The Arctic Circle Trail | Hiking Greenland's 100-Mile Trail

The air is crisp and clean, carrying the subtle scent of crowberries and Arctic thyme. 

This is the Arctic Circle Trail (ACT) – a 160-kilometre (100-mile) journey through one of Earth's last true wilderness areas.

Understanding the Arctic Circle Trail

The Arctic Circle Trail cuts a pristine path through western Greenland's coastal mountain range, connecting the inland settlement of Kangerlussuaq with the coastal town of Sisimiut. 

You'll walk through a landscape that tells the story of Earth's ice ages – broad U-shaped valleys, countless lakes, and worn granite hills that have witnessed the advance and retreat of glaciers over millennia.

The trail's 160 kilometres typically take 8-9 days to complete, though some hikers spend up to 12 days to fully immerse themselves in the Arctic wilderness. With a total elevation gain of about 2,350 metres spread across its length, the trail presents a steady but manageable challenge. 

Daily distances average 18–20 kilometres, allowing time to soak in the surroundings and adapt to the unique Arctic environment.

The path leads you through distinct sections, each with its own character. From Kangerlussuaq, you'll traverse the tundra-covered hills of the inland, pass by countless lakes in the middle section, and finally encounter the more mountainous terrain near Sisimiut. 

Nine basic huts dot the trail, offering emergency shelter and creating natural stopping points for your journey.

Why hike the Arctic Circle Trail?

Pristine landscape

The ACT takes you through a world that remains largely as it has been for thousands of years. Each day brings new vistas of untouched wilderness. 

Near Kangerlussuaq, you'll witness the massive Russell Glacier, where 60-metre ice walls create an otherworldly backdrop. As you progress westward, the landscape transforms from inland tundra to coastal mountains.

In summer, the tundra comes alive with tiny Arctic flowers – look for purple mountain harebells, white Arctic cotton, and yellow Arctic poppies pushing through the rocky soil. By August, the ground becomes dotted with edible berries – crowberries, blueberries, and cloudberries provide trail snacks and attract local wildlife.

The countless lakes along the trail range from small tarns to the massive Lake Amitsorsuaq, stretching 23 kilometres along your path. Each offers crystal-clear waters reflecting the sky and surrounding hills, creating perfect mirrors in the still morning air.

Pure solitude

Unlike many of the world's popular trails, the ACT offers genuine solitude. Outside peak season, you might walk for days without seeing another person. This solitude creates space for a deeper connection with the landscape – a chance to experience the Arctic's subtle rhythms and vast silence.

The quiet is profound, broken only by natural sounds: the whisper of wind through Arctic willow, the call of a passing raven, or the distant roar of water in glacial streams. At night, this silence deepens, occasionally accompanied by the ethereal dance of the Northern Lights during late summer and early autumn.

Remote nature

The trail's remoteness sets it apart from other long-distance hikes. Between Kangerlussuaq and Sisimiut, you'll find no settlements, no roads, and no permanent infrastructure beyond the basic trail huts. This lack of development creates a unique opportunity to experience true wilderness and test your self-sufficiency.

The huts along the trail serve as welcome waypoints, each with its own character. From the larger Canoe Center, complete with solar charging, to tiny shelters like Innajuattoq II (the ‘Lake House’), perched dramatically above a pristine lake, each offers a chance to rest and perhaps share stories with fellow hikers.

Getting to the ACT

The journey to the Arctic Circle Trail is an adventure in itself and it starts with a journey to Greenland. Most hikers arrive via Kangerlussuaq Airport, Greenland's main international gateway. Direct flights operate from Copenhagen year-round and from Reykjavik during summer months. 

The airport's unique history as a former U.S. military base adds an interesting layer to your arrival – you'll land on one of Greenland's longest runways, originally built to accommodate Cold War military aircraft.

Once in Kangerlussuaq, you'll find a small settlement of about 500 people nestled between the Greenland ice sheet and the start of the trail. Take time to acclimate and organise your supplies.

After completing the trail in Sisimiut, your options expand. Regular flights connect back to Kangerlussuaq, or you might continue your Arctic adventure. Consider heading north to Ilulissat. 

For those seeking to explore more of Greenland's remote wilderness, Secret Atlas's Expedition Micro Cruises to East Greenland provide an ideal complement to your hiking experience.

Best seasons to hike the Arctic Circle Trail in Greenland

Each hiking season on the ACT offers distinct experiences and challenges:

Late June–uly: The midnight sun creates endless days, with temperatures reaching up to 17°C (63°F). Arctic flowers carpet the tundra, and wildlife activity peaks. Stream crossings can be challenging due to snowmelt, and mosquitoes reach their highest numbers. Pack a head net and insect repellent for this period.

August: Perfect hiking conditions emerge as temperatures moderate and insect numbers decline. Berries ripen across the tundra, providing trail snacks and attracting wildlife. Nights grow dark enough to spot the first Northern Lights, while days remain long enough for comfortable hiking.

Early-mid September: Fall colours transform the tundra into a rich tapestry of reds and golds. Temperatures drop to near freezing at night, but clear days offer stellar visibility. Northern Lights displays intensify, though you'll need to prepare for possible early snow and stronger winds.

Essential gear and preparation

Your gear choices can make or break your ACT experience. Here's what you'll need:

Clothing:

• Quality layering system (base, mid, and outer layers)

• Waterproof jacket and pants

• Warm hat and gloves

• Sturdy, water-resistant hiking boots

• Gaiters for boggy sections

Camping Equipment:

• 3-season tent with good wind resistance

• Sleeping bag rated to at least -5°C (23°F)

• Sleeping pad with good R-value

• Lightweight stove and fuel

• Water filtration system

Navigation and Safety:

• GPS device with loaded tracks

• Physical maps and compass

• Satellite communication device

• First aid kit

• Head net for mosquito season

Safety and survival: Understanding the Arctic environment

Wildlife

The ACT offers chances to observe Greenland's hardy wildlife in their natural habitat. Muskoxen often graze near the eastern sections, particularly around Kangerlussuaq. These prehistoric-looking creatures can weigh up to 400kg – keep a respectful distance and never approach them.

