 

glacier is in the right background. Photograph no. 22751v by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 125

Figure 111. Ground photograph of the 

Kaldalónsjökull surge-type outlet glacier 

on 5 September 1998. View looking to the

northeast toward the western margin of the 

DRANGAJÖKULL ice cap. Kaldalónsjökull

has completed a surge of about 1 km, and

debris from a jökulhlaup has been deposited 

in front of the glacier in Kaldalónsdalur.

Photograph no. 20996h by O.S., NEA.

Figure 110. Oblique aerial photograph of the Kaldaklofsjökull mountain glacier on 19 September 2002. View looking to the southeast. Part of the

northwestern margin of the MÝRDALSJÖKULL ice cap is in the left background. The northern margin of the EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL ice cap is in the 

center background. Photograph no. 26502 by O.S., NEA.
126 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Kambfellsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar	 65°26.1′N., 18°30′W.

Mountain glacier on the west side of Kambfellsfjall, in Djúpidalur, Eyjafjörður, 

northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 71). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 37). Shown as Glacier 

05/G/14 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Named for Kambfell 

farm.

Kambsárjökull Norðurlandsjöklar	 65°38′N., 18°20′W.

Remnants of a cirque glacier at the head of Kambsá, for which it is named, to the 

southwest of the Vindheimajökull glacier group, in the drainage basin of Bægisá, 

Tröllaskagi (figs. 8A, C, 33). Cited by Häberle (1991, p. 185).

Kambsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar	 65°57′N., 17°46′W.

Cirque glacier in Flateyjardalsheiði, northern Iceland (figs. 8B, C, 61, 112). Named 

for the Kambur mountain by Tryggvi Stefánsson (Sigurðsson, 1996, p. 8). Shown on 

map in ÁFÍ 2000 (p. 200). 

Kaplaskarðsjökull Mýrdalsjökull Group	 63°39′N., 19°45′W.

Alternative name for an outlet glacier on the northwestern margin of 

EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL. Akstaðajökull is the preferred name. Cited in ÁFÍ 1960 

(p. 69). Named for the Kaplaskarð gully.

Kálfafellsjöklar	 Vatnajökull Group	 64°16′N., 15°59′W.

Historic name for outlet glaciers along the southeastern margin of 

VATNAJÖKULL, around Kálfafell (fig. 2A). Cited by Pálsson [1795, §12 (2004, 

p. 47; see also Endnote no. 119, p. 159)]. Named for the Kálfafell rectory.

Kálfafellsjökull	 Vatnajökull Group	

Historic alternative name for the section of VATNAJÖKULL in the vicinity of 

Kálfafell rectory for which it is named (fig. 2A). Cited by Ólafsson [1772 (1975, 

v. II, p. 109).

Figure 112. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Kambsjökull cirque glacier on 

15 September 2003. View looking to

the southeast in Flateyjardalsheiði. The

Kotajökull mountain glacier is in the 

background. Photograph no. 27739v by

O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 127

Kerlingajökull Norðurlandsjöklar	 65°54.2′N., 18°51′W.

Mountain glacier east of Kerlingahnjúkur, Fljót, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 100, 

113, 119). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 35). Shown as Glacier 04/S/03 on maps in Escritt 

(1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Named for the Kerlingar Mountain.

Kerlingarjökull Norðurlandsjöklar	 65°33.3′N., 18°15.2′W.

Cirque glacier on the east side of the Kerling Mountain, for which it is named, 

northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 114). Kerlingarjökull and Lambárjökull are two names 

for the same glacier. Kerlingarjökull has precedence. Cited by Rist (1985).

Kerlingarárjökull Norðurlandsjöklar	 65°36.3′N., 18°45.1′W.

Cirque glacier on the northern side of Flöguselshnjúkur, Myrkárdalur, Tröllaskagi 

(figs. 8A, C, 64). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 36, spelled Kerlingár) and Häberle (1991, 

p. 185, who spelled it “Kerlingsárjökull”). Shown as Glacier 05/F/12 on maps in 

Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Named for the Kerlingará creek.

Kirkjufjallsdragsjökull	 Norðurlandsjöklar	 65°30.8′N., 18°31.3′W.

Cirque glacier in Kirkjufjallsdrag gully, for which it is named, Öxnadalur, 

Tröllaskagi (figs. 8A, C, 89). Cited by Häberle (1991, p. 185).

Kerlingajökull

Klaufabrekknajökull

Klaufabrekknajökull eystri Klaufabrekknajökull vestri

Figure 113. Oblique aerial photograph of the Kerlingajökull cirque glacier on 6 September 2000. View looking to the south. From left to right are

four named cirque glaciers, Klaufabrekknajökull eystri, Klaufabrekknajökull, Klaufabrekknajökull vestri, and Kerlingajökull. Photograph no. 24022v by

O.S., NEA.
128 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Kirkjufjallsjökull*	 Norðurland	 65°31′N., 18°31′W.

Snow patch on the plateau of Kirkjufjall, for which it is named, Hörgárdalur, 

Tröllaskagi (table 11). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 36) and Häberle (1991, p. 186). 

Shown as “Glacier” 05/F/18 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.).

Kirkjujökull Langjökull Group	 64°43′N., 19°51′W.

Outlet glacier on eastern margin of LANGJÖKULL (figs. 5, 97, 115). Shown on 

AK5 (1981 and 1988) and C761 (1814III). Named by Jón E. Ísdal for the Fjallkirkja 

peak.

Kistufellsjökull Vatnajökull Group	 64°49′N., 16°46′W.	

Alternative name for the Dyngjujökull outlet glacier in VATNAJÖKULL. Cited by 

Einarsson (1946, p. 109). Named for the Kistufell mountain.

Kistufellsjökull Austfjarðajöklar	 65°05′N., 14°26′W.

Cirque glacier on the north side of mount Kistufell by Hjálpleysa, eastern Iceland 

(figs. 9C, 116). Cited by Rist (1985). Named for the Kistufell mountain.

Glerárdalsjökull Kistufjallsjökull

Lambárdalsjökull

K e r l i n g a r j ö k u l l

Figure 114. Oblique aerial photograph of the Kerlingarjökull cirque glacier on 6 September 2000. View looking to the northwest at Kerling peak.

In the left background are part of the Glerárdalsjökull cirque glacier. In the left-center background is the Kistufjallsjökull mountain glacier. On the

right is part of the Lambárdalsjökull valley glacier. Photograph no. 24106v by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 129

Kistufjallsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar	 65°34.5′N., 18°22.7′W.

Mountain glacier on the east side of Kistufjall, for which it is named, in Glerárdalur, 

northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 114, 117, 136, 181). Contiguous with Bægisárjökull. 

Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 36). Shown as Glacier 05/G/02 on maps in Escritt (1975, 

p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). 

Kistujökull Norðurlandsjöklar	 65°48.9′N., 18°31.2′W.

Cirque glacier on Kistufjall, from which its name is derived, Skíðadalur, northern 

Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 118). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 36) and Stötter (1991, p. 56). 

Shown as Glacier 05/D/35 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.) and on 

map in Stötter (1991, fig. 21) as glacier no. 4.

Kistujökull Norðurlandsjöklar	 66°03′N., 18°35.4′W.

Remnants of cirque glacier, on the north side of Kistufjall, from which its name is 

derived, by Eyjafjörður, northern Iceland (fig. 27). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 35). 

Shown as Glacier 05/D/1 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.).

Figure 116. Oblique aerial photograph of 

the Kistufellsjökull cirque glacier (on the right) 

on 16 September 2003. View looking to the

south toward the Kistufell peak. Photograph

no. 28075v by O.S., NEA.

Figure 115. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Kirkjujökull outlet glacier (on the 

left) on 14 September 2004. View looking to

the west toward the eastern margin of the 

LANGJÖKULL ice cap. The EIRÍKSJÖKULL

ice cap is in the left background. Photograph

no. 29301v by O.S., NEA.
130 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Kisujökull Hofsjökull Group	 64°38′N., 19°14′W.

Mountain glacier at the head of the river Kisa, for which it is named, in 

Kerlingarfjöll (figs. 4B, 24, 138). Named by Jón Eyþórsson and Steinþór Sigurðsson 

(ÁFÍ 1942, p. 20, 32).

Klakkajökull Hofsjökull Group	 64°52′N., 18°29′W.

Misspelling for Klakksjökull. Shown on AK5 (1981 and 1996) and on C761 

(1914I).

Klakksjökull Hofsjökull Group	 64°52′N., 18°29′W.

Outlet glacier in the eastern part of HOFSJÖKULL (figs. 4A, 75, 86). Klakkajökull

is a misspelling. It first appeared on official maps in 1978 [AK5 (1978)]. Cited by 

Björnsson (1988, p. 64, 66). Named for Klakkur, a mountain peak.

Fremri-Lambárjökull Hestárjökull Kistujökull Sælujökull nyrðri Sælujökull syðri

Figure 118. Oblique aerial photograph of the Kistujökull cirque glacier on 6 September 2000. View looking to the southeast. The Sælujökull 

nyrðri and Sælujökull syðri cirque glaciers are on the left; Kistujökull is on the right. Several remnants of unnamed mountain glaciers are situated

in between. In the right background beyond Kistujökull are the Fremri-Lambárjökull cirque glacier (left) and Hestárjökull mountain glacier (right).

Photograph no. 24042v by O.S., NEA.

Figure 117. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Kistufjallsjökull cirque glacier on 

6 September 2000. View looking to the

southwest at the head of Glerárdalur.

Kistufjallsjökull is on the eastern slope 

of the Kistufjall mountain on the right.

The lower part of the Glerárdalsjökull 

cirque glacier is on the left. Photograph

no. 24086v by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 131

Klaufabrekknajökull	 Norðurlandsjöklar	 65°53.6′N., 18°48.5′W.

Cirque glacier on the north side of Gimbrarhnjúkur mountain, Svarfaðardalur, 

northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 113, 119). Cited erroneously in Stötter (1991, p. 57) 

as Klaufabrekkujökull. Shown on map in Stötter (1991, fig. 21) as glacier no. 46. 

Named for Klaufabrekkur farmstead, so the name should be Klaufabrekknajökull.

Klaufabrekknajökull eystri	 Norðurlandsjöklar	 65°54.4′N., 18°47.1′W.

Cirque glacier at the head of Klaufabrekknadalur, Fljót, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, 

C, 113, 156). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 35). Shown as Glacier 04/S/05 on maps in 

Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Named for Klaufabrekknadalur.

Klaufabrekknajökull vestri	 Norðurlandsjöklar	 65°53.8′N., 18°49.1′W.

Cirque glacier at the head of Klaufabrekknadalur, Fljót, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, 

C, 113, 119). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 35). Shown as Glacier 04/S/04 on maps in 

Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Named for Klaufabrekknadalur.

Klifandajökull Mýrdalsjökull Group	 63°32′N., 19°13′W.

Alternative name for Klifurárjökull. Cited by Eyþórsson (1931, p. 34). Named for 

the Klifandi River. Klifandijökull is an alternative declination.

K e r l i n g a j ö k u l l

K l a u f a b r e k k n a j ö k u l l

Klaufabrekknajökul l vestri

Figure 119. Oblique aerial photograph of the Klaufabrekknajökull cirque glacier (left) on 6 September 2000. View looking to the west. The 

Klaufabrekknajökull vestri cirque glacier is in the center; the Kerlingajökull cirque glacier is on the right. Photograph no. 24021v by O.S., NEA.
132 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Klifandijökull Mýrdalsjökull Group	 63°32′N., 19°13′W.

Alternative name for Klifurárjökull. Klifandajökull is an alternative declination. 

Cited by Jón Eyþórsson in ÁFÍ 1935 (p. 73). Named for the Klifandi River.

Klifurárjökull Mýrdalsjökull Group	 63°32′N., 19°13′W.

Outlet glacier on the southern margin of MÝRDALSJÖKULL (figs. 3A, 120, 

150, 171). Alternative names are Klifandajökull and Klifandijökull. Shown on the 

following maps: AB59 (1955 and 1973; not shown on 1941 or 1945 editions), AK6 

(1996), and C761 (1812II). Named after the Klifurá river.

Figure 120. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Klifurárjökull outlet glacier on 

26 July 1996. View looking to the north

toward the southern margin of the 

MÝRDALSJÖKULL ice cap. Photograph 

no. 18293 by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 133

KLOFAJÖKULL	 Vatnajökull Group	 64°49′N., 17°42′W.

63°52′N., 15°23′W.

Historic name for VATNAJÖKULL (fig. 2A). Cited by Ólafsson [1772 (1975, v. II, 

p. 87, and in several other sections)], Olavius [1780 (1965, v. 2, p. 64)], Pálsson 

[1795, §12 and in 7 other sections (2004, p. 41); 1794 map of KLOFAJÖKULL 

or VATNAJÖKULL (Tab. I) (2004, p. 40)], and NCOI (as Klofa Iökull). Shown 

on UÍ2, GMIP, and GMIT as VATNAJÖKULL or KLOFAJÖKULL. Cited by 

Thoroddsen (1911, p. 38). The origin of the name is uncertain, but Pálsson [1795 

(2004, p. 41)] points out its serrated form in Austur-Skaftafellssýsla as a reason.

Klofajökull Langjökull Group	 64°48′N., 20°22′W.

Outlet glacier on the northern margin of EIRÍKSJÖKULL (figs. 5, 30). Stórijökull

is an alternative name. Named by Thoroddsen (1915, p. 82) because of the gully it 

occupies. Shown on the following maps: AB45 (1968), AK5 (1946, 1948, 1988), 

and C761 (1714I).

KNAPPAFELLSJÖKULL	 Vatnajökull Group	 64°06′N., 16°56′W.

63°55′N., 16°25′W.

Historic name for ÖRÆFAJÖKULL (fig. 2A). HNAPPAFELLSJÖKULL is an 

alternative spelling. Cited in Annálar íslenzkir [14th century (1888, p. 226, 348, 

360)], and by Oddur Einarsson [1585 (1971, p. 43), Ólafsson (1749, p. 37), P.B. 

Vídalín [1754, V, §7 (Þórarinsson, 1965, p. 41)], Jakobsson (1757, p. 26, 28, 29, 

34), and Ólafsson [1772 (1975, v. II, p. 105; he divides ÖRÆFAJÖKULL into two 

parts: SANDFELLSJÖKULL on the west and KNAPPAFELLSJÖKULL on the 

east)]. Shown on NCOI as Knappafells Iökull. Named for the volcano Knappafell, 

an historic name for ÖRÆFAJÖKULL.

KNAPPAVALLAJÖKLAR	 Vatnajökull Group	 64°06′N., 16°56′W.

63°55′N., 16°25′W.

Name used by Oddsson [1638 (1942, p. 100)] in reference to ÖRÆFAJÖKULL

(fig. 2A). Named for the Hnappavellir (Knappavellir) farmstead.

Kolbeinsdalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar	 65°42′N., 18°49′W.

Valley glacier at the eastern bifurcation (Austurdalur) of Kolbeinsdalur that 

is the easternmost of the two glaciers that are part of the compound glacier, 

Tungnahryggsjökull, Tröllaskagi (figs. 8A, C, 121). Tungnahryggsjökull eystri is 

an alternative name. Cited by Pálsson (1945, p. 133). It is named after Kolbeinsdalur 

valley.

Kolkujökull Norðurlandsjöklar	 65°41′N., 18°50′W.

Alternative name for Tungnahryggsjökull. Cited by Eyþórsson (1956b, p. 23). 

Named for the Kolka River.

Kotajökull Norðurlandsjöklar	 65°54.6′N., 17°45.4′W.

Mountain glacier at the head of Vesturdalur, a fork of Kotadalur, in Víknafjöll, 

northern Iceland (figs. 8B, C, 61, 112, 122). Cited in Erlendsson (1950, p. 64) 

and Sigurðsson (1954, p. 22). Shown on map in ÁFÍ 1992 (p. 46). Named for the 

abandoned Kot farmstead.
134 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Figure 121. Oblique aerial photograph of the Kolbeinsdalsjökull valley glacier on 6 September 2000. View looking to the south; Kolbeinsdalsjökull

is on the left, the eastern part of moraine-covered Tungnahryggsjökull, a compound mountain glacier on the right separated by Tungnahryggur. The

lower reaches of the Lambárjökull mountain glacier is on the right margin of the photograph. Photograph no. 23996v by O.S., NEA.

Figure 122. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Kotajökull mountain glacier on 

15 September 2003. View looking to the south.

Photograph no. 27742v by O.S., NEA.

Kotárjökull Vatnajökull Group	 63°57′N., 16°44′W.

Outlet glacier on the southwestern margin of ÖRÆFAJÖKULL, southern part of 

VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 26A, 123, 188). Cited by Hannesson (1958, p. 304) 

and in ÁFÍ 1979 (p. 92). Shown on the following maps: AB87 (1972), and sérkort 

Skaftafell AB 87/88 (1991). Named for the Kotá river.

Kóngsstaðajökull Norðurlandsjöklar	 65°46.3′N., 18°41.3′W.

Cirque glacier on the north side of Krosshólsfjall mountain, Skíðadalur, northern 

Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 59). Cited in Escritt (n.d., p. 35) and Stötter (1991, p. 56). 

Shown as Glacier 05/D/21 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.), and on 

map in Stötter (1991, fig. 21) as glacier no. 24. Named for Kóngsstaðir farm.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 135

Figure 123. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Kotárjökull outlet glacier on 

28 September 2002. View looking to the

northeast toward the southwestern margin 

of the ÖRÆFAJÖKULL internal ice cap. 

Kotárjökull is on the left; the doubletongued Rótarfjallsjökull outlet glacier 

is on the right; both extend almost to the 

lowland. The Gljúfursárjökull outlet glacier 

is visible on the right. The Rótarfjallshnjúkur

nunatak can be seen higher up in the 

glacier. Photograph no. 26633v by

O.S., NEA.

Krossárjökull Mýrdalsjökull Group	 63°41′N., 19°22′W.

Outlet glacier on the western margin of MÝRDALSJÖKULL (figs. 3A, 95, 124, 

150). Cited by Jóhannes Briem in J7 (p. 58) and by Tómasson (1996, p. 79). Shown 

on C761 (1812II), AK6 (1996), and maps in Tómasson (1996, p. 19, 69). Named for 

the Krossá river.

“MERKURJÖKULL” “HÁBUNGA” “GOÐABUNGA”

Figure 124. Oblique aerial photograph of the Krossárjökull outlet glacier on 4 August 1999. View looking to the east toward the western margin

of the MÝRDALSJÖKULL ice cap. An unnamed outlet glacier is on the left; Krossárjökull is on the right. The “MERKURJÖKULL”, “HÁBUNGA”, and

“GOÐABUNGA” internal ice domes are in the background. Photograph no. 22784 by O.S., NEA.
136 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Kvarnárjökull Norðurlandsjöklar	 65°46.2′N., 18°33′W.

Debris-covered valley glacier at the head of Kvarnárdalur, Tröllaskagi, northern Iceland 

(figs. 8A, C, 125). Cited in Escritt (n.d., p. 36), ÁFÍ 1991 (p. 33), and Stötter (1991, 

p. 56). Shown as Glacier 05/D/34 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.), and 

on map in Stötter (1991, fig. 21) as glacier no. 5. Named for the Kvarná river.

Kverkjökull Vatnajökull Group	 64°43′N., 16°39′W.

Outlet glacier on the northern margin of VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 29A, 38A, B, 126, 

188). The name Kverkfjölls Jøkel is cited in Bruun (1927, p. 26). Cited in Hannesson 

(1953, p. 22, 26, 27) and J18 (1969, p. 398, 399). Shown on the following maps: AB85 

(1945), C762 (6021III), AÍ8 (1967), AK8 (1997), C761 (2114III), and on location map 

(Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 9). Named for the Kverk canyon out of which it descends.

Figure 125. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Kvarnárjökull cirque glacier on 

15 September 2003. View looking to

the south. Debris covers more than half

the glacier. Photograph no. 030915 by

O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 137

Kverkjökull Vatnajökull Group	 64°46′N., 15°31′W.

Abandoned name for an outlet glacier, now called Kverkkvíslarjökull, located east 

of Eyjabakkajökull on the northern margin of VATNAJÖKULL. On map in ÁFÍ 

1987 (p. 69) and on map in Guttormsson (1998, p. 69). 

Kverkkvíslarjökull Vatnajökull Group	 64°40′N., 15°31′W.

Outlet glacier on the northeastern margin of VATNAJÖKULL, east of 

Eyjabakkajökull (figs. 2A, 127, 188). The name replaced a former name 

Kverkjökull. Named by Hjörleifur Guttormsson for the Kverkvísl creek 

(Guttormsson, 1998, p. 14).

Kvíahnúksjökull Snæfellsjökull	 64°48′N., 23°45′W.

Outlet glacier on the southeast side of SNÆFELLSJÖKULL (figs. 6, 102, 128). 

Shown on special map of outermost part of Snæfellsnes (Valsson, n.d.). Named for 

the Kvíahnúkur volcanic crater.

Figure 127. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Kverkkvíslarjökull outlet glacier on 

28 September 2002. View looking to the

south toward the northeastern margin of the 

VATNAJÖKULL ice cap. Kverkkvíslarjökull is 

in the middle; the Kvíslarjökull outlet glacier 

is on the left; part of the eastern margin of 

Eyjabakkajökull, a surge-type outlet glacier,

is on the right. Photograph no. 26761v by

O.S., NEA.

Figure 126. Oblique aerial photograph of 

the Kverkjökull outlet glacier on 25 July 1973.

View looking to the southeast toward the 

northern margin of the VATNAJÖKULL

ice cap. Photograph by R.S.W., USGS.
138 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Kvíárjökull Vatnajökull Group	 63°57′N., 16°29′W.

Outlet glacier on the southeastern margin of ÖRÆFAJÖKULL, southern part of 

VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 26A, 129, 188). Cited by Magnússon [1702–1714 

(1955, p. 16)], Thoroddsen (1892, p. 128), and AFÍ 1937 (p. 31). Shown on the 

following maps: FB87 S.A. (1905), AÍ9 (1976), AB87 (1972), AK9 (1997), JÍB, 

JÍN9, C762 (6018I/6018IV), AB87/88, the map on the reverse of sérkort Skaftafell 

(1991), and on location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 9). Named for the Kvíá river.

Kvíslajökull Hofsjökull Group	 64°51′N., 19°09′W.

Outlet glacier on the western margin of HOFSJÖKULL (figs. 4A, 86, 130). 

