Chaparral High School Returns to Iceland — Geology & Northern Lights

This October, GeoCamp Iceland welcomed back students and teachers from Chaparral High School, Colorado, for their second educational journey to Iceland. After their first summer visit in June 2024, the group returned to experience the country in a new season — with autumn colours, crisp air, and the chance to see the northern lights dancing over volcanic landscapes.

The 2025 program took the group on a field-based learning journey across Iceland, combining Earth science, sustainability, and culture.

A Journey Through Fire and Ice

The trip began on the Reykjanes Peninsula, exploring the dramatic volcanic landscape within the Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark. Students visited eruption sites near Grindavík, where they learned about the recent volcanic activity that has reshaped the area, and how Iceland’s scientists monitor and respond to these natural events.
From there, the group continued through Hellisheiði to study geothermal energy production, before standing between continents at Þingvellir National Park and relaxing in the natural warmth of the Secret Lagoon.

Glaciers, Waterfalls, and the Power of Nature

Day three brought the group to the south coast, where students hiked on Sólheimajökull glacier, explored Reynisfjara’s black sand beach, and visited some of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. Each stop connected classroom theory with real-world examples of geology, erosion, and energy transfer.

The journey then continued north to Mývatn, a region defined by geothermal activity and volcanic formations. After a long day’s drive, students enjoyed a well-deserved soak in the Jarðböðin geothermal pools. The following days were spent exploring Dettifoss, Ásbyrgi, and Dimmuborgir, where unique geological formations sparked curiosity and conversation — all beneath the shimmering glow of the aurora borealis.

Science in Action

The program also included visits to Goðafoss waterfall, a whale watching tour from Húsavík, and an introduction to Iceland’s renewable energy systems. On the way back south, the group stopped at Hraunfossar before returning to Reykjavík for their final night, ending the week back in Reykjanes with reflections on what they had learned and experienced.

Throughout the program, the Chaparral group explored how Iceland’s landscapes tell the story of a dynamic Earth — from tectonic rifts and glaciers to geothermal energy and sustainable living. The GeoCamp Iceland team guided the group through every stage of this immersive experience, connecting outdoor learning with science, sustainability, and culture.

From the edge of erupting volcanoes to the quiet glow of the northern lights, the journey captured what GeoCamp Iceland is all about: turning the land itself into a classroom.