20 Fascinating Kerid Crater Facts

Over 20 fun facts about Kerid Crater including 10 fun facts about Kerid Crater especially for kids plus learn more about its geography, legends, and much more!

About Kerid Crater
Fun Facts About Kerid Crater
Fun Facts About Kerid Crater for Kids
Geography and Geology
Legends of Kerid Crater

Fun Facts About Kerid Crater – About Kerid Crater

The Kerid Crater, also known as Kerið, is a volcanic crater located in Iceland. It is situated in the southern part of the country, approximately 55 kilometers (34 miles) east of Reykjavik, the capital city.

Kerid is part of a volcanic crater group called Tjarnarhólar, which was formed during a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago. It is one of the most well-known and visually striking craters in Iceland due to its unique characteristics.

What sets Kerid apart is its stunningly blue, mineral-rich lake that fills the crater’s bowl-like shape. The lake’s color is the result of the minerals dissolved in the water and the volcanic rock surrounding the crater. The vibrant blue hue of the lake against the contrasting red volcanic rock creates a mesmerizing sight for visitors.

The crater has a diameter of approximately 270 meters (890 feet), a depth of around 55 meters (180 feet), and a lake that spans about 14,000 square meters (150,000 square feet). Visitors can walk around the rim of the crater and descend to the water’s edge. The surrounding area is adorned with lush vegetation, making the location even more picturesque.

In addition to the fun facts about Kerid Crater, Kerid Crater is a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors who come to admire its natural beauty, take photographs, and learn about Iceland’s geological history. It offers a unique opportunity to explore a volcanic crater and experience the country’s dramatic landscapes firsthand.

Fun Facts About Kerid Crater – Fun Facts

Here are 10 fun facts about Kerid Crater:

Age: Kerid Crater is estimated to be around 3,000 years old, making it a relatively young geological feature.
Color-changing lake: The color of the lake within the crater can vary throughout the year, ranging from deep blue to turquoise or even green, depending on the amount of sunlight, precipitation, and mineral content.
Volcanic cone: Kerid is what remains of a volcanic cone after an eruption depleted the magma chamber, causing the cone to collapse inward and form the characteristic crater shape.
Caldera theory: Some geologists believe that Kerid may have formed as a result of a volcanic eruption within a larger caldera. This theory suggests that the surrounding area could be part of a collapsed volcanic system.
Volcanic rock layers: The walls of the crater expose various layers of volcanic rock, including red volcanic scoria and ash, providing a fascinating glimpse into the region’s geological history.
Vegetation and biodiversity: Despite its barren appearance, Kerid Crater supports a variety of plant life. Mosses, grasses, and other hardy species have managed to take root within the crater’s slopes.
Acoustic properties: Due to its unique shape and natural amphitheater-like features, Kerid Crater has excellent acoustic properties. It is occasionally used as a venue for musical performances and concerts.
Size comparisons: Although not the largest volcanic crater in Iceland, Kerid stands out due to its well-defined shape and the striking contrast between the blue lake and the surrounding red walls.
Protected area: Kerid Crater is part of the Kerid Nature Reserve, which ensures its preservation and conservation for future generations to enjoy.
Accessibility: Kerid is easily accessible for visitors. It has a parking lot and well-maintained walking paths that allow visitors to explore the rim and descend to the lake’s edge, providing an up-close experience of this geological wonder.

We hope you enjoyed these fun facts about Kerid Crater!