Kvíslarjökull is a misspelling, shown on AK5 (1967, 1968, and 1978). It was first 

shown on official maps in 1988 [AK5 (1988)] and is shown on C761 (1814I). 

Named for the many glacier streams that flow to the west and northwest from 

the western part of HOFSJÖKULL as tributaries of Blanda, collectively called 

Blöndukvíslar. Anecdotal evidence suggests that Kvíslajökull may be a surge-type 

glacier (Björnsson and others, 2003, p. 85).

Kvíslarjökull Vatnajökull Group	 64°40′N., 15°28′W.

Outlet glacier on the northeastern margin of VATNAJÖKULL, east of 

Eyjabakkajökull (figs. 2A, 127, 188). Shown on map in ÁFÍ 1987 (p. 69). Named 

for the Bergkvísl innri river by Hjörleifur Guttormsson (1998, p. 14).

Köldukvíslarjökull	 Vatnajökull Group	 64°33′N., 17°58′W.

Broad, lobate, surge-type outlet glacier on the northwestern margin of

VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 131A, B, 188). Cited by Bessason (1949, p. 5) and in J1 

(p. 13). Shown on the following maps: AB76 (1977), AÍ5 (1967), AK5 (1996), and 

C761 (2014III). Named for the Kaldakvísl river.

Figure 128. Oblique aerial photograph of the Kvíahnúksjökull outlet glacier on 18 October 2001. View looking to

the north toward the southern margin of the SNÆFELLSJÖKULL ice cap. Hyrningsjökull is on the extreme right. The 

Kvíahnúkur volcanic crater is in the right foreground. Photograph no. 25783h by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 139

Figure 130. Oblique aerial photograph of 

the Kvíslajökull outlet glacier on 22 July 1999.

View looking to the east at the western margin 

of the HOFSJÖKULL ice cap. Photograph 

no. 22661 by O.S., NEA.

Figure 129. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Kvíárjökull outlet glacier on 

10 September 1986. View looking to the

northwest at the southeastern margin of the 

ÖRÆFAJÖKULL internal ice cap. Kvíárjökull

is distinguished by its prominent terminal

moraine grading into its equally prominent

lateral moraines and by the fact that it is

the glacier closest to the ocean in Iceland. 

Photograph no. 860910-1-5 by O.S., NEA.
140 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Dyngjujökull

Rjúpnabrekkujökull

“BÁRÐARBUNGA”

Köldukvíslarjökull

Hamarinn

Sylgjujökull

Tungnárjökull

Síðujökull

Pálsfjall

Grænalónsjökull

Grænalón

Þórðarhyrna

“HÁABUNGA”

Grímsvötn

Grímsfjall

Skaftárjökull

Skaftárkatlar

Skeiðarárjökull

0 10 20 KILOMETERS

64°30'N

17°W

18°W

A

Figure 131. A (at left), Enlargement

of Landsat 1 MSS false-color composite

image of the Köldukvíslarjökull

outlet glacier on 22 September 1973.

Landsat image 1426–12070 from the

USGS, EROS Data Center, Sioux Falls,

SD 57198.

B (at right), Oblique aerial photograph of

Köldukvíslarjökull on 23 August 1998.

View looking to the northeast toward the 

western margin of the VATNAJÖKULL

ice cap. The “BÁRÐARBUNGA” internal

ice dome is in the center background. 

Photograph no. 20940v by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 141

Kötlufalljökull	 Mýrdalsjökull Group	 63°35′N., 18°49′W.

Historic alternative name for Kötlujökull. Falljökull was a term used for a steep 

outlet glacier. Cited by Pálsson [1826 (1907–1915, p. 267, 269, 271)]. Named for 

the Katla volcano.

KÖTLUGJÁRJÖKULL	 Mýrdalsjökull Group	 63°48′N., 19°26′W.

63°31′N., 18°47′W.

Historic, alternative name for MÝRDALSJÖKULL (fig. 3A). Cited on Knopf’s 

1734 map (Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 144) as Køtligiaa Iøkul, as Kötligiaa Iökull on 

Niels Horrebow’s 1752 map (Sigurðsson, 1978, p. 157), on the 1771 edition of 

NCOI as Katlegiaa Iökull and as Kötlugiaa Iökull on the 1780 edition of NCOI, and 

by Pálsson [1795, §16 (2004, p. 80; see also Endnote No. 225, p. 168)]. Named for 

the Kötlugjá volcano.

KÖTLUJÖKULL	 Mýrdalsjökull Group	 63°48′N., 19°26′W.

63°31′N., 18°47′W.

Historic, alternative name for MÝRDALSJÖKULL (fig. 3A). Cited by Ólafsson 

[1772, §775 (1975, v. 2, p. 96)] and Stefánsson [1839 (1997, p. 255-257)]. Named 

for the Katla volcano.

B
142 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Kötlujökull Mýrdalsjökull Group	 63°35′N., 18°49′W.

Outlet glacier on the southeastern margin of MÝRDALSJÖKULL (figs. 3A, 132, 

150). Kötlufalljökull and Höfðabrekkujökull are alternative names. Kötlujökull

clearly has historic and glaciological precedence for the southeasternmost outlet 

glacier from MÝRDALSJÖKULL. During the latter half of the 20th century, 

however, various geologists, local inhabitants, and cartographers have sometimes 

used Höfðabrekkujökull and Kötlujökull at other times. Shown on JÍK6, JÍB, 

AÍ6 (1977 and 1981) and FB69NV (1957), Höfðabrekkujökull is shown as an 

alternative name. It was cited by Thoroddsen (1906, p. 184), Þórarinsson [J9, 

p. 7 (perspective sketchmap by Steinþór Sigurðsson); he noted (p. 14) that it is 

also called Höfðabrekkujökull], ÁFÍ 1960 (p. 44; shown as both Kötlujökull and 

Höfðabrekkujökull), and on the 1985 1:100,000-scale sérkort LandmannalaugarÞórsmörk as Höfðabrekkujökull (Kötlujökull). Other citations to Kötlujökull

are as follows: Jón Eyþórsson (J2, p. 32), Jón Jónsson (J32, 1983, sketch map on 

p. 62), Bryndís Brandsdóttir and William Menke (J39, sketch map on p. 96), Oddur 

Sigurðsson (J42, oblique aerial photograph on p. 30; Höfðabrekkujökull given as a 

alternative name in caption; J45, 1998 cited in text and on sketch map on p. 8 and 

in table on p. 18), Olszewski and Weckwerth (J47, 1999, shown on sketch map 

on p. 72; however, caption says Höfðabrekkujökull with Kötlujökull given as an 

alternative name), Guðrún Larsen (J49, 2000, sketch maps on p. 2, 8, 14), and Helgi 

Björnsson and others (J49, 2000, sketch maps on p. 32, 38 and in table on p. 39). 

Shown on location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 8). Named for the Katla volcano.

Figure 132. Oblique aerial photograph of the Kötlujökull outlet glacier on 25 July 1973. View looking to the northwest toward the southeastern

margin of the MÝRDALSJÖKULL ice cap. Tephra covers the terminus. Photograph by R.S.W., USGS.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 143

L

Lambadalsskarðsfönn Vestfjarðajöklar 65°56′N., 23°09′W.

Mountain glacier by Lambadalsskarð at the head of Seljalandsdalur, Álftafjörður, 

Vestfirðir (figs. 7B, 133). Cited by Rist (1985) as Lambadalsskarð (fönn). Named for 

the Lambadalsskarð mountain pass.

Lambahraunsjöklar Hofsjökull Group 64°58′N., 18°52′W.

The collective name for two lobes of an outlet glacier, between Krókafell and 

Tvífell and between Tvífell and an unnamed mountain, on the northern margin 

of HOFSJÖKULL (figs. 4A, 86, 134). Cited by Sigbjarnarson (1982, p. 59). 

The western lobe encompasses the eastern part of Sátujökull. The eastern lobe is 

synonymous with Tvífellsjökull. Named for the two Lambahraun lava flows.

Figure 134. Oblique aerial photograph of 

the Lambahraunsjökull outlet glacier. View 

looking to the southeast at the northern margin 

of the HOFSJÖKULL ice cap. The Tvífellsjökull

ice-flow basin is on the left. Photograph 

no. 22648v by O.S., NEA.

Figure 133. Oblique aerial photograph of 

the Lambadalsskarðsfönn mountain glaciers 

on 8 September 2001. View looking to the 

south. Photograph no. 010908 by O.S., NEA.
144 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Lambahraunsjökull Hofsjökull Group 64°58′N., 18°52′W.

Outlet glacier, between Krókafell and Tvífell, on the northern margin of 

HOFSJÖKULL (figs. 4A, 86, 134) that encompasses the eastern part of Sátujökull. 

Cited in J37 [p. 86 (shown as Lambahraunsjökull/Sátujökull) and p. 89 (distinction 

made between Lambahraunsjökull and Sátujökull)]. Named for western branch of 

Lambahraun lava flow.

“Lambajökull” Suðurland 63°26′N., 18°38′W.

Jökulhlaup deposit on Mýrdalssandur from jökulhlaup from Kötlujökull. 

“Lambeyjarjökull” is a probable alternative name cited by Pálsson [1826 

(1907–1915, p. 270, 277)]. See figure 10A and table 10. Cited by Magnússon 

[1702–1714 (1955, p. 27)], Steingrímsson [1788 (1907–1915, p. 191)], Benediktsson 

[1840 (1997, p. 221)], Sigurðarson [1840 (1997, p. 237)], and Jónsson (1983, on 

map on p. 62); also on the following maps: FB69NV (1957), AB69 (1990), C762 

(5817III), C761 (1911IV). Named for lambs like the Lambey farmstead.

Lambatungnajökull Vatnajökull Group 64°30′N., 15°19′W.

Outlet glacier on the southeastern margin of VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 26A, 

135, 188). Þórðarjökull is an alternative name. Lambatungujökull is a mistaken 

name. Cited in ÁFÍ 1937 (ff p. 52, 71). Shown on AK8 (1997). Named for the 

Lambatungur common.

Figure 135. Oblique aerial photograph of the Lambatungnajökull outlet glacier on 1 October 1990. View looking to the northwest toward the 

eastern margin of the VATNAJÖKULL ice cap. Photograph no. 12045v by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 145

Lambatungujökull Vatnajökull Group 64°30′N., 15°19′W.

Mistaken name for Lambatungnajökull. Cited by Thorarinsson (1943, p. 5-7). 

Shown on the following maps: AÍ8 (1946), C762 (6120I/6120II), and AB96 (1972)/

AB106 (1971).

Lambárdalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°34′N., 18°15′W.

A 3-km-long, half-debris-covered valley glacier north of Kerling that is the source of 

Lambá, Tröllaskagi, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 33, 35, 114, 136). Lambárjökull is 

an alternative name. Cited by Einarsson (1942, p. 7), Escritt (n.d., p. 36), and in ÁFÍ 

1991 (p. 35). Shown as Glacier 05/G/05 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt 

(n.d.). Named for the Lambárdalur valley.

Lambárdalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°43′N., 18°34′W.

Mountain glacier northeast of Hafrárhnjúkur, southeast of and contiguous with 

Heiðinnamannajökull at the head of Lambárdalur, Tröllaskagi, northern Iceland 

(figs. 8A, C, 76, 88, 169). Lambárjökull is an alternative name. Cited in ÁFÍ 1990 

(p. 134) and by Häberle (1991, p. 185). Shown on map (Häberle (1991, p. 105) as 

glacier no. 8. Named for the Lambárdalur valley.

Lambárdalsjökull Sveipsjökull Glerárdalsjökull Kistufjallsjökull

Figure 136. Oblique aerial photograph of the Lambárdalsjökull valley glacier on 6 September 2000. View looking to the south toward the 

northern slope of the Kerling Mountain. Debris covers more than half of the glacier. In the right background (left to right) are the Sveipsjökull and 

Glerárdalsjökull cirque glaciers and the Kistufjallsjökull mountain glacier. Photograph no. 24107v by O.S., NEA.
146 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Lambárdalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°33.7′N., 18°23.8′W.

Cirque glacier in Þverárdalur, Öxnadalur (figs. 8A, C, 35, 101). Cited by 

Escritt (n.d., p. 36) and by Häberle (1991, p. 186) who indicates two glaciers: 

Lambárdalsjökull nyrðri and Lambárdalsjökull syðri. Shown as Glacier 05/F/21 on 

maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Named for the Lambárdalur valley.

Lambárdalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°35′N., 18°25′W.

Alternative name for Lambárjökull in the drainage basin of Bægisá, Öxnadalur. 

Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 36) and Häberle (1991, p. 185). Shown as Glacier 05/F/22 

on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.).

Lambárjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°36′N., 19°06′W.

Cirque glacier in Lambárdalur, Hjaltadalur, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 60). Cited 

by Escritt (n.d., p. 35). Shown as Glacier 04/Q/02 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) 

and Escritt (n.d.). Named for Lambá creek.

Lambárjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°42.2′N., 18°55.7′W.

Mountain glacier at the head of Kolbeinsdalur, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 121). 

Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 35). Shown as Glacier 04/Q/09 on maps in Escritt (1975, 

p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Named for Lambá creek.

Lambárjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°33.3′N., 18°15.2′W.

Alternative name for Kerlingarjökull, a cirque glacier on the east side of mount 

Kerling, Eyjafjörður, northern Iceland. Lambárjökull and Kerlingarjökull are two 

names for the same glacier. Kerlingarjökull has precedence. Cited by Escritt (n.d., 

p. 36). Shown as Glacier 05/G/06 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). 

Named for Lambá creek.

Lambárjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°35′N., 18°25′W.

Cirque glacier west of Bægisárjökull and north of Lambárhnjúkur at the head of 

Lambárdalur, Tröllaskagi, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 35, 137). Lambárdalsjökull 

is an alternative name. Cited in ÁFÍ 1991 (p. 84). Named for the Lambá creek.

Figure 137. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Lambárjökull cirque glacier on 

15 September 2003. View looking to the 

southeast. Part of the Bægisárjökull surgetype cirque glacier is on the left. Photograph 

no. 27663v by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 147

Lambárjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°43′N., 18°34′W.

Alternative name for Lambárdalsjökull. Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 36) and Häberle 

(1991, p. 185). Shown as Glacier 05/F/04 on maps by Escritt (1975, p. 62) and 

Escritt (n.d.).

Lambárjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°38.3′N., 18°43.8′W.

Mountain glacier in Barkárdalur, Hörgárdalur, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 17). 

Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 36) and by Häberle (1991, p. 185). Shown as Glacier 

05/F/08 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Named for Lambá creek.

Lambárjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°49.6′N., 18°28.7′W.

Mountain glacier on the west side of Lambárfjall, for which it is named, at the head 

of Þverárdalur, a tributary in Þorvaldsdalur, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 51). Cited 

by Escritt (1975, p. 36). Shown as Glacier 05/E/03 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) 

and Escritt (n.d.).

“Lambeyjarjökull” Suðurland 63°26′N., 18°38′W.

Jökulhlaup deposit from jökulhlaup from Kötlujökull. Probably the same as 

“Lambajökull.” Cited by Pálsson [1826 (1907–1915, p. 270, 277)]. See figure 

10A and table 10. Named for abandoned Lambey farmstead.

“Langafellsjökull” Suðurland 63°58′N., 16°51′W.

Jökulhlaup deposit from jökulhlaup from ÖRÆFAJÖKULL. Cited by Thorarinsson 

(1958, p. 34) and ÁFÍ 1993 (p. 85). See figure 10B and table 10. Curiously, no 

Langafell is known in the vicinity, so the origin of the name remains speculative.

Langafönn Hofsjökull Group 64°37′N., 19°15′W.

Mountain glacier north of Dalakollur in Kerlingarfjöll (figs. 4B, 45, 138). Named by 

Jón Eyþórsson and Steinþór Sigurðsson (ÁFÍ 1942, p. 20, 34; shown on perspective 

drawing, p. 5). Shown on unpublished, 1:50,000-scale sketch map of Kerlingarfjöll 

(sérkort). Named for its oblong form.

Langafönn* Austurland 64°42′N., 14°33′W.

Snow patch at Löngufannarhnjúkar, Hálsfjall, Hamarsdalur, eastern Iceland 

(table 11). Cited in ÁFÍ 2002 (p. 78, map on p. 72). Named for its oblong form.

Langafönn* Suðurland 63°59′N., 19°42′W.

Snow patch on the northwest flank of Hekla, north of Toppgígur (table 11). Named 

for its oblong form. Cited by Kjartansson in ÁFÍ 1945 (p. 126, 130).

Langanesjökull Norðurlandsjöklar

Unknown location of mountain (?) glacier in northeastern Iceland. Cited by Oddsson 

[1638 (1917, p. 62)] as “Langanessjökull” and Oddsson [1638 (1942, p. 103)]. 

Named after the Langanes peninsula.

LANGIJÖKULL Langjökull Group 64°54′N., 20°36′W.

64°28′N., 19°46′W.

Historic name of LANGJÖKULL (fig. 5). Cited by Pálsson [1795, §17 (2004)] and 

shown on his 1792 map of LANGIJÖKULL [1795, Tab. III (2004, p. 87)]. Named 

for its oblong form.
148 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

LANGJÖKULL Langjökull Group 64°54′N., 20°36′W.

64°28′N., 19°46′W.

Iceland’s second largest ice cap (figs. 5, 139). It is located in west-central Iceland 

and has eight named outlet glaciers, Hagafellsjökull eystri, Hagafellsjökull 

vestari, Flosajökull, Kirkjujökull, Leiðarjökull, Norðurjökull, Suðurjökull, 

and Þrístapajökull, one contiguous ice-cap (GEITLANDSJÖKULL), and an 

internal ice dome, “BALDJÖKULL.” Five of LANGJÖKULL’s named outlet 

glaciers [Þrístapajökull, Norðurjökull (Nyrðriskriðjökull and Nyrðri-Skriðjökull) 

Suðurjökull (Fremri-Skriðjökull), Hagafellsjökull eystri (Eystri-Hagafellsjökull, 

Hagavatnsjökull syðri), and Hagafellsjökull vestari (Vestri-Hagafellsjökull, 

Hagafellsjökull ytri, Hagafellsjökull vestri, and Vestari-Hagafellsjökull)] are 

shown on maps and in articles with alternative names or spellings. Hagafellsjökull 

eystri and Hagafellsjökull vestari are both surge-type outlet glaciers. Anecdotal 

evidence suggests that Suðurjökull and Þrístapajökull are also surge-type glaciers 

(Björnsson and others, 2003, p. 85). LANGJÖKULL is named for its oblong shape. 

Ólafsson [1772 (1975, v. 2, p. 4, 87, 101)] described LANGJÖKULL in 1753 but 

confused HOFSJÖKULL with LANGJÖKULL. NCOI shows Eireks=Iökull , 

Blaafells=Iökull, and Balld=Iökull, north to south, and Geitlands Iökull to the west of 

Huitaar Vatn (Hvítárvatn), where LANGJÖKULL should be; they show Hofs=Iökull 

and Lange=Iökull, so while the name was used, it was not correctly located geographically. It is cited in Pálsson [1795, §17 (2004, p. 86; see also Endnote no. 100, p. 158)]. 

Borgarjökull Kisujökull

Mænisjökull

HOFSJÖKULL

L

a

n

g

a

f

ö

n

n

L

a

n

g

a

f

ö

n

n

B o t n a j ö k u l l

Figure 138. Oblique aerial photograph of the Langafönn mountain glacier (lower left) on 23 August 1998. Parts of the Mænisjökull (left center), 

Botnajökull (lower right), Kisujökull (right center), and Borgarjökull (upper right center) mountain glaciers are shown. In the upper right is part of the 

western margin of the HOFSJÖKULL ice cap. Photograph no. 20889 by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 149

Pálsson [1795, Tab. III. (2004, p. 87)] drew a map of LANGIJÖKULL in 1792, 

divided into northern (Bald- or Ball-Jökull), central (Bláfellsjökull), and southwestern 

(Geitlands-Jökull) parts. UÍ1 (Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 256) and GMIP both showed 

LÁNGJÖKULL. All 20th century maps show LANGJÖKULL: GMIT, C762, 

JÍB, JÍK, AB (45, 46, 55, 56), ÁÍ5 (1981), AK5 (1988), C761 (1713I, 1714I, 1714II, 

1714III, 1814III, and 1814IV).

Lágjökull Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°37′N., 19°26′W.

Historic name applied to the “middle” of EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL (the historic 

name that included modern EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL and MÝRDALSJÖKULL 

(figs. 3A, B). Cited by Pálsson [1795, §16 (2004, p. 79; see also Endnote no. 218, 

p. 167)]. Shown on Pálsson’s 1795 perspective drawing (Tab. XII) and map of 

EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL (Tab. II) [Pálsson, 1795 (2004, p. 77)]. The name implies a 

comparatively low setting.

Lágjökull* Suðurland 63°37′N., 19°26′W.

Snow patch in the saddle between EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL and MÝRDALSJÖKULL (table 11). The area is called Fimmvörðuháls on modern maps (for example, 

JÍB) and did not have ice thick enough to flow during the historic time (Sigurðsson, 

2004). On JÍN6, the area is shown as snow free. On C762 (5717I), the area is erroneously shown as “Eyjafjallajökull.” The name implies a comparatively low setting.

0 5 10 KILOMETERS

20°W

21°W

64°45'N

64°30'N

Figure 139. Satellite image of the 

LANGJÖKULL ice cap on 27 August 1980. 

Landsat 2 MSS false-color composite image 

22044-12072 from Canada Centre for Remote 

Sensing, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
150 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

“Lágjökull” Suðurland 63°26′N., 18°41′W.

Jökulhlaup deposit from jökulhlaup from Kötlujökull. Cited by Pálsson [1826 

(1907–1915, p. 277)]. See figure 10 and table 10. Named in the tradition of the 

Lágey farmstead.

LÁNGJÖKULL Langjökull Group 64°54′N., 20°36′W.

64°28′N., 19°46′W.

A spelling variation of LANGJÖKULL (fig. 5). Shown on UÍ1, GMIP, and GMIT.

Leiðarjökull Langjökull Group 64°47′N., 19°47′W.

Outlet glacier on the northeastern margin of LANGJÖKULL (figs. 5, 139, 140), 

northwest of Fögruhlíð. Cited in ÁFÍ 2001 (p. 189) and in ÁFÍ 2004 (p. 291). 

Named by Pétur Þorleifsson for the heavily traveled winter route across the glacier 

to Hveravellir.

