Kangerlussuaq to Sisimiut Arctic Circle Trail
Greenland's legendary Arctic wilderness crossing
The Arctic Circle Trail is Greenland’s premier overland adventure, running 165 kilometers from Kangerlussuaq’s airport to the coastal town of Sisimiut. This legendary route crosses raw tundra, ford dozens of unbridged streams, and navigates through landscapes that haven’t changed since the last ice age. Most tackle it as a multi-day hiking route, but hardy overlanders with the right setup can drive sections of it, particularly the eastern approach from Kangerlussuaq where old mining roads and supply tracks provide access to the trailhead at Kellyville.
This is no joke — you need serious Arctic preparation and a bulletproof vehicle setup. The western sections are hiking-only, but the eastern 40km offers challenging driving across rocky tundra with creek crossings and no margin for error. Best season is July through September when the worst ice has cleared. No permits required, but you’re on your own out here with zero cell service and weather that can turn deadly in hours. This is bucket-list territory for serious overlanders who want to say they drove in true Arctic wilderness.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Expert |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | Historic, Remote, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 102 mi / 165 km |
| Duration | 4-6 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1640 ft |
| Best season | July-September |
| Minimum vehicle | Heavily modified 4WD with Arctic gear |
| Nearest town | Kangerlussuaq, Greenland |
| Land manager | Government of Greenland |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| 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
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