Fun Facts About Kerid Crater – Fun Facts for Kids

Here are 10 fun facts about Kerid Crater that kids might enjoy:

Colorful lake: The lake inside Kerid Crater is an incredible shade of blue, just like a giant natural swimming pool.
Volcanic playground: Kerid Crater is like a giant outdoor playground made of volcanic rocks. You can climb, explore, and even imagine it as a secret volcano hideout!
Magical acoustics: The shape of the crater creates amazing echoes. You can try shouting or singing inside and hear your voice bounce back.
Monster hunting: Legends say that a lake monster lives in Kerid Crater’s lake. Kids can pretend to be brave monster hunters on the lookout for the mythical creature.
Rock collection: The crater walls are made of different types of volcanic rocks. Kids can search for unique pieces and start their own rock collection.
Tiny island: There is a small island in the middle of the lake. It’s like a secret land that can only be reached by a bridge. Kids can imagine it as an enchanted island full of adventure.
Nature detective: The plants growing inside the crater are perfect for nature detectives. Kids can spot different types of moss, grass, and maybe even some bugs hiding among the vegetation.
Scenic picnic spot: Kerid Crater offers a beautiful setting for a picnic. Families can bring snacks and enjoy a meal while surrounded by the breathtaking volcanic landscape.
Great for photos: The vibrant colors and unique shape of Kerid Crater make it a fantastic place to take memorable family photos. Kids can strike funny poses or pretend to be volcanologists!
Close encounters with nature: Kerid is home to various birds, like ducks and geese, which kids can observe and learn about. It’s a chance to get close to nature and appreciate Iceland’s wildlife.

We hope you enjoyed these fun facts about Kerid Crater!

Fun Facts About Kerid Crater – Geography and Geology

Kerid Crater is located in the southern part of Iceland, about 55 kilometers (34 miles) east of Reykjavik, the capital city. It is situated within the volcanic zone of the country, known for its dramatic landscapes shaped by volcanic activity.

Geographically, Kerid Crater is a cone-shaped volcanic crater with a bowl-like structure. It has a diameter of approximately 270 meters (890 feet) and a depth of around 55 meters (180 feet). The crater stands out due to its distinct red-colored walls, which are composed of volcanic scoria and ash. The contrasting colors of the crater walls and the blue lake within create a visually striking scene.

From a geological perspective, Kerid is a volcanic crater formed through a combination of explosive eruptions and subsequent collapse. It is believed to be a part of a larger volcanic system that experienced volcanic activity thousands of years ago. The crater was created when a volcanic cone collapsed into itself after the magma chamber beneath it emptied during an eruption.

The inner part of Kerid Crater hosts a lake, which is one of its defining features. The lake is estimated to be around 14,000 square meters (150,000 square feet) in area and is filled with mineral-rich water. The presence of minerals contributes to the vibrant blue color of the lake, which can vary in intensity depending on environmental factors.

The surrounding area of Kerid Crater is characterized by volcanic rock formations and lush vegetation. Despite the harsh volcanic environment, various plant species, including mosses and grasses, have managed to take root and thrive on the crater slopes.

In addition to the fun facts about Kerid Crater, the geography and geology of Kerid Crater showcase the remarkable volcanic landscapes of Iceland, with its cone-shaped crater, red volcanic walls, mineral-rich lake, and the interplay of colors and natural elements. It is a captivating example of the geological processes that have shaped the unique beauty of the country.

About Kerid Crater – Legends

In addition to the fun facts about Kerid Crater, there are a few legends and stories associated with Kerid Crater.

The Seal Queen: According to Icelandic folklore, a mythical creature known as the Seal Queen is said to reside in the lake of Kerid Crater. Legends tell of a beautiful seal that can transform into a human woman. It is believed that she lives in the depths of the lake and occasionally emerges from the water, bringing good fortune to those who encounter her.
The Treasure Chest: Another legend surrounding Kerid Crater involves a hidden treasure chest buried within the crater. According to the story, a group of outlaws once hid their stolen loot in the crater, intending to retrieve it later. However, before they could return, the volcanic eruption occurred, trapping the treasure deep within the crater. Some tales say that the treasure is still buried within Kerid, waiting to be discovered by adventurous souls.

These legends add an element of mystery and enchantment to Kerid Crater, sparking the imagination and curiosity of those who visit. While they may be purely mythical, they contribute to the folklore and storytelling traditions of Iceland.

We hope you enjoyed these fun facts about Kerid Crater!