Figure 140. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Leiðarjökull outlet glacier on 

14 September 2004. View looking to the 

north toward the eastern margin of the 

LANGJÖKULL ice cap. The western 

margin of the HRÚTFELLSJÖKULL ice cap 

is visible on the bottom right. Photograph 

no. 29300h by O.S., NEA.

Leirufjarðarjökull Vestfjarðajöklar 66°11′N., 22°24′W.

Surge-type outlet glacier on the northwestern margin of DRANGAJÖKULL that 

flows toward Leirufjörður (figs. 7A, 37A, 141). Cited by Eyþórsson (1951, p. 16). 

Named for the Leirufjörður district. Shown on location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 5).

Leirujökull Vestfjarðajöklar 66°11′N., 22°24′W.

Historic alternative name for Leirufjarðarjökull. Cited by Magnússon [1702–1714 

(1955, p. 77) and by Thoroddsen (1914a, v. 2, p. 136). Named for the abandoned 

Leira farmstead.

Ljósurðarjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°48′N., 15°35′W.

Cirque glacier, one of two parallel glaciers (the other is the Dökkurðarjökull mountain glacier), conjoined along part of their lateral margins, on the northwest flank 

of Snæfell (figs. 2C, 15, 29A). Shown on Jenning’s (1952) 1937 map of Snæfell as 

B (see Thorarinsson, 1964, p. 71). The ablation area is covered with light-colored 

debris, for which it is named. Named by Hjartarson (2000, p. 2).
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 151

Ljótarjökull Vestfjarðajöklar 66°14′N., 22°14′W.

Outlet glacier on the northern margin of DRANGAJÖKULL that flows toward 

river Ljót, for which it is named (figs. 7A, 142). Named by Jón Eyþórsson (1935, 

p. 124).

Loðmundarjökull eystri Hofsjökull Group 64°39′N., 19°12′W.

Valley glacier in Kerlingarfjöll east of the Loðmundur mountain peak, for which it is 

named (figs. 4B, 24, 45). Alternative spellings are Eystri-Loðmundarjökull [shown 

on C761 (1814II)] and Innri-Loðmundarjökull (ÁFÍ 1942, p. 33). Cited in Ahlmann 

(1937, p. 219) and ÁFÍ 1942 (p. 19). Shown on unpublished, 1:50,000-scale sketch 

map of Kerlingarfjöll (sérkort). Shown on location map as Loðmundarjökull by 

Sigurðsson (1998, p. 10). 

Loðmundarjökull vestri Hofsjökull Group 64°39′N., 19°13′W.

Mountain glacier in Kerlingarfjöll west of the Loðmundur mountain peak, for which 

it is named (figs. 4B, 45). Alternative spellings are Vestri-Loðmundarjökull [shown 

on C761 (1814II)] and Ytri-Loðmundarjökull (ÁFÍ 1942, p. 19, 32). Cited in ÁFÍ 

2001 (p. 190; shown on map on p. 220).

Lónjökull Vestfjarðajöklar 66°07′N., 22°18′W.

Historic alternative spelling for the southwestern margin of DRANGAJÖKULL 

adjacent to the Kaldalón district, for which it is named. Cited by Olavius [1780 

(1965, v. 1, p. 209)].

Lónjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°36′N., 15°21′W.

Historic alternative spelling of Lónsjökull. Cited by Pálsson [1795 (2004), on his caption 

for perspective drawing, Tab. X (2004, p. 42) and on his 1794 map of KLOFAJÖKULL 

or VATNAJÖKULL, Tab. I (2004, p. 40)]. Named for the Lón district.

Figure 141. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Leirufjarðarjökull surge-type outlet 

glacier on 8 September 2001. View looking 

to the southeast at the northwestern 

margin of DRANGAJÖKULL ice cap. The 

“JÖKULBUNGA” internal ice dome is in the 

right background. Leirufjarðarjökull is at 

the end of a 6-year surge event. Photograph 

no. 25536v by O.S., NEA.
152 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Lónsjökull Vestfjarðajöklar 66°07′N., 22°18′W.

Historic name for the southwestern margin of DRANGAJÖKULL adjacent to

Kaldalón district for which it is named. Cited by Olavius [1780 (1965, v. 1, p. 157)] 

and Kålund [1877 (1984, v. II, p. 194)].

Lónsjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°36′N., 15°21′W.

Eastern part of VATNAJÖKULL in the watershed of Jökulsá í Lóni (fig. 2A). Cited 

by Ólafsson [1772 (1975, v. 2, p. 110), Pálsson [1795 §12 (2004, p. 47; see also 

Endnote no. 115, p. 159)], ÁFÍ 1974 (p. 14, 17), and ÁFÍ 1987 (p. 71–72).

Lónsjökull Langjökull Group 64°35′N., 20°33′W.

Outlet glacier on the southwestern margin of LANGJÖKULL (figs. 5, 143). Cited 

by Björnsson (2002, p. 137). Named by Pétur Þorleifsson for the Ísalón lake.

Löngukvíslarjökull Hofsjökull Group 64°54′N., 18°30′W.

On the northeastern part of HOFSJÖKULL on the north side of Miklafell, an 

ice-flow basin defined by surface topography during radio-echosounding surveys 

(figs. 4A, 86, 144). Named by Björnsson (1988, p. 64; Map 19, Glacier 20). [Note: In 

table 4.3 on p. 64, Löngukvíslarjökull is Glacier 19.] Named for the Langakvísl river.

Hrolleifsborg Reyðarbunga Hljóðabunga “JÖKULBUNGA”

Figure 142. Oblique aerial photograph of the Ljótarjökull outlet glacier on 8 September 2001. View looking to the southwest toward the 

northeastern margin of the DRANGAJÖKULL ice cap. From left to right, three outlet glaciers are visible: Reykjarfjarðarjökull, a surge-type outlet 

glacier, at the start of a surge, Þaralátursjökull, and Ljótarjökull, which is calving into the Ljótarvatn proglacial lake. To the right of the Hrolleifsborg 

mountain are the nunataks Reyðarbunga (left) and Hljóðabunga (right). To the right of Hljóðabunga are three ice cauldrons, probably related to ice 

deformation from the surge of Reykjarfjarðurjökull. Behind is the “JÖKULBUNGA” internal ice dome. Photograph no. 25587v by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 153

Figure 143. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Lónsjökull outlet glacier on 

15 September 2003. View looking to the 

north toward the southwestern margin of 

the LANGJÖKULL ice cap. A terminal 

moraine of Lónsjökull can be seen in 

the northeastern part of the lake. The 

GEITLANDSJÖKULL internal ice cap is 

on the left; the EIRÍKSJÖKULL ice cap 

is visible in the center background. 

Photograph no. 27575v by O.S., NEA.

Tungufönn

Figure 144. Oblique aerial photograph of the Löngukvíslarjökull ice-flow basin on 22 July 1999. View looking to the southwest toward the 

northeastern margin of the HOFSJÖKULL ice cap. Löngukvíslarjökull is on the right; the Tungufönn outlet glacier is on the left. Photograph 

no. 26641h by O.S., NEA.
154 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

M

Mávabyggðajökull Vatnajökull Group 64°05′N., 16°25′W.

One of three named ice streams described by Sigbjarnarson (1971, fig. 1, p. 51) 

comprising the four ice streams of the Breiðamerkurjökull outlet glacier of 

VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 26A, B, 188). Named for the Mávabyggðir nunataks.

Melrakkadalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°28′N., 18°32′W.

Mountain glacier in Melrakkadalur valley, for which it is named, Öxnadalur, 

Tröllaskagi (figs. 8A, C, 32). Cited by Häberle (1991, p. 185).

“MERKURJÖKULL” Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°39′N., 19°16′W.

Internal ice dome in MÝRDALSJÖKULL that lies adjacent to the Þórsmörk 

district, for which it is named (figs. 3A, 124). “ÞÓRSMERKURJÖKULL” is an 

alternative name. Merkurjökull is erroneously shown on the following maps in place of 

Entujökull: AB58 (1964), and AÍ6 (1973, 1977, 1981). Cited by Gunnarsson [1877 

(1949, p. 226)], Vigfússon (1892, p. 39), Thoroddsen (1892, p. 123), Eyþórsson 

(1935, p. 73 and 1945b, p. 154), and Tómasson (1996, p. 80). Shown on the following 

maps: AK6 (1996) and C761 (1812II) but mislocated.

Miðjökull Langjökull Group 64°45′N., 19°43′W.

One of the three named outlet glaciers of HRÚTFELLSJÖKULL (figs. 5, 97). 

Name given by Jón Eyþórsson (J8, p. 31). Cited in ÁFÍ 2001 (p. 190) as a provisional name. Name means the glacier in the middle.

“Miðjökull” Suðurland 63°55′N., 16°47′W.

Jökulhlaup deposits from jökulhlaup from ÖRÆFAJÖKULL. Cited in ÁFÍ 1937 

(p. 24), ÁFÍ 1993 (p. 87) and by Thorarinsson (1958, p. 33). See figure 10B and 

table 10. Named for its position in the middle of three between “Forarjökull” and 

“Grasjökull.”

MIÐLANDSJÖKULL Austfjarðajöklar 64°44′N., 14°58′W.

64°40′N., 14°52′W.

Historic alternative name for ÞRÁNDARJÖKULL used by the people in 

Fljótsdalshérað (Héraðsbúar) in earlier times for its central position in the country 

according to Pálsson’s Dagbók 1794 (1945, p. 375) and ÁFÍ 1974 (p. 115).

Miklafellsjökull Hofsjökull Group 64°52′N., 18°31′W.

On the northeastern part of HOFSJÖKULL, an ice-flow basin defined by surface 

topography during radio-echosounding surveys (figs. 4A, 86, 185, 193). Named 

by Björnsson (1988, p. 64; Map 19, Glacier 21). [Note: In table 4.3 on p. 64, 

Miklafellsjökull is Glacier 20]. Named for the Miklafell table mountain.

Miklukvíslarjökull Hofsjökull Group 64°41′N., 18°50′W.

On the southern part of HOFSJÖKULL, between Nauthagajökull and 

Blautukvíslarjökull, an ice-flow basin defined by surface topography during 

radio-echosounding surveys (figs. 4A, 86, 145). Named by Björnsson (1988, p. 64; 

Map 19, Glacier 6). Named for the Miklakvísl river.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 155

Mjóafellsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°52.9′N., 18°57.1′W.

Alternative name for Móafellsjökull. Cited in Þorvaldsson [1840 (1954, p. 184), 

ÁFÍ 1973 (p. 139, 140, 143). Named for the M(j)óafell farmstead.

Morsárjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°05′N., 16°55′W.

Outlet glacier on the southern margin of VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 26A, 146, 

166B, 188). Cited by Pálsson [1795, §14 (2004, p. 65)] and Thoroddsen (1892, 

p. 129). Shown on the following maps: AÍ9 (1952), AK9 (1997), AB87 (1972), 

FB87 S.V. and N.V. (1905), C762 (6019III), sérkort Skaftafell AB87/88 (1991), 

and on location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 9). Named for the Morsá river.

Morsárjökull Austfjarðajöklar 64°36′N., 15°04′W.

Outlet glacier that has disappeared from the western margin of HOFSJÖKULL

(eystri). Cited by Thoroddsen (1892, p. 130–131). Named for the Morsá river.

Móafellsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°52.9′N., 18°57.1′W.

 Mountain glacier at the head of Móafellsdalur, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 

147). Mjóafellsjökull is an alternative name. Cited in Escritt (n.d., p. 35) and ÁFÍ 

1991 (p. 32). Shown on the following maps: AB62 (1978), C762 (5824IV), C761 

(1916IV), and as Glacier 04/S/01 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). 

Named for the M(j)óafell farmstead.

Figure 145. Oblique aerial photograph of the Miklukvíslarjökull ice-flow basin on 23 August 1998. View looking to the north-northwest toward the 

southern margin of the HOFSJÖKULL ice cap. Part of the Blautukvíslarjökull outlet glacier is on the left; part of the Nauthagajökull outlet glacier is 

on the right. The Tanni and Hásteinar nunataks are visible in the background. Photograph no. 20895v by O.S., NEA.
156 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Unadalsjökull Móafellsjökull Hnjótajökull Skallárdalsjökull Heljardalsjökull

Figure 147. Oblique aerial photograph of the Móafellsjökull mountain glacier on 6 September 2000. View looking to the south. The 

Skallárdalsjökull (left) and Unadalsjökull (right) mountain glaciers are in the middle background. The Hnjótajökull cirque glacier is in the left 

background; the Heljardalsjökull mountain glacier is in the distant left background. Photograph no. 24011v by O.S., NEA.

Figure 146. Oblique aerial photograph of the Morsárjökull outlet glacier on 25 September 1991. View looking to the northeast toward the head of 

Morsárdalur on the southern margin of the VATNAJÖKULL ice cap. Photograph no. 910925-2-15 by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 157

Móskjónujökull Austfjarðajöklar 64°56′N., 14°17′W.

Cirque glacier at the head of Móskjónudalur, for which it is named, Hróarsdalur, 

Norðurdalur, Breiðdalur, eastern Iceland (figs. 9C, 148, 176). Cited in Guttormsson 

(2005, p. 249; outlined in red on satellite image on p. 248).

Múlajökull Hofsjökull Group 64°39′N., 18°40′W.

Piedmont surge-type outlet glacier on the southern margin of HOFSJÖKULL

(figs. 4A, 86, 149). Cited in Eyþórsson (1934, p. 97). It first appeared on JÍK5 

(1965); it is shown on AK5 (1988), C761 (1914III), and on location map 

(Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 10). Named for Arnarfellsmúlar concentric terminal moraines.

Myrkárjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°37.5′N., 18°49.9′W.

Cirque glacier at the head of Myrkárdalur, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 17, 103). 

Cited by Vigfússon [1843 (1954, p. 124)], Thoroddsen (1892, p. 131), Bruun 

(1924, p. 37), Ahlmann (1937, p. 222), ÁFÍ 1938 (p. 62), Steindórsson (1949, 

p. 32), and Häberle (1991, p. 185). Escritt (n.d., p. 36) shows the glacier in two 

parts: Myrkárjökull nyrðri and Myrkárjökull syðri. Shown on the following maps: 

AÍ4 (1966), AK9 (1996), AB63 (1975), C761 (1916III), C762 (5823IV), ÁFÍ 1990 

(p. 164), and Häberle (1991, p. 105; glacier no. 12). Shown as Glacier 05/F/10 

(nyrðri) and Glacier 05/F/11 (syðri) on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt 

(n.d.). Named for the Myrká river.

Mýrajöklar Vatnajökull Group 64°26′N., 15°46′W.

Collective name for outlet glaciers on the southeastern margin of VATNAJÖKULL

whose termini end in the Mýrar district (between Kolgríma and Hornafjarðarfljót), 

for which it is named, with particular reference to Heinabergsjökull (includes 

what is now called Skálafellsjökull) and Fláajökull. Cited by Thoroddsen 

[1906, p. 198 (defines Mýrajöklar as the outlet glaciers between Hestgerðismúli 

and Hornafjörður); 1911, p. 501 (defines Mýrajöklar as Fláajökull and 

Heinabergsjökull, including Skálafellsjökull)].

Figure 148. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Móskjónujökull cirque glacier on 

16 September 2003. View looking to the 

east. The village of Búðir in Fáskrúðsfjöður is 

visible in the right background. Photograph 

no. 030916-2-5 by O.S., NEA.
158 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Mýrajökull Vatnajökull Group 64°20′N., 15°34′W.

Probable historic alternative name for either all or part of Fláajökull. Cited by 

Pálsson [1795, §12 (2004, p. 47, 48; see also Endnote no. 117, p. 159)]. Named for 

the Mýrar district.

Mýrajökull Vatnajökull Group 64°26′N., 15°46′W.

Historic name for the main glacier adjacent to the Mýrar district, for which it is named. 

Cited by Einarsson [1855, (1997, p. 125)].

MÝRDALSJÖKULL Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°48′N., 19°26′W.

63°31′N., 18°47′W.

Ice cap in southern Iceland with numerous outlet glaciers (figs. 3A, 124, 150); 

it sits astride a major, active volcano, Katla. Alternative names used historically 

for MÝRDALSJÖKULL are AUSTURJÖKULL, EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL, 

HÖFÐABREKKUJÖKULL, HÖFÐAJÖKULL, HÖFÐÁRJÖKULL, 

KÖTLUGJÁRJÖKULL, KÖTLUJÖKULL, and SÓLHEIMAJÖKULL. 

Some spelling variations are MIÐDALSJÖKULL, MIRDALSJÖKULL, and 

MYDALS IOKULL, MÝDALSJÖKULL. MÝRDALSJÖKULL has several 

Figure 149. Oblique aerial photograph of the Múlajökull surge-type outlet glacier on 28 December 1981. View looking to the northwest toward the 

southeastern margin and, in the distance, the summit of the HOFSJÖKULL ice cap. The Nauthagajökull outlet glacier is on the left with the Hjartafell 

mountain between the two outlet glaciers. Photograph no. 5201h by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 159

named outlet glaciers. Clockwise from Kötlujökull (Höfðabrekkujökull), 

they are Huldujökull (Hvítijökull) (tributary glacier), Thoroddsengletscher, 

Hafursárjökull, Klifurárjökull (Klifandajökull or Klifandijökull), Sólheimajökull, 

Jökulsárgilsjökull, Hrunárjöklar, Tungnakvíslarjökull, Krossárjökull, 

Entujökull, Sléttjökull (Mælifellsjökull), Öldufellsjökull, and Sandfellsjökull, 

including two surge-type glaciers. Hrunakvíslarjökull, a former distributary glacier 

from Tungnakvíslarjökull, has receded into its source and no longer exists. 

Internal ice domes are “HÁBUNGA” (“HÁABUNGA”), “GOÐABUNGA,” 

and “MERKURJÖKULL.” Modern ice-margin names include Botnjökull, 

Goðalandsjökull, and Hrunajökull.

Eight glaciers, including Mydals Iokul, appear on Guðbrandur Þorláksson’s 

Islandia, a part of Abraham Ortelius’ Theatrum orbis terrarum (Sigurðsson, 1978, ff. 

p. 16). Þórður Þorláksson’s 1668 Islandia map (color) shows MIDDALSJOKULL 

(Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 80). Peder Resen 1680 map of Iceland shows Vestre 

Midals Jökul and Øster Midals Jökul (VATNAJÖKULL) (Sigurðsson, 1978, ff. 

80). Knopf’s 1731 Carte over Rangærvalle og Westmands Øers Sÿsseller shows 

Midals Ioküll. On Knopf’s 1733 Carte over Westere og Østere Skaftefellssÿssell, he 

only shows Køtligiaa Iøkul (Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 144). Magnússon [1702–1714 

(1955, p. 21, p. 30–31, 33) cites MÝRDALSJÖKULL. Cited by Oddsson [1638 

(1942, p. 101)], Ólafsson (1749, p. 37, cites MIRDALSJÖKULL), Ólafsson and 

Pálsson [1772 (1975, v. 2, p. 93), Jakobsson (1757, p. 5, 37, 41, 60), and von Troil 

[1777 (1961, p. 116, 117)]. NCOI shows Eyafialla Iökull, Myrdals Iökull, Solheima 

Iökull, and Kötlugiaa Iökull. Pálsson’s 1795 map of EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL 

[1795, Tab. II (2004, p. 77)] shows MÝRDALSJÖKULL as the eastern part of 

0 5 10 KILOMETERS

63°45'N

63°30'N

19°30'W 19°W

Figure 150. Landsat 1 MSS falsecolor composite image mosaic of 

the MÝRDALSJÖKULL ice cap on 

22 September 1973. Landsat images 1426-

12070 and 1426-12073 from USGS, EROS 

Data Center, Sioux Falls, SD 57198.
160 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL and not a separate ice cap; he also shows it as one of five 

(six) place-names of glaciers within EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL: Hájökull, Lágjökull, 

Botnjökull or Emstrujökull, Sólheimajökull, and Mýrdalsjökull. Pálsson uses 

Mýdalsjökull in his early manuscripts and later Mýrdalsjökull [1795, §16 (2004, 

p. 78; see also Endnote no. 218, p. 167); on perspective drawings, Tab. VII (2004, 

p. 48) and Tab. XII (2004, p. 79); and on the 1795 map (Tab. II) (2004, p. 77)]. 

Björn Gunnlaugsson (1848; UÍ1) shows EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL to the west; on 

the east, Goðalandsjökull (with Merkrjökull to the north) is shown as the northern 

part of what is now called MÝRDALSJÖKULL, with MÝRDALSJÖKULL shown 

as the southern part. Sólheimajökull is not shown on UÍ1. Paijkull (GMIP) copies 

UÍ1 but deletes Merkrjökull. Thoroddsen (GMIT) copies UÍ1 directly.

All post-1901 maps of Iceland show MÝRDALSJÖKULL as a separate ice cap, 

separated from EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL by snow patches labeled Lágjökull* 

and Brattafönn*, which lie in the saddle, Fimmvörðuháls, between the two ice 

caps: JÍK6, JÍB, JÍN6, FB59 N.A. (1941), FB69 N.V. (1957), AB58 (1964), AB59 

(1973), AB68 (1969), AB69 (1969), AÍ6 (1977), AK6 (1996), C762 ( 5817I, 5718II, 

5817IV, 5818III), C761 (1812I, II; 1912III, IV), sérkort Landmannalaugar-Þórsmörk 

(1985), Jarðfræðikort af Eyjafjöllum by Jón Jónsson (1989), and on location map 

(Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 8). Named for the Mýrdalur district.

Mælifellsjökull Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°46′N., 19°01′W.

Alternative name for Sléttjökull on the northern margin of MÝRDALSJÖKULL. 

Named for Mælifell peak. Cited by Þórarinsson and Rist (1955, p. 44, 45) and 

Einarsson (1960, p. 25, 79).

Mænisfönn Hofsjökull Group 64°39′N., 19°19′W.

Mountain glacier in Kerlingarfjöll north of the Mænir Mountain, for which it is 

named (figs. 4B, 45). Named by Jón Eyþórsson and Steinþór Sigurðsson (ÁFÍ 1942, 

p. 20, p. 34; on photograph and perspective drawing, ff p. 16). 

Mænisjökull Hofsjökull Group 64°38′N., 19°18′W.

Mountain glacier in Kerlingarfjöll north-northeast of the Mænir Mountain, for which 

it is named (figs. 4B, 45, 138). Named by Jón Eyþórsson and Steinþór Sigurðsson 

(ÁFÍ 1942, p. 20, 34; on photograph and perspective drawing, ff p. 16). Cited in ÁFÍ 

2001 (p. 221; map on p. 220).

