Disco Island Qullissat Coal Mine Heritage Road
Coal mining ghost town on Arctic island
The Qullissat coal mine operated from 1924-1972, making it Greenland’s most significant industrial settlement until closure left behind a complete ghost town. This 34-kilometer route follows the original supply road from Godhavn (Qeqertarsuaq) across Disko Island’s basalt plateau, climbing through Arctic willow thickets and past abandoned equipment before descending to the haunting ruins overlooking Disco Bay.
Easy to moderate difficulty suitable for stock high-clearance vehicles on mostly gravel surface with some rocky sections. Best accessed June through October when ferry service connects to mainland. No permits required but respect the protected archaeological site. Bring camping gear – the old mining barracks foundations make atmospheric (if windswept) campsites. This route offers unique industrial archaeology, spectacular views of Ilulissat Icefjord, and a tangible connection to Greenland’s mining heritage.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Easy |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Gravel |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 21 mi / 34 km |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1968 ft |
| Best season | June-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Qeqertarsuaq, Greenland |
| Land manager | Government of Greenland |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock high-clearance vehicle handle this trail, or do I need a lifted rig?
A stock high-clearance vehicle like a Land Cruiser 80 or Defender is sufficient for this gravel road. No aggressive modifications needed, but low-range gearing helps on the volcanic plateau sections and around water crossings.
When is the road actually passable — and what's the window before snow shuts it down?
June through October is your window. Snow can linger into early June and return fast in October, so mid-July through September is the sweet spot for stable conditions on Disko Island's plateau.
Are there any permits or fees required to drive to Qullissat?
No formal permit or fee is currently required to drive the route. Qullissat is an abandoned settlement under Government of Greenland oversight — respect the ruins and pack out everything you bring in.
What's the hardest section of the trail and what makes it sketchy?
The water crossings on the plateau are the main variable — depth and current shift with snowmelt and rain. On an 'Easy' rated trail this isn't a recovery situation, but scout crossings on foot first rather than assuming conditions match what you read online.
Is there any place to resupply fuel or water near the trailhead or along the route?
No fuel or resupply exists along the 21-mile route or in Qullissat — it's a ghost town. Top off in Qeqertarsuaq before you leave and carry extra fuel; the nearest help is back where you started. Water crossings confirm surface water exists, but filter before drinking.
Trail track
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