This river is the discharge of Lake Sandvatn, which collects a few brooks from the higher lying areas behind it. The upper part of the river cascades through a canyon and the lower course runs through inhabited landscapes in the lowlands to the confluence with the Lagarfljot river.

The lower part is easily accessible and the catch consists mainly of char and brown trout (up to 5 pounders). During the latter part of summer Sea Trout enters the river as well. The distance from the capital is about 715 km and 6-8 km from Egilsstadir.