N

Nautárdalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°29.3′N., 18°22.5′W.

Cirque glacier at the head of Nautárdalur, Skjóldalur, Eyjafjörður (figs. 8A, C, 175). 

Cited in Escritt (n.d., p. 37) and ÁFÍ 1990 (p. 109). Named for the Nautárdalur 

valley. Shown as Glacier 05/G/11 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.).

Nautárjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°46.6′N., 18°31.5′W.

Mountain glacier at the head of Nautárdalur in Þorvaldsdalur, northern Iceland 

(figs. 8A, C, 151). Cited in Escritt (n.d., p. 36) and ÁFÍ 1991 (p. 33). Shown as 

Glacier 05/E/07 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Named for the 

Nautá river.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 161

Nauthagajökull Hofsjökull Group 64°39′N., 18°46′W.

Distributary outlet glacier on the southern margin of HOFSJÖKULL, a distributary 

of Múlajökull (figs. 4A, 86, 149, 152). Ólafsfellsjökull is an alternative name. 

Anecdotal evidence suggests that Nauthagajökull is a surge-type glacier (Björnsson 

and others, 2003, p. 85). Cited in Ahlmann (1937, p. 218) and Eyþórsson (1942, 

p. 127). It first appeared on AK5 (1988) and is shown on C761 (1914III). Named for 

Nauthagi, a grazing area southwest of the outlet glacier. 

Norðfjarðarjökull* Austurland 65°09′N.,14°06′W.

Alternative name of the snow patch Fönn* at the head of Norðfjörður in eastern 

Iceland (table 11). Cited by Gunnarsson [1876 (1950, p. 207)]. Named for 

Norðfjörður district.

Nautárjökull

T r ö l l a d a l s j ö k u l l

Figure 152. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Nauthagajökull outlet glacier 

on 22 July 1999. View looking to the 

northwest toward the southeastern margin 

of the HOFSJÖKULL ice cap. Photograph 

no. 22629v by O.S., NEA.

Figure 151. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Nautárjökull mountain glacier on 

6 September 2000. View looking to the 

west. Nautárjökull is in the background. 

The Trölladalsjökull mountain glacier is in 

the foreground. Photograph no. 24051v by 

O.S., NEA.
162 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Norðlingalægðarjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°09′N., 16°22′W.

One of three named ice streams described by Sigbjarnarson (1971, fig. 1, p. 51) 

comprising the four ice streams of the Breiðamerkurjökull outlet glacier of 

VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 26A, B, 188). It has a history of surging. Named for the 

Norðlingalægð low pass, allegedly a route used by Northerners (Norðlingar) on their 

way to the southeast coast.

Norðurfellsjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°26′N., 15°28′W.

Alternative name for Hoffellsjökull based on a misunderstanding. Cited in Gadde 

[1857 (1976, p. 76)]. The name has an unknown origin.

Norðurjökull Langjökull Group 64°39′N.,19°53′W.

Outlet glacier on eastern margin of LANGJÖKULL that calves into Hvítárvatn 

(figs. 5, 139, 153). Cited in ÁFÍ 1971 (p. 138, 153) and ÁFÍ 1980 (p. 155). 

First shown on maps AK5 (1948, 1967, 1968) and C761 (1814III). On AK5 

(1946), it is shown as Nyrðri-Skriðjökull and on AK5 (1988) and AB55 (1966) 

as Nyrðriskriðjökull. Named for “northern” glacier of two glaciers that embrace 

Skriðufell; the other glacier is Suðurjökull.

Figure 153. Oblique aerial photograph of the Norðurjökull outlet glacier on 23 August 1998. View looking to the northwest at Skriðufell; 

the Suðurjökull outlet glacier is on the left. Norðurjökull is on the right, its terminus calving into Hvítárvatn lake. EIRÍKSJÖKULL is in the 

center background. Photograph no. 20886h by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 163

Norðurtungnajökull Vatnajökull Group 64°34′N., 15°17′W.

Outlet glacier on the eastern margin of VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 26A, 154, 188). 

Shown on the following maps: AÍ8 (1967), AK8 (1997), AB106 (1971), and C762 

(6120I). Named for the Norður-Lambatungur common. 

Norðvesturjökull Langjökull Group 64°45′N., 19°45′W.

Outlet glacier on the northwestern margin of HRÚTFELLSJÖKULL (figs. 5, 97). 

Alternative description of NV-jökull (J1, p. 16). Named for northwesternmost of 

the outlet glaciers on the northern margin of HRÚTFELLSJÖKULL. Cited by 

Eyþórsson (1963a, p. 32–33). Shown on location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 10). 

Cited in ÁFÍ 2001 (p. 191) as a provisional name.

Axarfellsjökull

Suðurfjallsjökull

A u s t u r t u n g n a j ö k u l l

Norðurtungnajökull

Vesturdalsjökull

Figure 154. Oblique aerial photograph of the Norðurtungnajökull outlet glacier on 28 September 2002. View looking to the north toward the 

eastern margin of the VATNAJÖKULL ice cap. From left to right are the following outlet glaciers: part of Austurtungnajökull, Norðurtungnajökull, 

part of Axarfellsjökull, Suðurfjallsjökull, and Vesturdalsjökull. Photograph no. 26684v by O.S., NEA. 

Nyrðri-Skeiðarárjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°17′N., 17°31′W.

Historic alternative name for Síðujökull. Cited by Pálsson [1795, §12 (2004, p. 47)], 

who cited Ólafsson [1772, §766 (1975, v. 2, p. 86)]. An alternative spelling is 

Skeiðarárjökull nyrðri (Ólafsson [1772 §778 (1975, v. 2, p. 101–102)].

Nyrðriskriðjökull Langjökull Group 64°39′N.,19°53′W.

Alternative name for Norðurjökull. Nyrðri-Skriðjökull is an alternative spelling. 

Cited in ÁFÍ 1971, photograph on p. 152. Shown on the following maps: AK5 

(1988) and AB55 (1966). Named for “more northerly” glacier of two; the other 

glacier is Fremri-Skriðjökull (Suðurjökull).

Nyrðri-Skriðjökull Langjökull Group 64°39′N., 19°53′W.

An alternative name for Norðurjökull. Nyrðriskriðjökull is an alternative spelling. 

Cited in ÁFÍ 1971 (photograph on p. 152). Shown on map AK5 (1946).
164 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

O

Ok Langjökull Group 64°37′N., 20°53′W.

Alternative name for the mountain glacier located on Ok, an interglacial lava 

shield volcano in west-central Iceland. The place-name is noted in Harðar saga 

og Hólmverja (Jónsson, 1953), which may have been written as early as the 13th 

century (possibly 15th century). Ok may not have had a glacier at that time because 

of the preceding warmer period. Ólafsson [1772, §137 and §143 (1975, v. 1, p. 54, 

56)] refers to Okið without mentioning a glacier. Pálsson, 1795 map (2004, Tab. III, 

p. 87, 90, 92)], shows Okjökull. UÍ1, GMIP, and GMIT all show Ok. Thoroddsen 

(1892, p. 122, and 1906, p. 180, 208) refers to a glacier on Ok. Rist (1985) and 

Thorarinsson (1943, p. 17) both refer to a glacier on Ok. Shown on the following 

maps: JÍK3 (1960), JÍN3 (1980), FB36 N.A. (1957), AB36 (1981)/AB46 (1982), AÍ2 

(1977)/AÍ5 (1978), AK2 (1987)/AK5 (1988), C761 (1714III), and C762 (5620IV). 

Named for its shape like a yoke.

Okjökull Langjökull Group 64°37′N., 20°53′W.

Name of the cupola-type mountain glacier located north of a snow-filled summit 

crater on Ok, an interglacial lava shield volcano in west-central Iceland (figs. 5, 

155). Ok is an alternative name. Cited by Pálsson (1945, p. 111, 513) and on his map 

of LANGIJÖKULL [Pálsson, 1795, p. 90 and Tab. III (2004, p. 87)]. Named for its 

shape like a yoke.

Figure 155. Oblique aerial photograph of the Okjökull mountain glacier on 15 September 2003. View looking to the southwest. Photograph 

no. 27564v by O.S., NEA. 
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 165

Ófeigsfjarðarjökull* Vesturland 66°02′N., 21°57′W.

Area of snow patches to the southeast of DRANGAJÖKULL in the 

Ófeigsfjarðarheiði area (table 11). Cited by Magnússon [(1702–1714 (1955, p. 77)]. 

Named for the Ófeigsfjörður farmstead.

Ólafarhnjúksjöklar Norðurlandsjöklar 65°33.6′N., 18°48.9′W.

Remnants of cirque glaciers on the north face of Ólafarhnjúkar mountain peak, 

for which it is named. Hörgárdalur, Tröllaskagi (figs. 8A, C, 52). Cited by Häberle 

(1991, p. 185) as Ólafarhnjúksjöklar.

Ólafsfellsjökull Hofsjökull Group 64°39′N., 18°46′W.

Alternative name for Nauthagajökull. Cited in ÁFÍ 1988 (p. 92; mislocated on map, 

p. 88), by Guðmundsson (1995, p. 34), and in ÁFÍ 2001 (p. 190). Named for the 

Ólafsfell mountain.

R

Rauðuskriðudalsjökull* Norðurland 65°27′N., 18°36′W.

Snow patch at the head of Rauðuskriðudalur valley, for which it is named, 

Öxnadalur, Tröllaskagi (table 11). Cited by Häberle (1991, p. 186).

REGNBOGAJÖKULL Langjökull Group 64°46′N., 19°46′W.

64°43′N., 19°42′W.

Alternative name for HRÚTFELLSJÖKULL. Name cited by Hannesson 

(1928, p. 125, footnote) and Jón Eyþórsson in Jöklaritið in his Endnote no. 515 

(Eyþórsson and others, 1945, p. 766). Named for the rainbow or a distortion of 

REGNBÚÐAJÖKULL.

REGNBÚÐAJÖKLAR Langjökull Group 64°46′N., 19°46′W.

63°43′N., 19°42′W.

Alternative name for HRÚTFELLSJÖKULL. Name used on map AK5 (1948). 

Reason for name is unknown but may be from confusion with the Hrefnubúðir 

Mountain.

REGNBÚÐAJÖKULL Langjökull Group 64°46′N., 19°46′W.

64°43′N., 19°42′W.

Alternative name for HRÚTFELLSJÖKULL. Name used on the following maps: 

AÍ5 (1968), AK5 (1988), AB55 (1966), and C761 (1814III and 1814IV). Name may 

originate from confusion with the Hrefnubúðir Mountain.

Regnbúðarjökull Langjökull Group

A section on the southeastern margin of LANGJÖKULL. Name cited by Bjarnason 

[1873 (1950, p. 101)] as indicated by Thoroddsen (1914a, v. II, in footnote on 

p. 185). Name may originate from confusion with the Hrefnubúðir Mountain.

Reykjadalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°54.7′N., 18°46′W.

Mountain glacier at the head of Reykjadalur valley, for which it is named, in 

Ólafsfjörður, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 156). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 35). 

Shown as Glacier 05/C/1 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.).
166 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Reykjarfjarðarjökull Vestfjarðajöklar 66°12′N., 22°09′W.

Surge-type outlet glacier on the northeastern margin of DRANGAJÖKULL that 

flows toward Reykjarfjörður (figs. 7A, 37A, 142, 157). Cited by Eyþórsson (1951, 

p. 16) and Rist (1967b, p. 321). Shown on location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 5). 

Named for the Reykjarfjörður farmstead.

“Réttarfellsjökull” Suðurland 63°58′N., 16°50′W.

Jökullhlaup deposits from jökulhlaup from ÖRÆFAJÖKULL, based on conversation with Jóhann Þorsteinsson of Svínafell (oral commun., 2006; based on handwritten record by his father, Þorsteinn Jóhannsson). See figure 10B and table 10. 

Supposedly named for an unknown Réttarfell mountain.

Rjúpnabrekkujökull Vatnajökull Group 64°43′N., 17°33′W.

Outlet glacier on the northwestern margin of VATNAJÖKULL, north of 

“BÁRÐARBUNGA” (figs. 2A, 131A, 158, 188 ). Cited in ÁFÍ 1963 (p. 47, 49, 50). 

Shown on C761 (2014III), AK5 (1996), and AÍ (1967). Named for the Rjúpnabrekka 

mountain slope.

Reykjadalsjökull

Klaufabrekknajökull eystri

Figure 157. Ground photograph of the 

Reykjarfjarðarjökull surge-type outlet 

glacier on 19 April 2005 at the end of a 

surge event. View looking to the north 

toward the northeastern margin of the 

DRANGAJÖKULL ice cap from the summit 

of Hrolleifsborg (851 m). In the background is 

Hálsabunga (388 m); in the right foreground 

is Reykjafjaraðarás. Photograph by 

R.S.W., USGS. 

Figure 156. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Reykjadalsjökull mountain glacier 

on 6 September 2000. View looking to 

the south. Reykjadalsjökull is on the left. 

Klaufabrekknajökull eystri is in the right center. 

Photograph no. 24025v by O.S., NEA. 
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 167

Rótarfjallsjökull Vatnajökull Group 63°58′N., 16°42′W.

Alternative name for the combined Kotárjökull and Rótarfjallsjökull that are 

separated by Rótarfjall, for which it is named. Cited in ÁFÍ 1937 (p. 21, 82) and by 

Thorarinsson (1958, p. 33). 

Rótarfjallsjökull Vatnajökull Group 63°57′N., 16°43′W.

Outlet glacier on the southwest side of ÖRÆFAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 26A, 58, 123, 

188). Cited in ÁFÍ 1993 (p. 90). Named for the Rótarfjall mountain.

Rótarjökull Hofsjökull Group 64°42′N., 18°39′W.

Outlet glacier in the southern part of HOFSJÖKULL between Arnarfell hið mikla 

and Arnarfell hið litla (figs. 4A, 86, 159). First appeared on AK5 (1988) and shown 

on C761 (1914III). Named by Hallgrímur Jónasson (ÁFÍ 1967, p. 173, 174) for 

‘fjallsrót’ (Icelandic for foothills).

Figure 159. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Rótarjökull outlet glacier on 

11 September 1992. View looking to the 

northwest toward the southeastern margin 

of the HOFSJÖKULL ice cap. Photograph 

no. 14590v by O.S., NEA. 

Figure 158. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Rjúpnabrekkujökull outlet glacier 

on 7 November 1996. View looking to the 

south toward the northwestern margin of the 

VATNAJÖKULL ice cap. In the background 

is the “BÁRÐARBUNGA” internal ice dome, 

which overlies an active volcanic caldera. 

Photograph no. 19221v by O.S., NEA.
168 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

S

Sandárdalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°36′N., 18°46.9′W.

Remnants of a mountain glacier in Sandárdalur valley, for which it is named, 

Hörgárdalur, Tröllaskagi (figs. 8C, 103). Cited by Häberle (1991, p. 186).

Sandfellsjökull Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°40′N., 18°50′W.

Outlet glacier on the eastern margin of MÝRDALSJÖKULL (figs. 3A, 150, 160). 

Cited in ÁFÍ 1960 (p. 44, 81), Shown on the following maps: AÍ6 (1969, first 

appears; was not on 1959 edition), AK6 (1996), JÍB (1998), AB68 (1969), and C761 

(1912III). Named for the Sandfell mountain.

SANDFELLSJÖKULL Vatnajökull Group 63°58′N., 16°41′W.

Historic name applied to the part of ÖRÆFAJÖKULL that is adjacent to Sandfell 

farmstead for which it is named. Ólafsson (1772 [1975, v. 2, p. 87 (§766) and 

p. 104 (§782)]) divided ÖRÆFAJÖKULL into two parts: SANDFELLSJÖKULL 

and KNAPPAFELLSJÖKULL. Cited by Thorarensen [1839 (1997, p. 148)] and 

Gadde [1857 (1976, p. 81)]. Shown as separate place-name, Sandfells Iökull, west 

of Knappafells Iökull and southwest of Øræfa Iökull on NCOI (Sigurðsson, 1978, 

ff p. 160).

SANDJÖKULL (Sand Iokul) Vatnajökull Group 64°48′N., 18°01′W.

64°42′N., 17°49′W.

Possibly an historic name for TUNGNAFELLSJÖKULL. Cited in ÁFÍ 2001 

(p. 187). Shown on Guðbrandur Þorláksson’s Islandia map (incorporated into 1590 

Theatrum orbis terrarum map from Abraham Ortelius) (Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 16). 

Alternative spelling, Sand-hökull, on Islandia map, incorporated into Mercator’s 

1595 Atlas (Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 24), and on some maps through the 17th and 

18th centuries [for example, 1680 map by Peder Resen (Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 80)]. 

Probably named for the Sprengisandur desert.

Figure 160. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Sandfellsjökull outlet glacier on 

11 September 1992. View looking to the 

northwest toward the eastern margin of the 

MÝRDALSJÖKULL ice cap; Sandfell mountain 

is in the background. Photograph no. 14590v 

by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 169

Sátujökull Hofsjökull Group 64°58′N., 18°56′W.

Outlet glacier on the northwestern margin of HOFSJÖKULL (figs. 4A, 86, 

161). First appeared on AK5 (1988) and C761 (1814I). Shown on location map 

(Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 10) as Sátujökull. Named for the Sáta Mountain. Part of 

Sátujökull has been referred to as Lambahraunsjökull and Lambahraunsjöklar. 

Cited by Hannesson [1928 (1958, p. 54, 55, 64, 81)], J 36 (p. 88), Jóhannesson 

and others (1995), and in ÁFÍ 2001 (p. 190). Björnsson (1988, p. 64) divided 

Sátujökull into Western-Sátujökull (Map 19, Glacier 14) and EasternSátujökull (Map 19, Glacier 15). ÁFÍ 2001 (p. 190) uses Vestari-Sátujökull

(64o57′N.,18o56′W.) and Eystri-Sátujökull (64o58′N.,18o56′W.) in reference to the 

two parts.

Seldalsjökull Austfjarðajöklar 64°58′N., 14°20′W.

Cirque glacier in the inner part of Reyðarfjörður, eastern Iceland (fig. 9C). Cited by 

Rist (1985). Named for the Seldalur valley.

Seldalsjökull* Norðurland 65°23′N., 18°37′W.

Snow patch at the head of the Seldalur valley, for which it is named, Öxnadalur, 

Tröllaskagi (table 11). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 36) and Häberle (1991, p. 186). 

Shown on map (Häberle, 1991, p. 105) as glacier no. 15 and as Glacier 05/F/16 on 

maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.).

Seljadalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°50′N., 18°59′W.

Mountain glacier at the head of the Seljadalur valley, for which it is named, 

Deildardalur, northern Iceland. It is an alternative name for Deildardalsjökull. Cited 

by Rist (1985).

Seljavallajökull Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°36′N., 19°37′W.

Outlet glacier on the southern margin of EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL (figs. 3B, 42, 109). 

Tungugilsjökull is an historic alternative name. Cited by Jón Eyþórsson (1934, p. 97). 

Shown on location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 8). Named for the Seljavellir farmstead.

Figure 161. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Sátujökull outlet glacier on 

23 August 1998. View looking to the 

southeast at the northwestern margin of 

the HOFSJÖKULL ice cap. Photograph 

no. 20921 by O.S., NEA.
170 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Síðujökull Vatnajökull Group 64°07′N., 17°53′W.

Surge-type outlet glacier on the southwestern margin of VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 

131A, 162, 188). Historically, the name was applied to the entire southwestern 

quadrant of VATNAJÖKULL: Oddsson [1637 (1988, p. 480)], Oddsson [1638 

(1942, p. 10, 63)], Magnússon [1702–1714 (1955, p. 21, 30–31)], Ólafsson [1772 

§766 and §778 (1975, v. 2, p. 86, 101–102], von Troil [1777 (1961, p. 116)], and 

Pálsson [1795 §12 (2004, p. 47)]. Nyrðri-Skeiðarárjökull (Skeiðarárjökull nyrðri) is 

an alternative historic name. NCOI shows Sidu Iökull on the southwestern part of 

Klofa Iökull (Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 160). Pálsson’s [(1795) Tab. I (2004, p. 40)] 

1794 map of KLOFAJÖKULL or VATNAJÖKULL shows the western part of 

KLOFAJÖKULL divided into Skaptárjökull on the north and Síðujökull on the south 

(Sigurðsson, 1978, p. 183). UÍ2 shows the western part of VATNAJÖKULL or 

KLOFAJÖKULL as Skaptárjökull or Síðujökull (Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 256). Cited 

by Thoroddsen [1906, p. 38 (Síðujökull) and p. 188 (Skaptárjökull or Síðujökull) 

and 1913, p. 185; also in the Register (Síðujökull) on p. 330 as synonymous with 

Skaftárjökull)]. Cited by Sigurjón Rist (1967b, p. 322). Cited in ÁFÍ 1937 as 

Skaftárjökull or Síðujökull, p. 78). Cited on the following maps: JÍK6, JÍN6, AÍ6 

(1977), AK6 (1996), AB 77 (1974), C761 (1913II, 2013III) and on location map 

(Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 9). On C762 Síðujökull is shown as the southwestern fringe of 

Skaftárjökull. Named for the Síða district.

Figure 162. Oblique aerial photograph of Síðujökull, a surge-type outlet glacier, on 19 September 2002. View looking to the east across the southwestern margin of the VATNAJÖKULL ice cap toward the ÖRÆFAJÖKULL internal ice cap in the background. Tephra layers from multiple explosive 

volcanic events are “outcropping” in the form of concentric and sinuous black lines on the glacier’s surface. Photograph no. 26520v by O.S., NEA. 
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 171

Skaftafellsjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°02′N., 16°55′W.

Outlet glacier on the southern margin of VATNAJÖKULL and northwestern flank of 

ÖRÆFAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 26A, 163, 166A, B, 188). Skaptafellsjökull is an historic 

spelling. Cited by Thorarensen [1839 (1997, p. 149)], Gadde [1857 (1976, p. 82)], 

and Thoroddsen (1911, p. 4). Shown on the following maps: JÍB (1998), JÍN9, AB 87 

(1972), AÍ9 (1952), AK9 (1997), C762 (6019III), sérkort Skaftafell 87/88 (1991), and 

on location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 9). Named for the the Skaftafell farmstead.

Skaftárjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°15′N., 18°04′W.

