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
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