Reindeer roam the entire trail area, sometimes in small herds. Arctic foxes might visit your camp, especially near the huts. The bird life is diverse: look for white-tailed eagles soaring overhead, ptarmigan among the rocks, and various waterfowl on the lakes.

While polar bears are extremely rare along the ACT during hiking season, basic wildlife safety remains essential. Store food securely, keep a clean camp, and maintain awareness of your surroundings.

Weather hazards

Arctic weather demands respect and preparation. Conditions can change rapidly, with several key challenges:

Temperature fluctuations: Even in summer, temperatures can swing from above 20°C (68°F) to near freezing within hours. Wind chill can make these changes feel more extreme.

Wind: Strong winds can arise suddenly, particularly on exposed ridges. Your tent needs proper staking, and you should be prepared to navigate in low visibility conditions.

Rain and fog: Wet weather can last for days, making river crossings more challenging and reducing visibility. Good waterproof gear and navigation skills are essential.

Survival tips

Self-sufficiency forms the core of ACT safety:

• Always carry emergency shelter and extra food

• Know multiple ways to start a fire in wet conditions

• Keep one set of clothing dry for sleeping

• Learn to read weather patterns

• Practice navigation skills before your trip

• Test all gear thoroughly before departing

What to do before and after the hike

Before your trek

Make the most of your time in Kangerlussuaq by visiting the impressive Russell Glacier. Located 37 kilometres from town, this accessible ice wall rises 60 metres high, offering a dramatic preview of Greenland's ice sheet. 

You can arrange day tours or, for a unique start to your ACT experience, walk there independently and camp nearby before beginning the main trail.

The Kangerlussuaq Museum, housed in an old U.S. military building, provides fascinating insights into the area's history as a strategic Cold War airbase. Take time to learn about local culture and the region's transformation from military installation to Arctic tourism destination.

Check out our Greenland guide below for more ideas on what to do during your visit.

After completing the trail

Sisimiut, Greenland's second-largest town with 5,500 inhabitants, offers welcome comforts after your trek. The town blends traditional Greenlandic culture with modern amenities:

• Visit the local museum to learn about Inuit culture and the region's history

• Take a boat tour to spot whales in the nearby fjords

• Try traditional Greenlandic cuisine at local restaurants

• Watch skilled craftspeople work with traditional materials at the arts center

• Hike the dramatic Nasaasaaq mountain overlooking the town

Consider extending your Greenland adventure with Secret Atlas's Expedition Micro Cruises to East Greenland. Our intimate 12-passenger vessels allow you to explore remote fjords and isolated settlements while maintaining the connection with nature you've discovered on the trail.

East Greenland offers a different face of this massive island:

• Navigate through ice-filled fjords

• Visit the remote settlement of Ittoqqortoormiit

• Witness massive glaciers calving into the sea

• Spot arctic wildlife including seals, whales, and possibly polar bears

• Experience traditional hunting culture in isolated communities

Frequently asked questions about the ACT

How long does it take to do the Arctic Circle Trail?

The journey typically takes 8-9 days for most hikers, allowing you to maintain a comfortable pace of 18–20 kilometres daily while having time to soak in the Arctic environment. 

Your actual timing will vary based on several factors – your fitness level and hiking experience play a role, as do weather conditions and how much time you spend photographing and exploring. 

Some hikers complete the trail in as few as 6 days, while others stretch it to 12 days to fully immerse themselves in the experience.

How hard is the Arctic Circle Trail?

When it comes to difficulty, the ACT presents an interesting balance. While you won't encounter technical climbing or scrambling, the trail tests your endurance and self-sufficiency in other ways. You'll need to carry all your supplies – typically 10-14 days worth – and navigate through remote terrain. 

Stream crossings can be challenging, especially after rain, and some trail sections become quite boggy. The limited rescue options mean you'll need to be self-reliant. What matters most isn't technical hiking ability but rather good preparation, prior multi-day hiking experience, and reasonable physical fitness.

Are there polar bears on the Arctic Circle Trail?

You'll be glad to know that while these magnificent creatures occasionally appear near Sisimiut during winter months, summer encounters along the ACT are extremely rare. The trail lies outside their usual range, and you're much more likely to spot reindeer or muskoxen. 

That said, it's still important to follow basic wildlife safety practices. Keep your food stored securely, maintain a clean camp, and make some noise when moving through areas with limited visibility. 

These practices not only help with any wildlife encounters but also contribute to maintaining the trail's pristine environment for future hikers.

Final thoughts

The Arctic Circle Trail offers a rare opportunity to experience true wilderness in an increasingly connected world. Each day brings new perspectives of the Arctic landscape and chances to connect with nature in its purest form. The challenge of carrying everything you need through this remote terrain creates a profound sense of self-reliance and achievement.

Your journey doesn't have to end in Sisimiut. Secret Atlas's small ship Arctic cruises provide a perfect complement to your hiking adventure. Our expeditions carry the same spirit of exploration and connection with nature that you've experienced on the trail, while opening up even more remote corners of this remarkable country.

Whether you're planning your ACT adventure or looking to explore more of Greenland's wilderness, we're here to help. Contact Secret Atlas to learn about our Expedition Micro Cruise that can turn your Arctic Circle Trail journey into an even greater Greenland adventure.