Outlet glacier on the southwestern margin of VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 131A, 164, 

188). Skaptárjökull is an historic spelling. Cited by Ólafsson [1772 §766 (1975, v. 2, 

p. 87)], Pálsson [1795 §12 (2004, Tab. I, p. 40, 47; see also Endnote no. 120, p. 159)], 

Sigurðsson [1859 (1997, p. 160)], Kålund [1877 (1984, v. IV, p. 83; as Skaftárjökull

or Síðujökull)], Thoroddsen (as Skaftárjökull or Síðujökull; 1911, p. 39) and 

Thoroddsen as Skaftárjökull (Síðujökull); 1913, p. 198). Shown on the following 

maps: JÍK6, JÍN6, JÍB (1998), AÍ6 (1977), AK6 (1996), AB77 (1974), C762 (5819II, 

5919III), and C761 (1913III). On AB 67 (1977), part of Tungnárjökull is mislabeled 

as Skaftárjökull. On C762 (5819II, 5919III) and on C762 (5820II, 5819I) Sidhujökull 

is shown as the fringe of Skaftárjökull. Named for the Skaftá river. 

Figure 163. Oblique aerial photograph of the Skaftafellsjökull (left) and Svínafellsjökull (right) outlet glaciers on 28 September 2002. View 

looking to the northeast toward the coalescence of the VATNAJÖKULL ice cap and the ÖRÆFAJÖKULL internal ice cap on the southern margin of 

VATNAJÖKULL. Photograph no. 26629v by O.S., NEA.
172 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Skallárdalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°51.1′N., 18°58.2′W.

Mountain glacier, a part of Unadalsjökull, at the head of Skallárdalur, for which it is 

named, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 82, 147). Skallárjökull and Hájökull are alternative names. Cited in Steindórsson (1949, p. 32), ÁFÍ 1973 (p. 104), Escritt (n.d., 

p. 35), and Stötter (1991, p. 57). Shown on map in Stötter (1991, fig. 21) as glacier 

no. 45, and as Glacier 05/D/03 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). 

Skallárjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°51′N., 18°58′W.

Alternative name of Skallárdalsjökull. Cited by Thorarinsson (1943, p. 17) and by 

Rist (1985). Named for the Skallá river.

Skaptafellsjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°02′N., 16°55′W.

Historic spelling for Skaftafellsjökull. Cited by Thoroddsen (1892, p. 129). Shown 

on the following maps: FB87 S.V. and 87 N.V. (1905).

Skaptárjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°15′N., 18°04′W.

Historic spelling for Skaftárjökull. The name was formerly applied to the entire 

southwestern quadrant of KLOFAJÖKULL or VATNAJÖKULL. Cited by 

Thoroddsen as Skaptárjökull or Síðujökull (1892, p. 124). Shown on maps as 

Skaptaar Iökull on NCOI (Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 160), on Pálsson’s 1794 map of 

KLOFAJÖKULL or VATNAJÖKULL (1795, Tab. I (2004, p. 40)] as Skaptárjökull 

(Sigurðsson, 1978, p. 183), on UÍ2 (Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 256), and GMIP as 

Skaptárjökull or Síðujökull.

Figure 164. Oblique aerial photograph of Skaftárjökull surge-type outlet glacier on 11 October 1994. Tungnárjökull is on the left; Síðujökull is 

on the right. View looking to the northeast toward the southwestern margin of the VATNAJÖKULL ice cap. Photograph no. 16662v by O.S., NEA. 
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 173

Skarðsárdalsjöklar* Norðurland 65°41′N., 18°44′W.

Snow patches in Skarðsárdalur, for which it is named, Barkárdalur, Tröllaskagi 

(table 11). Cited by Häberle (1991, p. 185).

Skarðsárjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°40′N., 18°52′W.

Alternative name for Héðinsskarðajökull. Cited in Escritt (n.d., p. 35). Shown as 

Glacier 04/Q/05 in maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.)

Skarðsheiðarjökull Langjökull Group 64°29′N., 21°40′W.

Ice aprons on the sheltered north side of Skarðsheiði massif, for which it is named. 

Hornsárdalsjökull is an alternative name. Cited by Pálsson [1795, §6 (2004, p. 8)] 

and Jón Eyþórsson (1931, p. 6).

Skarphéðinsjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°39′N., 16°36′W.

Outlet glacier from the eastern part of Kverkfjöll on the northern margin of 

VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 29A, 165, 188). Shown on the following maps: AÍ8 

(1976), AK8 (1997), AB85 (1954), and C762 (6020IV). Named by a Cambridge 

University research party in 1932 for Skarphéðinn Gíslason, farmer and glacier 

observer.

Skálafellsjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°16′N., 15°43′W.

Outlet glacier on the southeastern margin of Vatnajökull (figs. 2A, 18, 26A, 77, 188). 

Skálafellsjökull was part of Heinabergsjökull, a single terminus, before retreat 

and thinning separated Heinabergsjökull into two termini around Hafrafell: a 

southern terminus (Skálafellsjökull) and a northern terminus (Heinabergsjökull). 

Heinabergsjökull vestari (Thoroddsen, 1914b, v. 3, p. 223) and Heinabergsjökull 

vestri (Guðmundsson, 1972, p. 132; ÁFÍ 1993, p. 146) are alternative names. 

Two maps (ÁFÍ 1993, p. 123, 148) show Heinabergsjökull on both sides of 

Hafrafell, with Skálafellsjökull as a primary distributary and Eyvindstungnajökull

as a minor distributary. Cited by Frisak (1812, 28 August). Thoroddsen (1892, 

p. 127) refers to Otto Torell in a footnote (“öfersigt af kgl. Vet. Akad. Förhandl. 

1857. S. 327”): “Mellem Heinabergs og Skálafellsjøklerne ligger Hafrafell.”) 

Figure 165. Ground photograph of 

the Skarphéðinsjökull outlet glacier on 

16 May 1988. View looking to the west toward 

the eastern side of the Kverkfjöll central volcano 

on the northern margin of the VATNAJÖKULL

ice cap. Photograph no. 9758 by O.S., NEA.
174 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Eyþórsson (J2, p. 49; J5, p. 40; and J6, p. 35) refers to Heinabergsjöklar as being 

composed of syðri jökull (Skálafellsjökull) and nyrðri jökull (Heinabergsjökull); 

in J4 (p. 46) he indicates syðri jökull (Skálafellsjökull) as a part of 

Heinabergsjökull. In J13 (p. 32), Eyþórsson shows Skálafellsjökull as S-glacier. 

Sigurjón Rist (J17, p. 323) refers to Skálafellsjökull W (Skálf.) and Skálafellsjökull 

E (Hafrafell). Cited in J45 (p. 6, 14; shown on map on p. 9 as Skálfellsjökull

(sic) and Skálfellsjökull vestur (sic) (in same location as Sultartungnajökull or 

Eyvindstungnajökull). Shown on the following maps: AÍ9 (1976; first appears 

on 1971 edition; not on 1946 edition), AK9 (1997), and AB96 (1972); not shown 

on AB96 (1945); Heinabergsjökull is shown as a single terminus. Named for the 

Skálafell farmstead.

Skeiðarárjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°01′N., 17°15′W.

Surge-type glacier on the southern margin of VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 131A, 

166A, B, 188). Cited by Magnússon [1625 (1907-1915, p. 205)], Oddsson [1638 

(1942, p. 101)], Vídalín [1754, II. §2 (1965, p. 24)], Magnússon [1702–1714 (1955, 

p. 21, 30)], Ólafsson [1772, §766, §778, §780, §782, §783, §785, and §803 (1975, 

v. 2, p. 103)], Pálsson [1795, §12 (2004, p. 47), Tab. V (2004, p. 70) and Tab. VI 

Morsárjökull Skaftafellsjökull Svínafellsjökull

ÖRÆFAJÖKULL A

Figure 166. A (above), Oblique aerial photograph of Skeiðarárjökull, a surge-type outlet glacier on 24 April 1997. View looking to the east toward 

the ÖRÆFJÖKULL internal ice cap on the southern margin of the VATNAJÖKULL ice cap. Three outlet glaciers are visible in the background, from 

left to right: part of Morsárjökull, Skaftafellsjökull, and Svínafellsjökull. Photograph no. 19715v by O.S., NEA. 

B (at right), Satellite image mosaic of Skeiðarárjökull on 9 August 1978. Landsat 3 Return Beam Vidicon (RBV) images 30157-11572-A and -C 

from USGS, EROS Data Center, Sioux Falls, SD 57198.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 175

(2004, p. 75)], and Thoroddsen (1892, p. 124). Cited in ÁFÍ 1935 (p. 70). Shown on 

the following maps: Pálsson’s 1794 map of KLOFAJÖKULL or VATNAJÖKULL

[1795, Tab. I (2004, p. 40)], T.H.H. Knopf’s 1733 map of Carte over Westere Og 

Østere Skaftefellssÿssell (Skeider Aa Iokůl) and 1734 map of Siø og Land Carte over 

Island (Skeidaraa Iøkull) (Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 144), NCOI (Skeidar=aar Iökull), 

UÍ2, GMIP, GMIT, JÍK6, JÍB, JÍN6/JÍN9, AÍ6 (1977)/AÍ9 (1976), AK6 1996/AK9 

(1997), AB77 (1974)/AB87 (1972), FB77 S.A./N.A./FB87 S.V./N.V., C762 (5918I, 

5919I, 5919II), C761 (2012I, 2013I, and 2013II), and on location map (Sigurðsson, 

1998, p. 9). Named for the Skeiðará river.

B

0 5 10 KILOMETERS

17°W

18°W

64°30'N
176 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Skessujökull Hofsjökull Group 64°38′N., 19°11′W.

Mountain glacier in Kerlingarfjöll which is contiguous with Loðmundarjökull

eystri (figs. 4B, 24). Named by Jón Eyþórsson and Steinþór Sigurðsson [ÁFÍ 1942, 

p. 20, 33; perspective drawings on p. 4, 5, and 17 (includes photo)]. Shown on 

unpublished, 1:50,000-scale sketch map of Kerlingarfjöll (sérkort). Named for an 

arbitrary giantess.

Skíðadalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°42′N., 18°47′W.

Mountain glaciers, usually connected by firn, at the head of Skíðadalur valley, for 

which it is named, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 167). Cited by Ahlmann (1937, 

p. 223), Steindórsson (1949, p. 32), ÁFÍ 1973 (p. 100), and Rist (1985), who 

describes Skíðadalsjökull as a glacier that is on the divide between Skagafjörður 

and Eyjafjörður and therefore flowing into two separate drainage basins; however, 

this description is not accurate. Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 36) and Stötter (1991, 

p. 56) as two glaciers, Skíðadalsjökull nyrðri and Skíðadalsjökull syðri. Shown on 

the following maps: AÍ4 (1966), AK4 (1996), AB62 (1978)/AB63 (1975), C762 

(5824III), and C761 (1916III).

Gljúfurárjökull

Skíðadalsjökull nyrðri Skíðadalsjökull syðri

Vörðufellsjökull

Tungnahryggsjökull

Barkárdalsjökull

Skíðadalsjökull

Figure 167. Oblique aerial photograph of the Skíðadalsjökull mountain glacier on 6 September 2000. View looking to the southwest at the 

head of Skíðadalur. In the middle background are the following glaciers: the two Vörðufellsjökull glaciers (cirque and mountain), Skíðadalsjökull 

[Escritt’s Skíðadalsjökull syðri (left), and Skíðadalsjökull nyrðri (right)], and the upper part of the Gljúfurárjökull valley glacier on the extreme left. 

The Barkárdalsjökull cirque glacier and the Tungnahryggsjökull compound mountain glacier are in the right background. Photograph no. 24036v 

by O.S., NEA. 
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 177

Skíðadalsjökull eystri Norðurlandsjöklar 65°45.6′N., 18°48.7′W.

Mountain glacier in Skíðadalur, Kolbeinsdalur, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 198). 

Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 35). Shown as Glacier 04/Q/ (unnumbered) on maps in 

Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Escritt incorrectly placed Glacier 04/Q/13 

on the location of Glacier 04/Q/14 (Heljardalsjökull) and did not place “13”on the 

black area east of Glacier 04/Q/12. Named for the Skíðadalur valley.

Skíðadalsjökull nyrðri Norðurlandsjöklar 65°42.2′N., 18°47.4′W.

Western part of Skíðadalsjökull mountain glaciers, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 167). 

Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 36) and Stötter (1991, p. 56; as Nyrðri Skíðadalsjökull). 

Shown as Glacier 05/D/25 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.), and on 

map in Stötter (1991, fig. 21) as glacier no. 17. Named for the Skíðadalur valley.

Skíðadalsjökull syðri Norðurlandsjöklar 65°42′N., 18°46′W.

Eastern part of Skíðadalsjökull mountain glaciers at the head of Skíðadalur, northern 

Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 167). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 36) and Stötter (1991, p. 56; as 

Syðri Skíðadalsjökull) as two glaciers. Shown as Glacier 05/D/26 on maps in Escritt 

(1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.), and on map in Stötter (1991, fig. 21) as glacier nos. 

15 and 16 as Nyrðri Skíðadalsjökull. Named for the Skíðadalur valley.

Skíðadalsjökull vestri Norðurlandsjöklar 65°45.5′N., 18°51′W.

Mountain glacier in Skíðadalur, Kolbeinsdalur, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 198). 

Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 35). Shown as Glacier 04/Q/12 on maps in Escritt (1975, 

p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Named for the Skíðadalur valley.

Skjaldbreiðarjökull Langjökull Group 64°35′N., 20°33′W.

Historic name for the southern margin of LANGJÖKULL, between GEITLANDSJÖKULL and Hagafellsjökull eystri.(figs. 5, 139). Cited by Gunnarsson [1877 

(1949, p. 226)] as the southwestern part of LANGJÖKULL and Thoroddsen (1892, 

p. 120), which he indicates is the same as Bláfellsjökull. Shown on UÍ1. Named for 

the Skjaldbreiður lava shield volcano.

Skjaldfönn* Vestfjarðajöklar 66°02.6′N., 22°20.4′W.

Ephemeral snow patch above the Skjaldfönn farmstead. It is named for its shieldlike 

form (table 11). Cited in Hjaltason (1949, p. 112).

Skrekkur Vatnajökull Group 64°13′N., 16°08′W.

Mountain glacier on the east side of Þverártindsegg, a snow-and ice-covered 

highland area adjacent to and semi-contiguous with the southeastern margin of 

VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 26A, 168, 188). Cited in Guðmundsson and Pétursson 

[1988, p. 18 (map), 20, 24 (fig. caption)] and ÁFÍ 1993 (p. 135–136; shown on map 

on p. 122). Named for fear.

Skriðjökull Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°40′N., 19°38′W.

Historic name for Gígjökull. Cited in ÁFÍ 1972 (p. 76–77). Named for its nature of 

gliding.
178 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Skriðudalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°43.5′N., 18°31.8′W.

Mountain glacier at the head of Skriðudalur in Hörgárdalur, northern Iceland 

(figs. 8A, C, 169). Cited in Escritt (n.d., p. 36), Häberle (1991, p. 186), and ÁFÍ 

1990 (p. 128). Shown on map (Häberle, 1991, p. 105) as glacier no. 7 and as 

Glacier 05/F/03 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Named for the 

Skriðudalur valley.

Skriðufönn* Miðháland 64°22′N., 20°41′W.

Snow patch in Skriðan, a table mountain, for which it is named, central Iceland 

(table 11). Cited by Rist (1985). 

Skúmhattarfönn* Austurland 65°03′N., 14°29′W.

Snow patch in Skúmhöttur mountain, for which it is named, eastern Iceland 

(table 11). Cited by Rist (1985). 

Skyndidalsjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°32′N., 15°17′W.

Outlet glacier on the eastern margin of VATNAJÖKULL. Alternative name for 

Austurtungnajökull. Cited by Sven Sigurðsson [1936 (2004, p. 343)] and Hoffell 

(1948, p. 39). Named for the Skyndidalur valley.

S k r e k k u r

Figure 168. Oblique aerial photograph of the Skrekkur mountain glacier on 28 September 2002. View looking to the west toward the southern 

margin of the VATNAJÖKULL ice cap. The Breiðamerkurjökull surge-type outlet glacier and the Esjufjöll nunataks are visible in the background. 

Photograph no. 26647v by O.S., NEA. 
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 179

Sléttjökull Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°46′N., 19°01′W.

Surge-type outlet glacier from the northern margin of MÝRDALSJÖKULL

(figs. 3A, 40, 150, 170). Mælifellsjökull is an alternative name. Cited in ÁFÍ 1960 

(p. 45) and ÁFÍ 1976 (p. 88, 92). The spelling variation Sléttijökull is cited in 

Árnason (1983, p. 291). Shown on the following maps: JÍB (1998), AK6 (1996), and 

C761 (1812I). Named for its flat appearance.

SNJÓFELLSJÖKULL Snæfellsjökull 64°50′N., 23°49′W.

64°48′N., 23°44′W.

Historic alternative name for SNÆFELLSJÖKULL. Cited by Pálsson [1795, §19 

(2004, p. 103)].

Figure 170. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Sléttjökull surge-type outlet glacier 

on 11 September 1992. View looking to 

the west toward the northern margin of 

the MÝRDALSJÖKULL ice cap. The 

Öldufell mountain is in the foreground. 

The EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL ice cap is in 

the left background. The Tindfjallajökull

mountain glacier is in the center background. 

Photograph no. 14635v by O.S., NEA.

Figure 169. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Skriðudalsjökull mountain glacier on 

6 September 2000. View looking to the west 

at the two mountain glaciers in Hörgárdalur. 

Lambárdalsjökull is on the left; Skriðudalsjökull

is on the right. Photograph no. 24054v by 

O.S., NEA.
180 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

SNJÓFJALLSJÖKULL Snæfellsjökull 64°50′N., 23°49′W.

64°48′N., 23°44′W.

Historic alternative name for SNÆFELLSJÖKULL. Cited in Landnáma, 

Hauksbók [14th century (Benediktsson, 1986, p. 132, footnote)].

Snjóskálarfönn* Norðurland 65°18′N., 18°19′W.

Snow patch on the flank of Torfufell (table 11). Cited by Rist (1985). 

Snótarjökull Hofsjökull Group 64°38′N., 19°13′W.

Mountain glacier in Snótarskarð, Kerlingarfjöll (fig. 4A), named for the Snót mountain peak by Jón Eyþórsson and Steinþór Sigurðsson and cited in ÁFÍ 1942 (p. 32). 

It has disappeared since they made their field observations. 

SNÆFELLSJÖKULL Snæfellsjökull 64°50′N., 23°49′W.

64°48′N., 23°44′W.

Ice cap located on a composite cone (stratovolcano) on Snæfellsnes in western 

Iceland (figs. 6, 92, 102, 128). The ice cap has five named outlet glaciers: Blágilsjökull, Hólatindajökull, Jökulhálsjökull, Hyrningsjökull, and Kvíahnúksjökull. 

SNÆFELLSJÖKULL takes its name from Snæfell (“Snow Mountain”) and, 

according to Jónsson (1953a, p. 36) is mentioned in many of the sagas although 

sometimes as a different name: Jökull in Atla saga Ótryggssonar; Snjófell in 

Bárðarsaga Snæfellsáss and Ármanns saga; and as SNÆFELLSJÖKULL

and SNJÓFJALLSJÖKULL in Landnámabók [Skarðsárbók (early 17th century 

(Benediktsson, 1986, p. 132, footnote)], Oddsson [1637 (1988, p. 493, 510)], Eiríks 

saga rauða, Bárðarsaga Snæfellsáss, and Víglundar saga. SNÆFELLSJÖKULL

is shown as Iokel on the Iceland part of Carta Marina, by Olaus Magnus, in 1539 

(Sigurðsson, 1971, p. 190) and as Snauel Jokel on a map by Gerhard Mercator in 

1569 (Sigurðsson, 1971, p. 229). It is noted by Magnússon [1702–1714 (1955, p. 54, 

58, 69; on p. 54 it is called Jökullinn)], on NCOI (Snæfells Iökull) (Sigurðsson, 

1978, ff p. 160), Ólafsson and Pálsson [1772 §436–§439 (1975, v. 2, p. 165–167)], 

and cited by Pálsson, who also used SNJÓFELLSJÖKULL as an alternative name 

[1795, §19 (2004, p. 103)]. It appears on the 1848 map by Björn Gunnlaugsson (UÍ1; 

Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 256). On all subsequent maps SNÆFELLSJÖKULL is shown 

without any names of outlet glaciers, including AK2 (1997) and C762 (5321III). 

However, Sigurðsson’s location map of SNÆFELLSJÖKULL (Sigurðsson, 1998, 

p. 5) shows three named outlet glaciers and three locations along the margin of 

the ice cap where fluctuation measurements are made: Jökulháls, Norðurkinn, and 

Suðurkinn (unlabeled point on map, although listed in table 1) (Sigurðsson, 1998, 

p. 6). SNÆFELLSJÖKULL was surveyed in 1910; the FB5N.A. (1911) and AB5 

(1911) were published by the Danish General Staff, the first modern map of the ice 

cap. Pálsson [1795, §11, §12, and §19 (2004)] notes that VESTURJÖKULL was 

used by sailors as an alternative name for SNÆFELLSJÖKULL; Niels Horrebow’s 

1752 map showed Wester Jökel instead of SNÆFELLSJÖKULL (Sigurðsson, 

1978, p. 157). Shown on the following maps: AB5 (1957), AÍ2 (1977), GMIP, 

GMIT, JÍB (1998), JÍK, JÍN, and Valsson (n.d.).

SÓLHEIMAJÖKULL Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°48′N., 19°26′W.

63°31′N., 18°47′W.

Historic name for MÝRDALSJÖKULL (fig. 3A). Noted in Konungsannáll [13th 

century (Jónsson, 1953, p. 44, 49)], Árna saga biskups (see Sturlunga saga [13th 

century (1988, p. 777)], by Oddur Einarsson [1585 (1971, p. 43)], and cited in 

Oddsson [1638 (1942, p. 63)]. Named for the Sólheimar farmstead.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 181

Sólheimajökull Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°35′N., 19°15′W.

The section of MÝRDALSJÖKULL (fig. 3A) that is adjacent to the Sólheimar 

farmstead, for which it is named. Cited by Oddsson [1638 (1942, p. 11, 101)], 

Ólafsson (1749, p. 37), Ólafsson [1772 (1975, p. 93)], and Pálsson [1795, §16 (2004, 

p. 78)] on perspective drawing, Tab. XII (2004, p. 79), and on his 1795 map (Tab. II) 

(Pálsson, 2004, p. 77). Noted as Solheima Iokul on Guðbrandur Þorláksson’s 

1590 map of Iceland (Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 16) and on NCOI as Solheima Iökull 

(Sigurðsson, 1978, p. 160).

