Narsaq to Qassiarsuk Viking Heritage Circuit
Viking routes through Greenland's sheep country
This gnarly coastal route traces the footsteps of Erik the Red through South Greenland’s sheep farming country, connecting the modern town of Narsaq with Qassiarsuk where the Vikings first landed. The 45-kilometer track follows ancient hunting paths and modern sheep trails across rolling tundra, fording several unnamed creeks and navigating around Tunulliarfik Fjord’s rocky shoreline. Key waypoints include the Brattahlid ruins where Leif Erikson launched his North American expeditions and the active sheep farms that still dot this surprisingly green landscape.
Moderate difficulty requires high-clearance 4WD for creek crossings and loose rock sections, though nothing too technical. Summer months offer the best conditions when streams are fordable and the sheep trails are most defined. No permits needed, but respect private sheep farms and archaeological sites. Dispersed camping available on public land between settlements, with stunning views across Eriksfjord toward the inland ice. This is living history — the same route Norse settlers used 1000 years ago.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | Historic, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 28 mi / 45 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 800 ft |
| Best season | June-September |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Narsaq, Greenland |
| Land manager | Government of Greenland |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
What's the minimum rig needed — can a stock Defender or 4Runner handle this?
High-clearance 4WD is the minimum, non-negotiable. Stock Defenders and 4Runners with decent all-terrain tires can manage, but expect rocky coastal terrain, soft ground, and uneven farm tracks — a lift helps but isn't required.
Is this trail accessible outside of June–September?
No. Snow, ice, and frozen ground make the route impassable October through May. Even early June and late September can throw serious weather at you — South Greenland is not forgiving outside peak summer.
Do you need permits to drive and camp this route?
No vehicle permit is currently required, but you're passing through active sheep farming land managed under Greenlandic government oversight — respect gates, livestock, and land boundaries. Dispersed camping is allowed but leave no trace rules apply hard here.
What's the hardest section and what makes it difficult?
The water crossings are the crux — depths and currents vary significantly with snowmelt and rainfall, and there are no bridges on the technical sections. Approach each crossing on foot first; mid-route crossings after heavy rain have caught drivers off guard with faster-moving water than expected.
There's zero cell service — how far is the nearest fuel and resupply from the trailhead?
Narsaq is your last fuel and resupply stop before heading out — fill everything and carry extra. The nearest settlement mid-route is Qassiarsuk, which has no fuel station, so plan a full 2-day range from Narsaq and back with no top-up available.
Trail track
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