Kangerlussuaq: Trails, History and Winter Experiences

Kangerlussuaq is the starting point of the Arctic Circle Trail and also offers seasonal activities and a glimpse into the history of the town. When planning your trip, it helps to consider the different time commitments: the long-distance trail usually takes several days, while nearby destinations such as Lake Ferguson and Russell Glacier offer different experiences. Point 660 is a destination for trips to the Greenland Ice Sheet.

Getting around and arriving

Kangerlussuaq extends along both sides of the runway. Walking from one side of town to the other can therefore take a while. Bear this layout in mind when planning journeys within Kangerlussuaq. A bus stop is located just outside the airport, opposite the souvenir shops. The bus passes each stop approximately every 30 minutes. Check the latest timetable details when planning to take the bus.

The Arctic Circle Trail: a multi-day hike

Kangerlussuaq is the starting point of the 160-kilometre Arctic Circle Trail, which runs through natural terrain between Kangerlussuaq and Sisimiut. The route usually takes eight to ten days. The trail is suitable only for experienced long-distance hikers with strong navigation skills. Plan it as a multi-day trek, rather than a short excursion during a stay in town.

There are eight basic huts at various points along the trail. They generally provide sleeping space for four to six people; some have toilets. Facilities therefore vary from one hut to another. Check the latest trail conditions before setting out.

Seasonal activities and nearby destinations

Kayaking is popular on Lake Ferguson in summer, while cross-country skiing is popular in winter. The lake is about five kilometres farther along the road from the other side of town. The change of season brings different activities here, but does not imply a particular tour duration.

At nearby Russell Glacier, ice flows down from a high plateau. You can often see ice calving and falling into the river below. Point 660, in turn, is a destination for trips to the Greenland Ice Sheet. These places offer different experiences: lake activities, glacier scenery and a trip to the ice sheet.

You can go dog sledding in Kangerlussuaq in winter and spring. February, March and April are considered the best months for it. Weather and snow conditions vary, so it is worth considering the conditions during your planned travel dates.

The Kangerlussuaq Museum and the history of the town

The Kangerlussuaq Museum at the airport explores Kangerlussuaq’s history as an American base and its subsequent development into an important transport hub for Greenland. Its scope ranges from the first Inuit summer camps to the present day. The museum also covers the history of aviation in Greenland before, during and after the Second World War. It therefore focuses on both the development of the town and Greenland’s aviation history. If you are planning a visit, check the latest visitor information in advance.

Discover more destinations: Maniitsoq, Uummannaq, Aasiaat, Nuuk, Sisimiut.

Back to the main travel overview: Qeqqata Municipality.