Trekking in Greenland – The Arctic Circle Trail

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A comprehensive guidebook for hiking the Arctic Circle Trail, which crosses the largest ice-free area of West Greenland, 25-30 miles north of the Arctic Circle. At just over 100 miles long, and taking 7 to 10 days to complete, this splendid backpacking route runs from Kangerlussuaq to Sisimiut – both with airport access.

Cicerone says

At just over 100 miles long, and taking 7 to 10 days to complete, the Arctic Circle Trail crosses the largest ice-free patch of West Greenland. This splendid trekking route, lying 25-30 miles north of the Arctic Circle runs from Kangerlussuaq to Sisimiut (both of which have airport access). The trail traverses remote, empty, silent and stunningly scenic arctic tundra, and is mostly gently graded with just a few short, steep and rocky slopes. However, the landscape between the two towns of Kangerlussuaq and Sisimiut is extremely remote and those who choose to take on this route must be competely self-sufficient. The book includes plenty of practical information on what to take with you and when to go, as well as on safety, travel and accommodation. Fully illustrated with a variety of photographs and its route is highlighted on continuous trekking maps. The guide also includes an optional extension to the Greenlandic ice cap.

Our Verdict

For nearly 50 years Cicerone have been producing guidebooks on recognised treks, regions, areas and general tips for hikers.

We have used them countless times and they’ve always provided excellent insight and knowledge that you only get through experience, giving you the edge to make your trip a success and more enjoyable too.

If you’re a gram counter you can easily remove sections of the book to take with you making your own ultra-lightweight guidebook with only the essential sections that you require.

– Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear

Features

• Seasons: A summer walk, ideally from mid-June to mid-September, when the tundra is bursting with life; during the long winter, snow and ice, short days and bitter cold are the norm
• Centres: Start at Kangerlussuaq and finish at Sisimiut – vast empty landscapes inbetween
• Difficulty: Not particularly difficult, mostly gently graded, but with a few short, steep, rocky slopes but very remote; trekkers must be completely self-sufficient but basic huts are available at good intervals
• Must See: Trips to the ice cap; visiting an arctic desert; climbing Sugar Loaf; Kangerlussuaq; Tarajornitsut saline lakes; paddling the lake of Amitsorsuaq; beach at Kangerluatsiarsuaq; views from Iluliumanersuup Portornga; the valley below Nerumaq; the valley of Qerrortusup Majoriaa; Nasaasaaq; Sisimiut

Specifications

• Weight: 170g
• Published: 22 Feb 2019
• Edition: Second
• Number of pages: 136
• Size: 17.2 x 11.6 x 1.2cm

Table of Contents

Contents
Introduction

Geology
The ice cap
Wildlife
Plants and flowers
History
Culture
Travelling to Greenland
When to go
Accommodation
Toilets
Health and safety
Food, drink and fuel
Language
Money
Communications
Trekking in Greenland
River crossings
What to take
Waymarking and access
Maps
Emergencies
Using this guide
The Arctic Circle Trail
Kangerlussuaq
Preamble – ascent of Sugar Loaf
Optional Extension – ice cap to Kangerlussuaq
Day 1 Kangerlussuaq to Hundesø
Day 2 Hundesø to Katiffik
Day 3 Katiffik to Canoe Centre
Day 4 Canoe Centre to Ikkattooq
Day 5 Ikkattooq to Eqalugaarniarfik
Day 6 Eqalugaarniarfik to Innajuattoq
Day 7 Innajuattoq to Nerumaq
Day 8 Nerumaq to Kangerluarsuk Tulleq
Day 9 Kangerluarsuk Tulleq to Sisimiut
Sisimiut
Post-amble – Ascent of Nasaasaaq
Appendix A Route summary table
Appendix B Language notes and glossary
Appendix C Useful contacts