Sólheimajökull Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°32′N., 19°21′W.

Outlet glacier on the southwestern margin of MÝRDALSJÖKULL (figs. 3A, 

150, 171). Magnússon ([1702–1714 (1955, p. 31–33)] notes that “Mýrdalsjökull, 

Sólheimajökull og Eyjafjallajökull er eitt.” (1955, p. 31). On p. 32 is a sketch map of 

the “three” glaciers, with Sólheimajökull extending in a curve from Mýrdalsjökull. 

Cited by Paijkull (1867b, p. 22) and Thoroddsen (1892, p. 123; 1911, p. 33). Shown 

on the following maps: FB59 N.A., AB59 (1973), C762 (5717I), C761 (1812II), AÍ6 

(1959), AK6 (1996), JÍB, JÍK6, JÍN6, and on location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 8). 

Named for the Sólheimar farmstead.

Jökulsárgilsjökull

“HÁBUNGA” Klifurárjökull

ÖRÆFAJÖKULL

Katla caldera

Figure 171. Oblique aerial photograph of the Sólheimajökull outlet glacier on 30 October 1985. View looking to the northeast toward the southern 

margin of the MÝRDALSJÖKULL ice cap; the Katla caldera is in the background. The lower part of the glacier is covered with black tephra from 

an eruption of Katla. The Jökulsárgilsjökull (left) and Klifurárjökull (right) outlet glaciers are visible. The ÖRÆFAJÖKULL internal ice cap is in the 

distance on the right. Photograph no. 7615 by O.S., NEA.
182 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Sótajökull Vatnajökull Group 64°48′N., 15°33′W.

Cirque glacier on the northeastern flank of Snæfell (figs. 2C, 29A, 172). Name 

derives from Hallgrímsson (1993, p. 69), who refers to a glacier at Sótavistir which 

Sigurður Þórarinsson (1964) and ÁFÍ 1987 (p. 65) called Hálsajökull, an alternative 

name. Named for a folktale giant.

SPRENGISANDSJÖKULL Vatnajökull Group 64°48′N., 18°01′W.

64°42′N., 17°49′W.

Probable historic name for TUNGNAFELLSJÖKULL. Cited by Oddsson (1638 

(1942, p. 103)]. Named for the Sprengisandur desert.

Staðargangnajökull eystri Norðurlandsjöklar 65°44′N., 18°48′W.

Alternative name for parts of Vesturárdalsjökull (figs. 8A, C, 191). Cited in Escritt 

(n.d., p. 36) and as two glaciers by Stötter (1991, p. 56). Shown as Glacier 05/D/24 

on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.), and on map in Stötter (1991, 

fig. 21) as glacier nos. 19 and 20. Eystri-Staðargangnajökull is an alternative 

spelling. Named for the Staðargöngur common.

Staðargangnajökull vestri Norðurlandsjöklar 65°44′N., 18°48′W.

Alternative name for parts of Vesturárdalsjökull [figs. 8A, C, 191). VestriStaðargangnajökull is an alternative spelling. Cited in Escritt (n.d., p. 36) and 

Stötter (1991, p. 56). Shown as Glacier 05/D/23 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and 

Escritt (n.d.), and on map in Stötter (1991, fig. 21) as glacier no. 21. Named for the 

Staðargöngur common.

Steinajökull Vatnajökull Group 64°15′N., 16°08′W.

Alternative name, by misunderstanding, for Brókarjökull on the southeastern 

margin of VATNAJÖKULL. Cited by Thoroddsen (1906, p. 198). Named for the 

abandoned Steinar farmstead.

Figure 172. Ground photograph 

of the Sótajökull cirque glacier on 

25 July 1982. View looking to the west 

toward the eastern slope of the Snæfell 

mountain. Photograph no. 5481 by 

O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 183

Steinsholtsjökull Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°40′N., 19°33′W.

Outlet glacier on the northern margin of EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL (figs. 3B, 42, 

173). Cited in ÁFÍ 1960 (p. 74 as Steinsholtsskriðjökullinn), by Kjartansson (1967, 

p. 249–262), and by Þórður Tómasson (1996, p. 55). Shown on the following maps: 

Þórður Tómasson (1996, p. 52), Kjartansson (1967, p. 250–251), Jón Jónsson 

(1989), and C761 (1812III). Named for the Steinsholt common.

Stigárjökull Vatnajökull Group 63°56′N., 16°37′W.

Outlet glacier from the southern margin of ÖRÆFAJÖKULL on the southern 

margin of VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 26A, 58, 91, 188). Commonly misspelled as 

Stígárjökull. Cited by Thoroddsen (1892), Eyþórsson 1934 (p. 97), and in ÁFÍ 1937 

(p. 30). Shown on the following maps: AB87 (1972), sérkort Skaftafell AB87/88 

(1979), C762 (6108IV), FB87 S.A. (1905), and on location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, 

p. 9). Named for the Stigá creek.

Stórhöfðajökull Vatnajökull Group 63°57′N., 16°39′W.

Outlet glacier on the southern margin of ÖRÆFAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 26A, 58, 

188). Cited by Jón Eyþórsson in J13 (p. 29). Named for the Stórhöfði hill.

Stórijökull Langjökull Group 64°48′N., 20°22′W.

Alternative name for Klofajökull. Cited in ÁFÍ 1962 (p. 17–19). ÁFÍ 2004 

(p. 288–289; map on p. 203) prefers Stórijökull, because KLOFAJÖKULL is an 

historic name for VATNAJÖKULL. Named for its being the biggest outlet glacier 

of EIRÍKSJÖKULL.

Suðurfjallsjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°37′N., 15°16′W.

Northern side of the outlet glacier Axarfellsjökull on the eastern margin of 

VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 154, 174, 188) on the north face of Suðurfjall, for 

which it is named. Cited by Thoroddsen (1906, p. 199). Also in ÁFÍ 1974 (p. 92). 

Shown on AK8 (1994).

Figure 173. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Steinsholtsjökull outlet glacier 

on 4 August 1999. View looking to the 

southwest toward the northern margin of the 

EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL ice cap. Photograph 

no. 22787 by O.S., NEA.
184 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

SUÐURJÖKLAR Langjökull Group 64°37′N., 20°35′W.

Historic name that probably referred collectively to ÞÓRISJÖKULL and 

GEITLANDSJÖKULL. Cited in Landnámabók (Pálsson and Edwards, 1972, p. 31, 

and Benediktsson, 1986, p. 77, 79), in ÁFÍ 2001 (p. 187), and in ÁFÍ 2004 (p. 262). 

Named for the direction from the settlement Geitland farmstead.

Suðurjökull Langjökull Group 64°36′N., 19°55′W.

Outlet glacier on eastern part of LANGJÖKULL (figs. 5, 139, 153). Shown on 

the following maps: AK5 (1948, 1967, 1968), AÍ5 (1996), and C761 (1814III). 

Also shown as Fremri-Skriðjökull on AK5 (1946) and AB56 (1977). Named 

for “southern” glacier of two glaciers embracing Skriðufell; the other glacier 

is Norðurjökull. Cited in ÁFÍ 1971 (p. 148, 150, 176), and ÁFÍ 1980 (p. 156). 

Anecdotal evidence suggests that Suðurjökull is a surge-type glacier (Björnsson 

and others, 2003, p. 85).

Suðursveitarjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°17′N., 16°09′W.

Historic name for the glacier adjacent to Suðursveit district, for which it is named 

(fig. 2A). Cited by Einarsson [1855 (1997, p. 125)].

Sultartungnajökull Vatnajökull Group 64°15′N., 15°48′W.

Alternative name for Eyvindstungnajökull. Cited in ÁFÍ 1993 (p. 138; on map on 

p. 148). Named for the Sultartungur grazing area.

S u ð u r f j a l l s j ö k u l l

A x a r f e l l s j ö k u l l

Figure 174. Oblique aerial photograph of the Suðurfjallsjökull outlet glacier on 28 September 2002. View looking to the southwest toward the 

eastern margin of the VATNAJÖKULL ice cap. Suðurfjallsjökull is on the right on the northern margin of the Axarfellsjökull outlet glacier which 

extends to the left. Photograph no. 26758h by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 185

Sultartungujökull Vatnajökull Group 64°15′N., 15°48′W.

Misspelling for Sultartungnajökull, alternative name for Eyvindstungnajökull. 

Cited in Bárðarson (1934, p. 11) and J6 (p. 13). 

Súlujökull Vatnajökull Group 64°01′N., 17°33′W.

Name for the southwestern margin of Skeiðarárjökull, on the southern margin of 

VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 166A, 188). Cited by Sigurðsson [1859 (1997, p. 157)] 

and Kålund [1877 (1984, v. IV, p. 82)]. Shown on the following maps: AK6 (1996), 

AÍ6 (1959, 1977), AB77 (1945, 1974), FB77 S.A. (1905, 1941, 1956), and C761 

(2013II). Named for the Súla River.

“Svartijökull” Suðurland 63°56′N., 16°46′W.

Jökulhlaup deposits from jökulhlaup from ÖRÆFAJÖKULL. Cited by Thoroddsen 

(1906, p. 193), ÁFÍ 1937 (p. 22, 24), ÁFÍ 1979 (p. 93), ÁFÍ 1993 (p. 87), and 

Thorarinsson (1958, p. 23, 33). On maps AB87 and AK9 (1996). See figure 10B and 

Table 10. Named for the dark color.

Sveipsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°32′N., 18°21′W.

Cirque glacier in Sveigur (the correct name is Sveipur and the glacier should, 

therefore, be called Sveipsjökull), a curving slope for which it is named, at the head 

of Hraungerðisdalur, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 136, 175). Cited by Escritt (n.d., 

p. 36) and Rist (1985) as Sveigsjökull. Shown as Glacier 05/G/07 on maps in Escritt 

(1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.).

Nautárdalsjökull Syðri-Króksárjökull

Sveipsjökul l

Glerárdalsjökull

Figure 175. Oblique aerial photograph of the Sveipsjökull cirque glacier on 6 September 2000. View looking to the west. The Syðri-Króksárjökull

mountain glacier is in the background. The Nautárdalsjökull cirque glacier is on the left. The upper part of the Glerárdalsjökull cirque glacier is on the 

right. Photograph no. 24091v by O.S., NEA.
186 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

SVIÐINHORNAJÖKULL Austfjarðajöklar 64°44′N., 14°58′W.

64°40′N., 14°52′W.

Historic name possibly for ÞRÁNDARJÖKULL. Cited by Oddsson [1638 (1942, 

p. 103)]. Named after Sviðinhornahraun and Sviðinhornadalur.

Svínadalsjökull Austfjarðajöklar 64°57′N., 14°22′W.

Cirque glacier in Svínadalur valley, for which it is named, Norðurdalur, Breiðdalur, 

eastern Iceland (figs. 9C, 176). Cited in Björgólfsson (1950, p. 409) and ÁFÍ 2002 

(p. 209). 

Svínafellsjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°26′N., 15°29′W.

Outlet glacier on the western margin of ÖRÆFAJÖKULL, southern margin of 

VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 26A, 163, 166A, B, 188). Cited by Gadde [1857 (1976, 

p. 79)], Paijkull (1866, p. 112), Thoroddsen (1892, p. 129), and ÁFÍ 1937 (p. 8, 13, 

15, 16). Shown on the following maps: JÍN9, AÍ9 (1976), JÍB (1998), AK9 (1997), 

AB87 (1972), FB87 S.V. and S.A. (1905), C762 (6019III), and on location map 

(Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 9). Named for the Svínafell farmstead.

Svínafellsjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°01′N., 16°51′W.

Southwestern margin of Hoffellsjökull, a western outlet glacier lobe that flows 

to the south-southeast between Jökulfell on the west and Öldutangi on the east 

(figs. 2A, 26A, 83, 188). Hoffellsjökull flows to the south-southeast east of 

Öldutangi. The two lobes of the outlet glacier are separated by two ridges from 

northwest to southeast: Öldutangi and Svínafellsfjall. Cited by Thoroddsen 

(1906, p. 199) who indicated that Svínafell divided an outlet glacier from 

VATNAJÖKULL in the Hornafjörður area into Hoffellsjökull on the east and 

Svínafellsjökull on the west. H. Wadell’s 1919 map of VATNAJÖKULL shows 

only Svínafellsjökull (Þórarinsson, 1974, p. 25). Cited by Gadde [1857 (1976, 

p. 67), Thoroddsen (1914b, v. 3, p. 217–218), Bárðarson (1934, p. 11, 15, 18), 

and Eyþórsson (1934, p. 97). Rist (1971, p. 93) indicated that “Hoffellsjökull 

W er skriðjökulstungan milli Jökulfells og Svínafells, í daglegu tali nefndur 

Svínafellsjökull.” Shown on the following maps: AÍ8 (1976), AB96 (1972), FB96 

S.A. (1905–1941), C762 (6119 IV), and on location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 9). 

Named for the Svínafell farmstead.

Figure 176. Oblique aerial photograph of 

the Svínadalsjökull mountain glacier (left 

foreground) on 16 September 2003. View 

looking to the east. The Móskjónujökull 

cirque glacier is in the right-center background. 

Photograph no. 28049v by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 187

Syðri-Króksárjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°29.1′N., 18°28.9′W.

Two mountain glaciers at the head of Skjóldalur, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 32, 

56, 89, 175). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 37). Shown as Glaciers 05/G/08 and 09 on 

maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Named for the Syðri-Króksá creek.

Sylgjujökull Vatnajökull Group 64°25′N., 18°02′W.

Surge-type outlet glacier on the western margin of VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 

131A, 177, 188). Named for the Sylgja River by Guttormur Sigbjarnarson (Rist, 

1971, p. 82). Shown on the following maps: J22 (p. 18), JÍB (1998), and JÍN6 

(1982).

Sælujökull nyrðri Norðurlandsjöklar 65°49.5′N., 18°31.5′W.

Cirque glacier at the head of Sæludalur, Skíðadalur, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 

84, 118). Nyrðri Sælujökull, cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 36) and Stötter (1991, p. 56), is 

an alternative spelling. Shown as Glacier 05/D/37 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) 

and Escritt (n.d.) and on map in Stötter (1991, fig. 21) as glacier no. 2. Named for 

the Sæla abandoned farmstead.

Sælujökull syðri Norðurlandsjöklar 65°49.3′N., 18°30.5′W.

Cirque glacier at the head of Sæludalur, Skíðadalur, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 84, 

118). Cited by Stötter (1991, p. 56). Shown as Glacier 05/D/36 on maps in Escritt 

(1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.), and on map in Stötter (1991, fig. 21) as glacier no. 3. 

Named for the Sæla abandoned farmstead.

Figure 177. Oblique aerial photograph of the Sylgjujökull surge-type outlet glacier on 28 October 1996 during a surge event. View looking to the 

northeast toward the western margin of the VATNAJÖKULL ice cap. The “BÁRÐARBUNGA” internal ice dome is in the left background. Photograph 

no. 18773h by O.S., NEA.
188 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

T

Teigardalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°49.3′N., 18°40.8′W.

Surge-type cirque glacier at the head of Teigardalur in Svarfaðardalur, northern 

Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 34). Cited in ÁFÍ 1973. Cited by Hallgrímsson (1972, p. 79–82) 

and Escritt (1975, p. 60), but misspelled Teigadalsjökull, and Stötter (1991, p. 56). 

Shown as Glacier 05/D/13 in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.) and on map in 

Stötter (1991, fig.21) as glacier no. 30. Named for the Teigardalur valley.

THORISDALURJÖKULL Langjökull Group 64°35′N., 20°48′W.

64°31′N., 20°38′W.

Alternative name for ÞÓRISJÖKULL. Name given by Wunder (1910, p. 123). 

Cited in ÁFÍ 2001 (p. 188). Named for the Þórisdalur mountain pass.

Thoroddsengletscher Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°32′N., 19°02′W.

A bifurcated outlet glacier on the southern side of MÝRDALSJÖKULL (figs. 3A, 

178). Named by Ebeling (1926, p. 102) in honor of professor Þorvaldur Thoroddsen.

Figure 178. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Thoroddsengletscher outlet glacier on 

26 July 1996. View looking to the north at the 

southern margin of the MÝRDALSJÖKULL

ice cap. Photograph no. 18251v by O.S., NEA.

Tindafjallajökull Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°49′N., 19°39′W.

63°46′N., 19°31′W.

Alternative spelling for Tindfjallajökull. Cited by Jónsson (1886, p. 55), 

Thoroddsen (1914a, v. 2, p. 225–228), and Thorarinsson (1943, p. 17). Cited in ÁFÍ 

1928 (p. 91), ÁFÍ 1933 (p. 3), and ÁFÍ 1945 (p. 28).

Tindfjallajökull Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°49′N., 19°39′W.

63°46′N., 19°31′W.

Mountain glacier on Tindfjöll, southern Iceland (figs. 3D, 22, 42, 179), in 2005 

consisting of two parts. Cited by Magnússon [1702–1714 (1955, p. 34)], Ólafsson 

[1772, §774, §833 (1975, v. 2, p. 96, and p. 156–157), Thoroddsen (1892, p. 124), 

Rist (1985), and ÁFÍ 1931 (p. 4). Tindafjallajökull is an alternative spelling. Shown 

on the following maps: Pálsson’s 1795 map of EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL [1795, 

Tab. II (2004, p. 77)], NCOI (Tinfialla Iökull), on T.H.H. Knopf’s 1731 Carte over 
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 189

Rangærvalle og Westmands Øers Sÿsseller (Tindefells Iokůll) (Sigurðsson, 1978, 

ff p. 144), Sæmundur Hólm (Sigurðsson, 1978, p. 174), UÍ1, GMIP, GMIT, JÍK6, 

JÍN6, JÍB (1998), AÍ6 (1977), AK6 (1996), AB58 (1945, 1964), FB58 N.V. (1903), 

C761 (1812IV), C762 (S718III), and sérkort Landmannalaugar-Þórsmörk (1985). 

Named for the Tindfjöll massif.

Tjarnhólajökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°48.5′N., 18°43′W.

Cirque glacier on the north side of Þverárdalur, Skíðadalur, northern Iceland 

(figs. 8A, C, 51). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 35). Shown as Glacier 05/D/15 on maps in 

Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Named after the Tjarnhólar hills.

TORFAJÖKULL Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°55′N., 19°04′W.

63°53′N., 18°57′W.

Ice cap in the highlands north of MÝRDALSJÖKULL, southern Iceland 

(figs. 3C, 42, 180). Cited by Magnússon [1702–1714 (1955, p. 26)], Ólafsson 

[1772, §774 (1975, v. 2, p. 95–96)], Pálsson [1795, §16 (2004, p. 82)], Thoroddsen 

(1892, p. 124), Thorarinsson (1943, p. 17), and Rist (1985). Shown on the following 

maps: T.H.H. Knopf’s 1733 Carte over Westere og Østere Skaftafellssÿssell (Torva 

Iokůl) (Sigurðsson, 1978, ff p. 144), NCOI (Torfa Iökull), Pálsson’s 1795 map of 

EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL [1795, Tab. II (2004, p. 77)], UÍ1, GMIP, GMIT, JÍK6, 

JÍN6 (1982), JÍB (1998), AÍ6 (1977), AK6 (1996), AB58 (1964)/AB68 (1969), C761 

(1912IV), C762 (5718I/5818IV), and sérkort Landmannalaugar-Þórsmörk (1985). 

Named for historic and legendary figure Torfi Jónsson í Klofa.

Torfnahnjúksfönn* Norðurland 65°12′N., 18°17′W.

Snow patch on the flank of Torfnahnjúkur (table 11). Cited by Rist (1985). 

Figure 179. Oblique aerial photograph of the Tindfjallajökull mountain glacier on 4 August 1999. View looking to the northwest toward the 

eastern margin of the glacier. Hekla volcano is visible in the right background. Photograph no. 22794v by O.S., NEA.
190 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Trölladalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°46.7′N., 18°28.4′W.

Mountain glacier at the head of Trölladalur, for which it is named, in Þorvaldsdalur, 

northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 151). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 36). Shown as Glacier 

05/E/08 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.).

Trölladyngjufönn* Miðháland 64°54′N., 17°15′W.

Snow patch on Trölladyngja, north-central Iceland (table 11). Cited by Rist (1985).

Tröllajökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°35.9′N., 18°20.2′W.

Mountain glacier on the northeast side of Tröllafjall in Glerárdalur, northern Iceland 

(figs. 8A, C, 181). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 36). Shown as Glacier 05/G/01 on maps 

in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Named for the Tröll (giants) dykes.

Túnahryggsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°41′N., 18°50′W.

Alternative spelling for Tungnahryggsjökull. Cited by Ólafsson [1772, §698 (1975, 

v. 2, p. 5), Pálsson [1795, §22 (2004, p. 106; see also Endnote no. 307, p. 174)], 

Vigfússon [1843 (1954, p. 123–126)], Thoroddsen (1892, p. 131, as Tunahryggsjökull; 1906, p. 207); and Thorarinsson (1943, p. 17). Shown on the following maps: 

UÍ3, GMIP, GMIT, and JÍB (1998).

Tungnaárjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°18′N., 18°09′W.

 Alternative spelling for Tungnárjökull. Cited in ÁFÍ 1940 (p. 23), ÁFÍ 1988 (p. 126), J5 

(p. 52), J6 (p. 35), and J7 (p. 50, 59). Shown on the following maps: JÍ6, JÍN6 (1982), JÍB (1998), 

AÍ6 (1959, 1977), AK6 (1996), C761 (1913I/1913II/2013IV), on location map (Sigurðsson, 

1998, p. 9), and on 1:25,000-scale map (Evans and others, 2006). OnAB66 (1979/AB67 

(1977)/AB76 (1977) and on C762 (5819I/5820II) Skaftárjökull is the name given to what 

is now called Tungnárjökull. Named by Pálmi Hannesson for the Tungná river.

“HÁBUNGA”

Sléttjökull

“GOÐABUNGA”

Entujökull

EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL Kaldaklofsjökull

Figure 180. Oblique aerial photograph of the TORFAJÖKULL ice cap on 19 September 2002. View looking to the southwest. The MÝRDALSJÖKULL

(left) and EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL (right) ice caps are in the background. Two internal ice domes are visible on MÝRDALSJÖKULL: “HÁBUNGA” (left) 

and “GOÐABUNGA” (right). The surge-type Sléttjökull outlet glacier and the Entujökull outlet glacier on the northern and northwestern margin of 

MÝRDALSJÖKULL are shown. The Kaldaklofsjökull mountain glacier is on the upper right. Photograph no. 020919 by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 191

TUNGNAFELLSJÖKULL Vatnajökull Group 64°48′N., 18°01′W.

