Thule Air Base Perimeter Security Road
Military perimeter road at the top of the world
The 28-kilometer perimeter road around Thule Air Base (now Pituffik Space Base) traces the edge of America’s northernmost military installation, passing concrete bunkers, radar installations, and the abandoned Inuit settlement of Dundas Village. Originally built during the Cold War for base security patrols, the graded gravel road offers stark views across North Star Bay toward the massive Humboldt Glacier. The eastern section runs directly along Baffin Bay’s shore, where polar bear encounters are common during ice-free months.
Access requires special military authorization through the Danish Defence Command – this isn’t a casual weekend run. The route is moderate difficulty but weather conditions can deteriorate rapidly, with whiteout conditions possible year-round. Best driven during the brief Arctic summer from July to August in any stock 4WD vehicle. The historical significance and Arctic wildlife viewing make this one of Greenland’s most unique but restricted driving experiences.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Gravel |
| Features | High Altitude, Historic, Remote |
| Length (miles) | 17.4 mi / 28 km |
| Duration | Full day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1150 ft |
| Best season | July-August |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD |
| Nearest town | Qaanaaq, Greenland |
| Land manager | U.S. Space Force / Danish Defence |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Cell service | Decent |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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