VOLCANIC
SPRINGS

Gunnuhver, Power Plant Basin Group

Looking northwest from Kísilhóll a steaming plain in front of the collecting basin (Gráa Lónið, gray lagoon) comes into view. The plain called Hveravellir is home of several fumaroles and mud pots, but there is no direct access from Kísilhóll.

Kísilhóll Gunnuhver Iceland
View from Kísilhóll towards Power Plant Basin

To observe the features of the Power Plant Basin Group at closer range, follow the unpaved road west of the thermal area until you reach a branch in direction of the power plant basin. In contrast to the highly dangerous area between the thermal features, the rim of the basin is a safe observation point. Silica rich water, dicharged from the geothermal power plant, causes its muddy blue color.

Power Plant Basin Lagoon Kísilhóll Gunnuhver Iceland
View from Power Plant Basin towards Kísilhóll

The area in front of the power plant basin comprises a fascinating collection of mud pots. Some of them are very active spouters.

Mud Pot Gunnuhver Iceland
Examples of mud pots in the Power Plant Basin Group

Mud Pot Gunnuhver Iceland
Mud pot Pow 2 stands out due to its different red color

Mud Pot Gunnuhver Iceland
Pow 3 shows the coalescence of two smaller mud pots to form a bigger one

Mud Pot Gunnuhver Iceland
Pow 4 is a powerful perpetual spouter, ejecting up to 1,5 m (5 feet) high mud bursts

Mud Pot Gunnuhver Iceland
Mudpot Pow 4

Mud Pot Gunnuhver Iceland
Pow 5 is one of the largest mud pots in the Power Plant Basin Group

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