64°42′N., 17°49′W.

Ice cap in central Iceland (figs. 2B, 182, 188). FLJÓTSJÖKULL is an alternative name. SANDJÖKULL, TUNGNAJÖKULL, SPRENGISANDSJÖKULL, 

and BLÁNÝPUJÖKULL are historic names. TUNGNAFELLSJÖKULL has 

two named outlet glaciers: Hagajökull fremri and Hagajökull innri. Cited by 

Kålund [1877 (1984, v. IV, p. 114, 117)]. Thoroddsen [1892, p. 131; 1906, p. 205; 

1911, p. 47–48 (in both the 1906 and 1911 citation, FLJÓTSJÖKULL is given as an 

alternative name)], Thorarinsson (1943, p. 17), and Rist (1985). Cited in ÁFÍ 1963 

(p. 47, same as FLJÓTSJÖKULL). Shown on the following maps: UÍ2, GMIT, 

JÍK5, JÍB (1998), AÍ5 (1946, 1968), AK5 (1996), AB75 (1976), C761 (2014III, 

2014IV), and C762 (5821II/5921III). Named for the Tungnafell mountain.

Figure 181. Oblique aerial photograph of the Tröllajökull mountain 

glacier in Glerárdalur. View looking to 

the west. The Kistufjallsjökull mountain 

glacier is in the left-middle background; 

to its right is Bægisárjökull, a 

surge-type cirque glacier. Photograph 

no. 24084h by O.S., NEA.

Hagajökull innri Hagajökull fremri

Figure 182. Oblique aerial photograph of the TUNGNAFELLSJÖKULL ice cap on 20 April 1999. View looking to the east. The Hagajökull 

innri (left) and the Hagajökull fremri (right) outlet glaciers descend from the western margin of the ice cap. Photograph no. 21805 by O.S., NEA.

T r ö l l a j ö k u l l

Kistufjal lsjökul l

Bægisárjökull
192 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Tungnahryggsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°41′N., 18°50′W.

Compound mountain glacier in Tröllaskagi, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 85, 121, 

167). Tungnahryggsjökull is composed of three glaciers in three separate basins: 

two noncontiguous lobes in the upper part of Kolbeinsdalur, a cirque glacier, 

Kolbeinsdalsjökull, a moraine-covered valley glacier in Kolbeinsdalur, and a cirque 

glacier, Barkárdalsjökull, in the upper part of Barkárdalur, contiguous over the 

divide, with the western lobe of Tungnahryggsjökull in Kolbeinsdalur. Local 

residents in Barkárdalur, however, refer to all three glaciers as Tungnahryggsjökull. 

Kolkujökull is an alternative name (Eyþórsson, 1956b, p. 23), and Túnahryggsjökull

is an alternative spelling. Kolbeinsdalsjökull and Tungnahryggsjökull eystri are 

alternative names for the eastern lobe in Kolbeinsdalur; Tungnahryggsjökull vestri 

is the name of the western lobe in Kolbeinsdalur. Cited by Pálsson [1795, §22 

(2004, p. 106; see also Endnote no. 307, p. 174)] and Rist (1985). Shown on the 

following maps: AÍ4 (1966), AK4 (1996), AB63 (1975), J45 (p. 11), C761 (1916III), 

C762 (5824III), and on location map (Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 11). Named for the 

Tungnahryggur mountain ridge.

Tungnahryggsjökull eystri Norðurlandsjöklar 65°42′N., 18°49′W.

Eastern part of Tungnahryggsjökull at the head of Kolbeinsdalur, northern Iceland 

(figs. 8A, C, 121). Alternative name for Kolbeinsdalsjökull. Cited by Escritt 

(n.d., p. 35). Shown as Glacier 04/Q/11 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt 

(n.d.). Named for the Tungnahryggur mountain ridge.

Tungnahryggsjökull vestri Norðurlandsjöklar 65°41′N., 18°52′W.

Western part of Tungnahryggsjökull at the head of Kolbeinsdalur, northern Iceland 

(figs. 8A, C, 121). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 35). Shown as Glacier 04/Q/10 on maps in 

Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Named for the Tungnahryggur mountain ridge.

TUNGNAJÖKULL Vatnajökull Group 64°48′N., 18°01′W.

64°42′N., 17°49′W.

Historic or poetic name for TUNGNAFELLSJÖKULL. Cited in Hallgrímsson 

(1989, p. 256); Ringler (2002, p. 346–347, who cites his poem, “Tómasarhagi” or 

“Tindrar úr Tungnajökli”), and ÁFÍ 1988 (p. 142). Named for the tongues between 

the rivers north of the glacier.

Tungnakvíslarjökull Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°40′N., 19°23′W.

Outlet glacier from the western margin of MÝRDALSJÖKULL (figs. 3A, 

95, 150, 183). Tungnakvíslajökull is a misspelling shown on the following 

maps: C761 (1812II) and sérkort Landmannalaugar-Þórsmörk (1985). Cited 

by Tómasson (1996, p. 66). Shown on the following maps: AK6 (1996), 

Jarðfræðikort af Eyjafjöllum (Jón Jónsson, 1989), and Tómasson (1996, p. 19, 

283). Hrunakvíslarjökull is a former distributary glacier of Tungnakvíslarjökull. 

Named for the Tungnakvísl river.

Tungnárjöklar Vatnajökull Group

Collective name for Skaftárjökull, Tungnárjökull, and Sylgjujökull (fig. 2A). 

Cited by Thorarinsson (1964, p. 77, 85) Named for the Tungná river. 

Tungnárjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°18′N., 18°09′W.

Surge-type outlet glacier on the southwestern margin of VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 

131A, 184, 188). Tungnaárjökull is an alternative spelling. Cited in ÁFÍ 1963 

(p. 66) and J7 (p. 45, 49). Shown on the following maps: J14 (map on p. 86 shows 

Northern and Southern Tungnárjökull) and J22 (p. 18). Named for the Tungná river.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 193

“GOÐABUNGA” “HÁBUNGA”

H r u n a j ö k u l l

Figure 184. Oblique aerial photograph of the Tungnárjökull surge-type outlet glacier on 8 February 1995. Tungnárjökull is in the latter 

part of a surge event. View looking to the northeast toward the southwestern margin of the VATNAJÖKULL ice cap. Photograph no. 16786h by 

O.S., NEA.

Figure 183. Oblique aerial photograph of the Tungnakvíslarjökull outlet glacier on 4 August 1999. View looking to the east toward the western 

margin of the MÝRDALSJÖKULL ice cap. Hrunajökull (southwestern margin of MÝRDALSJÖKULL) is on the right. The “GOÐABUNGA” and 

“HÁBUNGA” internal ice domes are in the distance on the left. Photograph no. 22785v by O.S., NEA.
194 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Tungudalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°48.8′N., 18°31.1′W.

Mountain glacier at the head of Ytri-Tungudalur, for which it is named, in Hörgárdalur, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 104). Alternative names are Dýjajökull, YtriTungudalsjökull, Dýjafjallshnjúksjökull, and Dyngjuhnjúksjökull. Cited by Escritt 

(n.d., p. 36). Shown as Glacier 05/F/02 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.).

Tungufönn Hofsjökull Group 64°53′N., 18°28′W.

Outlet glacier (on Miklafell) from the northeastern margin of HOFSJÖKULL (figs. 4A, 

86, 144, 185). Cited in ÁFÍ 1967 (p. 82; photo on p. 82), and ÁFÍ 2001 (p. 190). 

Named for its tongue-like shape by Hallgrímur Jónasson (ÁFÍ 1967, p. 82).

T u n g

u

f ö n n

M i k l a f e l l s j ö k u l l

Figure 185. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Tungufönn on 23 August 1998. View 

looking to the west toward the northeastern 

margin of the HOFSJÖKULL ice cap. The 

Miklafellsjökull ice-flow basin is on the left. 

Photograph no. 20904v by O.S., NEA.

Tungugilsjökull Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°36′N., 19°37′W.

Historic alternative name, probably for the Seljavallajökull outlet glacier on the 

southern margin of EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL, although Tungugil, for which the 

glacier is presumably named, is well known a little to the west of that location. 

Cited by Pálsson [1791 (1945, p. 28)].

Tungujökull* Norðurlandsjöklar 65°54′N., 19°01′W.

Snow patch at the head of Tungudalur in Fljót, Tröllaskagi, northern Iceland (table 11). 

Cited by Þorvaldsson [1840 (1954, p. 179)]. Named for the Tunga farmstead.

Tvíburajöklar Vatnajökull Group 64°48′N., 15°35′W.

Two parallel running, debris-covered cirque glaciers (alternatively named 

Dökkurðarjökull and Ljósurðarjökull) (figs. 2C, 15) on the northwest side of 

Snæfell. Grjótárjöklar is an alternative name. Cited by Hjartarson (2000, p. 2). 

Name means twin glacier.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 195

Tvífellsjökull Hofsjökull Group 64°58′N., 18°49′W.

On the northern part of HOFSJÖKULL, an ice-flow basin defined by radioechosounding surveys (figs. 4A, 86, 134). Named by Björnsson (1988, p. 64; 

Map 19, Glacier 16). Named for the Tvífell mountain.

Tvílækjajökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°38.6′N., 18°40.8′W.

Remnants of a mountain glacier in Barkárdalur, Hörgárdalur, northern Iceland 

(figs. 8A, C). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 36). Shown as Glacier 05/F/09 on maps in 

Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Named for the Tvílækir creek. 

U

Unadalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°51.1′N., 18°59.1′W.

Mountain glacier across the saddle between the Unadalur valley, for which it 

is named, in Skagafjörður and Skallárdalur in Svarfaðardalur, northern Iceland 

(figs. 8A, C, 36, 147). Cited by Ólafsson [1772, §698 (1975, v. 2, p. 5)], Pálsson 

[1795, §22 (2004, p. 105)], Guðmundsson [1868 (1954, p. 142)], Kålund [1877 

(1984, v. III, p. 64)], Thoroddsen (1892, p. 131), and Escritt (n.d.). Shown on the 

following maps: NCOI (Unudals Iökull), UÍ4, GMIP, GMIT, AB62 (1978), C761 

(1916IV, but name misplaced), C762 (5724I/5824IV), and as Glacier 04/R/01 on 

maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Misspelling of Unudalsjökull cited in 

Erlendsson [1839 (1954, p. 133)] and Jónsson [1841 (1954, p. 163)].

Úlfárjökull* Norðurland 65°17′N., 18°18′W.

Alternative name for the Úlfárskálarfönn* snow patch (fig. 186, table 11). Cited in 

J7 (p. 56, 57) and ÁFÍ 1991 (p. 176; specifically referred to as a glacier). Named for 

the Úlfá creek.

Úlfárskálarfönn* Norðurland 65°17′N., 18°18′W.

Snow patch in Úlfárskál, northeastern Torfufell, northern Iceland (fig. 186, table 11). 

Cited by Rist (1985). Úlfárjökull* is an alternative name. Named for the Úlfárskál 

cirque.

Figure 186. Ground photograph of the 

Úlfárjökull* snow patch on 15 August 2003. 

View looking to the west. Photograph 

no. 27469v by O.S., NEA.
196 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

V

Vaskárdalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°26′N., 18°34′W.

Mountain glacier in Vaskárdalur valley, for which it is named, Öxnadalur, 

Tröllaskagi, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 71, 187). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 36) and 

Häberle (1991, p. 186). Shown on map (Häberle, 1991, p. 105) as glacier no. 16 and 

as Glacier 05/F/17 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.).

Figure 187. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Vaskárdalsjökull mountain glacier 

on 6 September 2000. View looking to the 

southeast along Vaskárdalur. Photograph 

no. 24070v by O.S., NEA.

VATNAJÖKULL Vatnajökull Group 64°49′N., 17°42′W.

63°52′N., 15°23′W.

Iceland’s largest ice cap, southeastern Iceland (figs. 2A, 188). KLOFAJÖKULL, 

AUSTURJÖKULL, AUSTURJÖKLAR, and GRÍMSVATNAJÖKULL are 

historic names of the ice cap. VATNAJÖKULL includes a contiguous ice 

cap, ÖRÆFAJÖKULL, on its southern margin. VATNAJÖKULL has 

the following named outlet glaciers, ten of which are surge-type glaciers: 

Austurtungnajökull, Axarfellsjökull, Breiðamerkurjökull, Brókarjökull, 

Brúarjökull, Dyngjujökull, Eyjabakkajökull, Eyvindstungnajökull, 

Fellsárjökull, Fláajökull, Geldingafellsjökull, Grænalónsjökull, 

Heinabergsjökull, Hoffellsjökull, Kverkjökull, Kverkkvíslarjökull, 

Kvíslarjökull, Köldukvíslarjökull, Lambatungnajökull, Morsárjökull, 

Norðurtungnajökull, Rjúpnabrekkujökull, Síðujökull, Skaftárjökull, 

Skarphéðinsjökull, Skálafellsjökull, Skeiðarárjökull, Svínafellsjökull, 

Sylgjujökull, Tungnárjökull, Vesturdalsjökull, and Viðborðsjökull. 

VATNAJÖKULL and ÖRÆFAJÖKULL have 46 (48, including 

VATNAJÖKULL and ÖRÆFAJÖKULL themselves) glacier names. There 

are two named glaciers on the southeastern margin of VATNAJÖKULL that 

are not contiguous: Birnudalsjökull and Skrekkur, for a total of 50 glacier 

names. VATNAJÖKULL has three internal ice domes, “BÁRÐARBUNGA,” 

“BREIÐABUNGA,” and “HÁABUNGA,”and nine ice-margin names, one 

modern (see table 2). Breiðamerkurjökull has four ice streams, three of which 
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 197

are named, including two which surge: Esjufjallajökull Mávabyggðajökull, and 

Norðingalæðarjökull. Cited by Pálsson [1795, §12 (2004, p. 41)] who notes 

that KLOFAJÖKULL is also called VATNAJÖKULL on his 1794 map of 

KLOFAJÖKULL or VATNAJÖKULL, Tab. I (2004, p. 40)]. On UÍ2, GMIP, 

and GMIT VATNAJÖKULL or KLOFAJÖKULL is shown. Cited by Kålund 

[1877 (1984, v. IV, p. 114–118)], Thoroddsen (1892, p. 124–130), Thorarinsson 

(1943, p. 17), and Rist (1985). Shown on the following maps: JÍK 5/6, AÍ5 (1978), 

AÍ6 (1977), AÍ8 (1976), AÍ9 (1976), AK5 (1996), AK6 (1996), AK8 (1997), AK9 

(1997), AB66 (1979), AB67 (1977), AB75 (1976), AB76 (1977), AB77 (1974), 

AB85 (1977), AB86 (1945), AB87 (1972), AB95 (1955), AB96 (1972), AB97 

(1972), AB105 (1952), AB106 (1971); FB77 S.A. (1956), FB96 S.A. (1941), 

FB97 N.V. (1905), F87 N.A. (1941), FB87 S.A. (1905), FB87 N.V. (1941), FB87 

S.V. (1905); C762 (5819I and II, 5820II, 5918I, 5919I–IV, 5920I–IV, 5921II 

and III, 6018I and IV, 6019I–IV, 6020I–IV, 6021II and III, 6119IV, 6120I–IV, 

6121II and III); and C761 (1913I and II, 2012I, 2014I and II, 2114III, 2013I 

and II, 2113III and IV, 2012I, 2014I, II and III, and 2113IV). Named for the 

many large rivers and streams [Icelandic vötn, genitive (possessive) case, vatna] 

that originate in the glacier (Pálsson [1795 (2004, p. 41) or an abbreviation for 

GRÍMSVATNAJÖKULL, as suggested by Þórarinsson (1974, p. 9).

Vatnsdalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°31.5′N., 18°40′W.

Mountain glacier at the head of Vatnsdalur, for which it is named, in Öxnadalur, 

northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 189). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 36). Also cited in ÁFÍ 

1990 (p. 192) and Häberle (1991, p. 186). Shown as Glacier 05/F/14 on maps in 

Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.), on map in Häberle (1991, p. 105) as glacier 

no. 14.

0 10 20 KILOMETERS

64°30'N

18°W

17°W 16°W

Figure 188. Satellite image of 

the VATNAJÖKULL ice cap on 

22 September 1973. Digitally enhanced 

[EROS Digital Image Enhancement 

System (EDIES)] Landsat 1 MSS falsecolor composite image (1426-12070) 

from the USGS, EROS Data Center, 

Sioux Falls, SD 57198.
198 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Vatnsdalsjökull [1, 2, 3] Norðurlandsjöklar 65°47.8′N.,18°50.8′W. [1]

65°47.5′N.,18°49.3′W. [2]

65°47.6′N.,18°47.1′W. [3]

Three connected mountain glaciers at the head of Vatnsdalur, for which it is named, 

in Svarfaðardalur in Tröllaskagi, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 62, 190). Cited by 

Escritt (1975, p. 61) and Stötter (1991, p. 56, 57). Shown as Glaciers 05/D/7, 8, 

and 9 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.) and on map in Stötter (1991, 

fig. 21) as glaciers nos. 35, 36, and 37; however, Stötter shows another glacier as 

Vatnsdalsjökull 1 northeast of 3 at 65o47.9′N, 18o46.7′W., shows 3 as 2, 2 as 3, and 1 

as Vatnsdalsjökull [glacier no. 38 of Stötter (1991, fig. 21)].

Vesturárdalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°43.8′N., 18°48′W.

Mountain glaciers, usually connected by firn, at the head of Vesturárdalur, for 

which it is named, in Skíðadalur, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 191). Vesturárjökull

is an alternative name. Staðargangnajökull eystri and Staðargangnajökull vestri 

are alternative for parts of Vesturárdalsjökull. Cited by Ahlmann (1937, p. 223), 

Steindórsson (1949, p. 32), Rist (1985), ÁFÍ 1991 (p. 33), Escritt (n.d., p. 35), and 

Stötter (1991, p. 56). Shown as Glacier 05/D/22 on map in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and 

Escritt (n.d.) and on map in Stötter (1991, fig. 21) as glacier no. 22.

Bessahlaðajökull

Figure 189. Oblique aerial photograph of the Vatnsdalsjökull mountain glacier on 6 September 2000. View looking to the south. The Bessahlaðajökull 

mountain glacier is in the shadows on the left. Photograph no. 24066v by O.S., NEA. 
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 199

Vatnsdalsjökull

Grýtudalsjökull vestri

Þverárjökull Tungnahryggsjökull Heljarjökull Vífilsjökull

Figure 190. Oblique aerial photograph of Vatnsdalsjökull mountain glaciers on 6 September 2000. View looking to the southwest. From left to right 

are the following mountain glaciers in the middle background: Grýtudalsjökull vestri, Vatnsdalsjökull, Heljarjökull, and Vífilsjökull. In the far background 

is the Þverárjökull mountain glacier; to its right is the Tungnahryggsjökull compound mountain glacier. Photograph no. 24015v by O.S., NEA.

Vesturárjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°44′N., 18°49′W.

Alternative name for Vesturárdalsjökull. Cited by Thorarinsson (1943, p. 17). 

Named for the Vesturá river.

Vesturdalsjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°38′N., 15°19′W.

Outlet glacier on the northeastern margin of VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A,14, 54, 154, 

188, 192). Shown on AK8 (1997). Named for the Vesturdalur valley.

VESTURJÖKULL Snæfellsjökull 64°50′N., 23°49′W.

64°48′N., 23°44′W.

Historic alternative name for SNÆFELLSJÖKULL. Used by sailors, according 

to Pálsson [1795, §11 (2004, p. 39) and §19 (2004, p. 103; see also Endnote 

no. 216, p. 167)]. Shown on Niels Horrebow’s 1752 map of Iceland as Wester Jökel 

(Sigurðsson, 1978, p. 157). Named for its westerly position.

Vesturjökull Langjökull Group 64°45′N., 19°44′W.

Outlet glacier in HRÚTFELLSJÖKULL (figs. 5, 97). Cited by Jón Eyþórsson in 

J8 (p. 31) and in ÁFÍ 2001 (p. 191) as a provisional name. Westernmost glacier in 

group of three parallel outlet glaciers.
200 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Vesturárdalsjökull

(Staðargangnajökull eystri)

(Staðargangnajökull vestri)

Figure 191. Oblique aerial photograph of the Vesturárdalsjökull mountain glacier on 6 September 2000. The eastern part of Vesturárdalsjökull 

has alternative names of Staðargangnajökull eystri (left) and Staðargangnajökull vestri (left center). View looking to the west. Photograph 

no. 24035 by O.S., NEA.

Figure 192. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Vesturdalsjökull outlet glacier 

on 28 September 2002. View looking 

west toward the eastern margin of the 

VATNAJÖKULL ice cap. Photograph 

no. 26759v by O.S., NEA.

Viðborðsjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°26′N., 15°37′W.

Outlet glacier on the southeastern margin of VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 26A, 83, 

188). Cited by Thoroddsen (1892, p. 127) and ÁFÍ 1937 (p. 47). Shown on the 

following maps: J45 (p. 74), AÍ8 (1980, first appearance), and AK8 (1997). Named 

for the Viðborð farmstead.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 201

Vindheimajökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°38.7′N., 18°18′W.

Collective name applied to several mountain glaciers on the flanks of Strýta 

and Kista, Tröllaskagi, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 33) of which Húsárjökull, 

Fossárjökull, and Bungujökull are named. Cited as Windhamar Jökel on 1821 map 

in Sigurðsson (1978, myndblað 34, ff p. 224). Cited by Thoroddsen (1892, p. 131) 

and by Escritt (n.d., p. 36). ÁFÍ 1991 (p. 35) refers to three glaciers around Strýta 

and Kista that are collectively called Vindheimajökull. Shown on the following 

maps: UÍ3, GMIP, GMIT, AB63 (1975), AÍ4 (1966), AK4 (1996), and as Glacier 

05/F/24 on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Mislabeled on the 

following maps: C762 (5828I), and C761 (1916II). Named for the Vindheimar 

farmstead.

Vindheimajökull eystri Norðurlandsjöklar 65°39′N., 18°18′W.

Alternative name for Fossárjökull, Hörgárdalur, Tröllaskagi, northern Iceland. 

Cited by Häberle (1991, p. 186). Shown on map in Häberle (1991, p. 105) as glacier 

no. 20. Named for the Vindheimar farmstead.

Vindheimajökull vestri Norðurlandsjöklar 65°38′N., 18°19′W.

