Arctic Circle Trail
Qeqqata Kommunia
The Arctic Circle Trail is a 165-kilometre hiking route in Greenland that stretches from the inland settlement of Kangerlussuaq to the coastal town of Sisimiut. Entirely located north of the Arctic Circle, the trail traverses diverse terrain including tundra, lakes, rivers, and boggy areas, with a maximum elevation of 450 metres. It skirts the edge of the Greenland ice cap and passes through parts of the UNESCO-listed Aasivissuit – Nipisat Inuit Hunting Ground between Ice and Sea. Established officially in 1998, the trail is sparsely marked by cairns and requires hikers to be self-sufficient, as there are no resupply points along the way. Ten primitive huts offer basic shelter for trekkers. The trail is most accessible during the snow-free summer months, while spring, fall, and winter require skis, snowmobiles, or dog sleds. Despite its remoteness and challenges such as river crossings and mosquitoes, it remains Greenland's most renowned hiking path, attracting fewer than 1,500 hikers per season. No permits are required to hike the trail, which typically takes 7 to 10 days to complete.
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Astuce: The best time to hike the Arctic Circle Trail is during the summer months when the route is largely snow-free. Hikers should prepare to be fully self-supported with food and gear, as there are no resupply points along the trail. Booking or checking availability of the 10 primitive huts in advance is advisable. Be prepared for river crossings and an abundance of mosquitoes in early summer. No permits are needed, but hikers should plan for remote conditions and potential emergency evacuations due to tundra fires.
Faits intéressants
- •The trail covers parts of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Aasivissuit – Nipisat: Inuit Hunting Ground between Ice and Sea.
- •The maximum altitude reached on the trail is 450 metres (1,480 feet).
- •The fastest known completion time of the trail is just under two days, while most hikers take 7 to 10 days.
- •Approximately 80% of Greenland is covered by ice sheets, but the trail avoids these by running from the ice edge to the coast.
- •There are 10 primitive huts along the trail providing shelter in this remote environment.
Histoire
The Arctic Circle Trail was officially established in 1998 as a designated hiking route connecting Kangerlussuaq and Sisimiut.
It follows traditional Inuit hunting grounds recognized today as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting the cultural and natural significance of the region.
Over the years, the trail has gained recognition as Greenland's most popular hiking route, despite its remote and challenging environment.
Environmental factors such as tundra fires have occasionally impacted the trail, necessitating evacuations.
The route remains unchanged in its general course since establishment, preserving the wilderness experience it offers.
Guide du lieu
Kangerlussuaq Trailhead
Starting point of the Arctic Circle Trail located near the settlement of Kangerlussuaq, featuring access to the Greenland ice cap edge and initial gravel road section of the trail.
Primitive Huts Along the Trail
Ten basic huts spaced along the trail offer shelter to hikers in this remote Arctic environment, providing essential refuge but minimal amenities.
Sisimiut Trail End
The trail concludes at Sisimiut, the second-largest town in Greenland, located on the western coast with access to coastal landscapes and cultural sites.