Alternative name for Húsárjökull, Hörgárdalur, Tröllaskagi, northern Iceland. 

Cited by Häberle (1991, p. 186). Shown on map in Häberle (1991, p. 105) as glacier 

no. 19. Named for the Vindheimar farmstead.

Virkisjökull Vatnajökull Group 63°59′N., 16°48′W.

Outlet glacier on the western margin of ÖRÆFAJÖKULL, southern margin of 

VATNAJÖKULL (figs. 2A, 26A, 44, 188), that merges with Falljökull under a 

debris cover. Falljökull vestari is an alternative name. Cited by Pálsson [1795, §14 

(2004, p. 64)] and Thoroddsen (1892, p. 128). In Thoroddsen (1906 and 1911), he 

refers to Virkisjökull or Falljökull; in Thoroddsen (1914b), he refers to Falljökull

or Virkisjökull. Cited in ÁFÍ 1937 (p. 18) and in ÁFÍ 1993 (p. 60; on map 

on p. 80). Cited by Escritt (1972, p. 62–64), who erroneously states (1972, p. 62) 

that “The whole glacier is called Falljökull but the name Virkisjökull is applied to 

the southern arm.” Shown on AÍ9 (1971, 1981) and AK9 (1997), AB87 (1972), on 

AB 87/88, the map on the reverse of sérkort Skaftafell (1991), and on location map 

(Sigurðsson, 1998, p. 9). The origin of virki (Icelandic for a fortress or castle), for 

which it is named, is not known.

Vífilsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°43.7′N., 18°54.2′W.

Mountain glacier at the head of Vífilsdalur, Svarfaðardalur, northern Iceland 

(figs. 8A, C, 190). Cited by Escritt (n.d., p. 35), Escritt (1975, p. 61) and Stötter 

(1991, p. 57) as two glaciers. Shown as Glacier 05/D/5 on maps in Escritt 

(1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.) and on map in Stötter (1991, fig. 21) as glacier nos. 

41 and 42. Named for Vífilsfjall mountain. 

Vörðufellsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°41.8′N., 18°44.2′W.

Two glaciers (cirque and mountain) on the north side of Vörðufell mountain, for 

which it is named, Skíðadalur, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 167). Cited by Escritt 

(n.d., p. 36) and Stötter (1991, p. 56). Shown as Glacier 05/D/27 on maps in Escritt 

(1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.), and on map in Stötter (1991, fig. 21) as glacier nos. 

13 and 14.
202 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Y

Ytri-Tungudalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°45′N., 18°30′W.

Alternative name for Tungudalsjökull, Hörgárdalur, northern Iceland. Cited by 

Häberle (1991, p. 186). Shown on map (Häberle, 1991, p. 105) as glacier no. 5.

Þ

Þaralátursjökull Vestfjarðajöklar 66°13′N., 22°13′W.

Outlet glacier on the northeastern margin of DRANGAJÖKULL that flows 

toward Þaralátursfjörður (figs. 7A, 37A, 142). Shown on location map (Sigurðsson, 

1998, p. 5, cited on p. 8). Named for the Þaralátur breeding grounds for seals.

Þjórsárjökull Hofsjökull Group 64°45′N., 18°42′W.

Surge-type outlet glacier (2 lobes that surge separately) on the southeastern margin 

of HOFSJÖKULL north of Arnarfell (figs. 4A, 86, 193). Shown on the following 

maps: JÍK5, JÍB (1998), AÍ5 (1978), AK5 (1996), C761 (1914I– IV), and in 

Björnsson (1988, p. 65 and nos. 16, 19, and 21). Named for the Þjórsá river.

Miklafel lsjökul l

H á ö l d u j ö k u l l

Þorvaldsjökull Langjökull Group 64°47′N., 20°20′W.

Outlet glacier on the northeastern margin of EIRÍKSJÖKULL (figs. 5, 30, 194). 

Named by Pálmi Hannesson in 1923 (1927, p. 37) for Þorvaldur Thoroddsen. 

Cited in ÁFÍ 1929 (map ff p. 36) and shown on a sketch map by Jón Víðis (Bruun, 

1925, p. 80–81). 

Þórðarjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°30′N., 15°19′W.

Alternative name for Lambatungnajökull. Named in ÁFÍ 1937 (p. 69) in honor of 

Þórður Þorkelsson Vídalín.

Figure 193. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Þjórsárjökull surge-type outlet 

glacier on 9 September 1980. View 

looking to the north toward the eastern 

margin of the HOFSJÖKULL ice cap. 

The Háöldujökull outlet glacier and 

Miklafellsjökull ice-flow basin are in the 

upper right. Photograph no. 4686v by 

O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 203

ÞÓRISJÖKULL Langjökull Group 64°35′N., 20°48′W.

64°31′N., 20°38′W.

Ice cap in west-central Iceland (figs. 5, 195), consisting of two parts, a large eastern 

one and a very small western one. ÞÓRISJÖKULL has several unnamed outlet 

glaciers. Named in the tradition of Þórisdalur, which lies between ÞÓRISJÖKULL

and GEITLANDSJÖKULL. THORISDALURJÖKULL is an alternative name. 

Local people retain the name GEITLANDSJÖKULL for both ÞÓRISJÖKULL

and GEITLANDSJÖKULL. SUÐURJÖKLAR is a collective historic name for 

both glaciers. ÁFÍ 2004 (map on p. 13, p. 180) argues that Geitlandsjökull syðri is 

the correct name, not ÞÓRISJÖKULL. Thoroddsen’s GMIT shows an unnamed 

glacier separated from GEITLANDSJÖKULL by Þórisdalur. Thoroddsen (1915) 

described a separate ice cap based on direct field observation. Suggested by Bruun 

(1925, p. 41, and on a sketch map by Jón Víðis p. 80-81). Shown on the following 

maps: AB46, AK5 (1996), AÍ5 (1978), JÍK5, JÍB (1998), C762 (5620IV), and C761 

(1714III).

“ÞÓRSMERKURJÖKULL” Myrdalsjökull Group 63°39′N., 19°16′W.

Alternative name for “MERKURJÖKULL,” an internal ice dome in the western part 

of MÝRDALSJÖKULL. Cited by Zirkel (1861, p. 40) as Þórsmórkur Jökull.

Ögmundarjökull

Þ o r v a l d s j ö

k u l l

Figure 194. Oblique aerial photograph of the Þorvaldsjökull outlet glacier on 15 September 2003. View looking to the west toward the eastern 

margin of the HOFSJÖKULL ice cap. The Ögmundarjökull outlet glacier is a little left of center. Þorvaldsjökull is on the right. Photograph 

no. 27600v by O.S., NEA.
204 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

A

B Figure 195. A, Oblique aerial 

photograph of the ÞÓRISJÖKULL 

ice cap on 15 September 2003. View 

looking to the south. Photograph 

no. 27565v by O.S., NEA. 

B, Oblique aerial photograph of 

ÞÓRISJÖKULL on 19 August 1973. 

View looking to the north. Skjaldbreiður, 

a shield volcano, is in the left 

foreground. The Okjökull mountain 

glacier is in the left background. 

ÞÓRISJÖKULL is in the center. The 

GEITLANDSJÖKULL internal ice cap 

is in the right-center background. 

Part of the LANGJÖKULL and 

EIRÍKSJÖKULL ice caps are on the far 

right. Photograph by R.S.W., USGS.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 205

Þrastarhólsskarðsjökull* Norðurland 65°48′N., 18°20′W.

Snow patch in Þrastarhólsskarð, for which it is named, Hörgárdalur, Tröllaskagi 

(table 11). Cited by Häberle (1991, p. 186). Shown on map (Häberle, 1991, p. 105) 

as “glacier” no. 1.

ÞRÁNDARJÖKULL Austfjarðajöklar 64°44′N., 14°58′W.

64°40′N., 14°52′W.

Ice cap in eastern Iceland (figs. 9A, 196). Cited by Olavius [1780 (1965, v. 2, p. 130, 

133)] and Pálsson [1795, §12 (2004, p. 46); included on the 1794 map of KLOFAJÖKULL or VATNAJÖKULL, Tab. I (2004, p. 40). MIÐLANDSJÖKULL and 

SVIÐINHORNAJÖKULL are historic alternative names. Cited by Kålund [1877 

(1984, v. IV, p. 51, 53)], Thoroddsen (1892, p. 131, as Thrándarjökull), Thoroddsen 

(1911, p. 47), Thorarinsson (1943, p. 17, as Thrándarjökull), and Rist (1985). Shown 

on the following maps: UÍ2, GMIP, GMIT, JÍB (1998), AÍ8 (1976), AK8 (1997), 

AB105 (1976), and C762 (6221III). Named for Þrándur, who is an unknown figure.

Þríjökull Langjökull Group 64°45′N., 19°43′W.

Collective name for three outlet glaciers on the north side of HRÚTFELLSJÖKULL (fig. 5). Cited in Eyþórsson (1942, p. 127). Named so because there are 

three in a group.

Þrístapajökull Langjökull Group 64°45′N., 20°13′W.

Outlet glacier on the western margin of LANGJÖKULL (figs. 5, 50, 197). Anecdotal 

evidence suggests that Þrístapajökull is a surge-type glacier (Björnsson and others, 

2003, p. 85). Named by Thoroddsen (1911, p. 25) in the tradition of Þrístapafell 

(ÁFÍ 2004, p. 292). Hallmundarjökull is an alternative name. Shown on map C762 

(1714I, 1714II).

Þverárdalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°46′N., 18°48′W.

Alternative name for Þverárjökull. Cited in Steindórsson (1949, p. 32) and ÁFÍ 

1990 (p. 78). Named for the Þverárdalur valley.

Figure 196. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the ÞRÁNDARJÖKULL ice cap on 

27 September 1977. View looking to the 

southeast. Photograph no. 3431h by 

O.S., NEA.
206 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Þverárjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°46.3′N., 18°47.5′W.

Mountain glaciers, usually connected by firn, at the head of Þverárdalur in 

Skíðadalur, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 59, 190, 198). Þverárdalsjökull is an alternative name. Stötter (1991, p. 56) refers to the eastern part of Þverárjökull as Eystri 

Þverárjökull (65o46′N.,18o45′W.) and to the western part as Vestri Þverárjökull

(65o46′N.,18o48′W.). Þverárjökull eystri and Þverárjökull vestri are cited in Escritt 

(n.d., p. 35). Cited in ÁFÍ 1946 (p. 80) and ÁFÍ 1973 (p. 100, 101). Cited by 

Ahlmann (1937, p. 222) and Thorarinsson (1943, p. 17, as Thverárjökull). Shown on 

the following maps: AB62 (1973), C761 (1916 IV), AK4 (1996), AÍ4 (1966), and ÁFÍ 

1990 (p. 67). Shown as Glaciers 05/D/17 (eystri) and 05/D/16 (vestri) on maps in 

Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.) and on map in Stötter (1991, fig. 21) as glacier 

nos. 28 (Eystri) and 29 (Vestri). Named for the Þverá river.

Þverárjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°54.2′N., 18°45.6′W.

Mountain glacier in the upper part of Bakkadalur, a tributary to Þverárdalur, 

Svarfaðardalur, northern Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 199). Cited as two glaciers in Stötter 

(1991, p. 57). Shown on map in Stötter (1991, fig. 21) as glacier no. 48. Named for 

the Þverá creek.

Þverárjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°53.6′N., 18°44.2′W.

Cirque glaciers on the north side of the mountain Auðnasýling in the upper part of 

Þverárdalur, Svarfaðardalur, northern Iceland (fig. 8A, C, 199). Shown as Glacier 

05/D/02 [Thverárjökull] on maps in Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Cited 

by Stötter (1991, p. 57); shown on map in Stötter (1991, fig. 21) as glacier no. 47. 

Named for the Þverá creek.

Figure 197. Oblique aerial photograph of the Þrístapajökull outlet glacier on 15 September 2003. View looking to the southeast at the western 

margin of the LANGJÖKULL ice cap. The Þursaborg nunatak is in the center background. The HRÚTFELLSJÖKULL ice cap is in the far left 

background. Photograph no. 27698v by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 207

Tungnahryggsjökull Skíðadalsjökull eystri Skíðadalsjökull vestri

Þverárjökull eystri

Þverárjökull vestri

Figure 198. Oblique aerial photograph of the Þverárjökull mountain glacier on 6 September 2000. View looking to the south; on the left is an 

unnamed mountain glacier. Þverárjökull is on the right. The Skíðadalsjökull eystri (left) and Skíðadalsjökull vestri (right) mountain glaciers are behind 

Þverárjökull in the right center. Þverárjökull eystri and Þverárjökull vestri are parts of Þverárjökull. The Tungnahryggsjökull compound mountain 

glacier is in the background. Photograph no. 24034v by O.S., NEA.

Figure 199. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Þverárjökull cirque glaciers (right 

background) on 6 September 2000. View 

looking to the south toward the northern side 

of the Auðnasýling mountain peak in the 

upper part of Þverárdalur, a tributary valley 

in Svarfaðardalur. The Þverárjökull mountain 

glacier in the upper part of Bakkadalur, 

Þverárdalur, Svarfaðardalur, is on the middle 

right. Photograph no. 24018v by O.S., NEA.
208 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

Þverárjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°51.4′N., 18°29.8′W.

Mountain glacier on the south side of the mountain Rimar in Þorvaldsdalur, northern 

Iceland (figs. 8A, C, 74). Shown as Glacier 05/E/1 [Thverárjökull] on maps by 

Escritt (1975, p. 62) and Escritt (n.d.). Named for the Þverá creek.

Þverártindsjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°13′N., 16°09′W.

Collective name for the glaciers around Þverártindsegg (figs. 2A, 46). Cited by 

Thoroddsen (1911, p. 50). Named for the Þverártindur mountain peak.

Þverdalsjökull Norðurlandsjöklar 65°48.2′N., 18°52′W.

Two cirque glaciers at the head of Þverdalur, for which it is named, in Vatnsdalur, 

Svarfaðardalur, northern Iceland. Cited in Stötter (1991, p. 57). Shown on map in 

Stötter (1991, fig. 21) as glacier nos. 39 and 40. Alternative name for Heljarjökull,

which has precedence.

Þverfellsjökull Hofsjökull Group 64°41′N., 19°02′W.

On the southwestern part of HOFSJÖKULL, an ice-flow basin defined by surface 

topography during radio-echosounding surveys (figs. 4A, 86, 200). Named by 

Björnsson (1988, p. 64; Map 19, Glacier 8) for the Þverfell mountain.

ÞYKKVABÆJARJÖKULL Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°48′N., 19°26′W.

63°31′N., 18°47′W.

Historic name for MÝRDALSJÖKULL (fig. 3A). Cited in Oddsson [1638 

(1942, p. 63)] and ÁFÍ 1975 (p. 126). Named for the Þykkvabær farmstead.

Æ

Ærfjallsjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°01′N., 16°25′W.

Alternative name used for Fjallsjökull. Cited in ÁFÍ 1937 (p. 33). Named for the 

Ærfjall nunatak.

Þ v e r f e l l s j ö k u l l

Figure 200. Oblique aerial photograph 

of the Þverfellsjökull ice flow basin on 

23 August 1998. View looking to the 

north toward the southern margin of 

the HOFSJÖKULL ice cap. Part of the 

Blautukvíslarjökull outlet glacier is 

on the right. In the right background 

are the Tanni and Hásteinar nunataks. 

Photograph no. 20932v by O.S., NEA.
Alphabetical List of the Glaciers of Iceland 209

Ö

Ögmundarjökull Langjökull Group 64°46′N., 20°20′W.

Outlet glacier on the eastern margin of EIRÍKSJÖKULL (figs. 5, 194). Named 

by Pálmi Hannesson in 1923 [1927 (1958, p. 18, 29)] for Ögmundur Sigurðsson, a 

traveling companion of Thoroddsen. Shown on a sketch map by Jón Víðis (Bruun, 

1925, p. 80–81) and ÁFÍ 1929 (ff p. 36). Cited in ÁFÍ 1962 (p. 19) and ÁFÍ 2004 

(p. 289). Shown on the following maps: AB45 (1968), AÍ5 (1981), AK5 (1996) and 

C761 (1714I) in all cases incorrectly in the location of Þorvaldsjökull.

Öldufellsjökull Mýrdalsjökull Group 63°44′N., 18°51′W.

Surge-type outlet glacier on the northeastern margin of MÝRDALSJÖKULL

(figs. 3A, 150, 201). Cited in ÁFÍ 1960 (p. 44) and J20 (p. 86). Shown on the 

following maps: AÍ6 (1977), AK6 (1996), JÍB (1998), sérkort LandmannalaugarÞórsmörk (1985), AB68 (1969), C761 (1912III), and on location map (Sigurðsson, 

1998, p. 8). Named for the Öldufell mountain.

Figure 201. Oblique aerial photograph of the Öldufellsjökull surge-type outlet glacier on 11 September 1992. View looking to the west toward the 

northeastern margin of the MÝRDALSJÖKULL ice cap. The EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL ice cap is in the distant right-center background. Photograph 

no. 14634v by O.S., NEA.
210 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern

ÖRÆFAJÖKULL Vatnajökull Group 64°06′N., 16°56′W.

63°55′N., 16°25′W.

Contiguous ice cap within and on the southern margin of VATNAJÖKULL

(figs. 2A, 26A, 48, 58, 91, 166, 188). HNAPPAFELLSJÖKULL, KNAPPAFELLSJÖKULL, SANDFELLSJÖKULL, JÖKULL, and HNAPPAVALLAJÖKULL 

are historic alternative names. ÖRÆFAJÖKULL has 13 named outlet glaciers: 

Falljökull, Fjallsjökull, Gljúfursárjökull, Hólárjökull, Hrútárjökull, Kotárjökull, Kvíárjökull, Rótarfjallsjökull, Skaftafellsjökull, Stigárjökull, Stórhöfðajökull, Svínafellsjökull, and Virkisjökull. Cited by Magnússon [1702–1714 

(1955, p. 17, 21, 30), Ólafsson (1749, p. 37), P. Vídalín [1754, V. §7 (1965, p. 41)], 

Ólafsson [1772, §766, §782 (1975, v. 2, p. 86–87; p. 105–106)], von Troil [1777 

(1961, p. 115, 116)], and Pálsson [1795, §14 (2004, p. 62), on his 1794 map of 

KLOFAJÖKULL or VATNAJÖKULL, Tab. I (2004, p. 40), and on Perspective 

Drawings, Tab. V (2004, p. 70) and Tab. VII (2004, p. 48)]. Cited by Kålund [1877 

(1984, v. IV, p. 63–65)] and Thoroddsen (1892, p. 128). Shown on NCOI (Øræfa 

Iökull), UÍ2, GMIP, GMIT, JÍB, JÍN, AB87 (1972), FB87 S.A., AÍ9 (1976), AK9 

(1997), C762 (6019III, IV), and AB87/88, map on the reverse of sérkort Skaftafell 

(1974). Named for the Öræfi district.

Öskjufönn* Miðháland 65°01′N., 16°43′W.

Snow patches in Askja, after which it is named, north-central Iceland (table 11). 

Cited by Rist (1985). 

Öxarfellsjökull Vatnajökull Group 64°35′N., 15°13′W.

Alternative spelling for Axarfellsjökull. Cited by Rist (1985). Shown on the 

following maps: AB105 (1952)/AB106 (1971), AÍ8 (1946), C762 (6120I), and JÍB. 

Named for the Öxarfell (Axarfell) mountain.
References Cited 211

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Ferðafélag Íslands (Reprinted in 1982; Introduction by Haraldur Sigurðsson; 

facsimile of original text in Latin, and translation into Icelandic, 59 p.).

Þorsteinsson, Þorsteinn, Sæmundsson, Kjartan, Sigurgeirsson, Edvard, 

Dalmannsson, Ármann, Trausta, Jónas H., 1942, Ferðaáætlun Ferðafélags 

Akureyrar: Ferðir, v. 3, no. 1, p. 11–14.

Þorvaldsson, Stefán, 1954 [written in 1840], XIV. Knappstaðasókn, 1840, in

Hannesson, Pálmi, and Benediktsson, Jakob, eds., Safn til landfræðisögu 

Íslands, Sýslu- og sóknalýsingar Hins íslenska bókmenntafélags 1839-1873. II. 

Skagafjarðasýsla: Akureyri, Bókaútgáfan Norðri, p. 178–186.

Þórarinsson, Sigurður, 1958, Flatarmál nokkurra íslenzkra jökla samkvæmt herforingjaráðskortunum [Area of the biggest glaciers in Iceland acc. to the Geodætic 

Institute Maps]: Jökull, v. 8, p. 25.

Þórarinsson, Sigurður, 1959, Um möguleika á því að segja fyrir næsta Kötlugos: 

Jökull, v. 9, p. 6–18.

Þórarinsson, Sigurður, 1965, Þórður Þorkelsson Vídalín og jöklarit hans; foreword to 

Jöklarit Þórðar Þorkelssonar Vídalín: Reykjavík, Ferðafélag Íslands, 217 p. [The 

book includes a foreword by Sigurður Þórarinsson and the Icelandic translation of 

“Isländischen Eisebergen.” The translation is followed by a facsimile of the 1754 

treatise in German (published in 1754 by Páll Bjarnason Vídalín, who also wrote 

the postscript, although completed on 1 July 1695. The glacier place-names are 

taken from Eggert Ólafsson’s (1749) Enarrationes. The book was prepared as a 

special publication to honor Jón Eyþórsson, Icelandic meteorologist/glaciologist, 

on the occasion of his 70th birthday on 27 January 1965.]

Þórarinsson, Sigurður, 1974, Vötnin stríð. Saga Skeiðarárhlaupa og Grímsvatnagosa: 

Reykjavík, Bókaútgáfa Menningarsjóðs, 254 p.

Þórarinsson, Sigurður, and Rist, Sigurjón, 1955, Rannsókn á Kötlu og Kötluhlaupi 

sumarið 1955. Bráðabirgða-greinargerð: Jökull, v. 5, p. 43–46.

Appendix (Rist, 1985)
A2 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern
Appendix A3
A4 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern
Appendix A5
A6 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern 66oN 65oN

64oN

24oE 22oE 20oE 18oE 14oE 16oE

0 50 KILOMETERS

Glaciers and the Main Snow Patches in Iceland (July 1985). OS VOD VM 925 S Rist 85070940 IS
Appendix A7
Oddur Sigurðsson and Richard S. Williams, Jr. — — USGS/PP 1746 Geographic Names of Iceland’s Glaciers: Historic and Modern