Between Ice and Tundra: Backpacking the Arctic Circle Trail
A six-day, self-supported crossing of Greenland’s interior—expect long days, tundra silence, and glacier-light evenings.
The wind in Greenland does not whisper; it negotiates. On the first morning of the trail, clouds hang low like an old map, and the tundra breathes in long, salty drafts that smell faintly of distant ice. Your boots sink into peat and lichen, each step a soft negotiation with a landscape that’s stubborn and generous at once. Rivers braid across the valley, daring you to find the stones that will take you across without wetting your socks. Above, a ridge holds the weather like a hand—sometimes fair, sometimes sudden—reminding you that the Arctic is less an inert backdrop than an active companion.
Trail Wisdom
Pack Lightweight, Smart
Every extra gram matters on long days; prioritize high-calorie lightweight food and a compact shelter system.
Water Is Abundant but Untreated
Carry a reliable filter or chemical treatment—streams are plentiful but often stained with peat and require purification.
Leave No Trace
There are no maintained campsites—pack out all waste, avoid fires (wood is scarce), and camp on durable surfaces.
Start Early, Pace Daylight
Long daylight in summer tempts late starts; begin early to avoid river crossings in the afternoon and to take advantage of calmer weather.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •The basalt cliffs near Sisimiut—short detour for coastal views
- •Small inland lakes that catch evening light for ideal campsites
Wildlife
Arctic fox, Musk ox
Conservation Note
This area is fragile—so camp on durable ground, avoid open fires, and pack out all waste; local operators emphasize minimal-impact practices to protect tundra ecology.
The ACT follows traditional inland travel routes used by Inuit people; modern long-distance hiking on the route began in the late 20th century as adventure tourism grew in Greenland.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Migratory Birds, Quiet Trails, Snow-Capped Views
Challenges: Snowfields, Cold Nights, Limited Daylight earlier in season
Late spring still carries snow at higher passes; expect cold nights and some lingering snowfields—good for bird migration viewing but demanding for navigation.
summer
Best for: Longest Days, Accessible Trails, Fishing Opportunities
Challenges: Midges in some spots, Variable Rain, Boggy Terrain
Summer (June–August) is the optimal window—long daylight and milder temperatures make hiking easier, though rain and wet ground are common.
fall
Best for: Autumn Colors, Fewer Hikers, Crisp Air
Challenges: Shortening Days, Colder Nights, Early Snow
Early fall brings crisp light and quieter trails, but weather can turn quickly and nights grow cold—plan for thermal layers.
winter
Best for: Ski Touring (Expert Only), Northern Light Possibilities
Challenges: Extreme Cold, Deep Snow, Logistical Complexity
Winter travel is possible only for very experienced parties with ski equipment; logistics are challenging and daylight is limited.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Lightweight 3-season Backpacking TentEssential
Durable shelter that handles wind and wet ground without excess weight.
Water Filter or Purification TabletsEssential
Essential for safe drinking water from streams and lakes on trail.
Sturdy Waterproof Hiking BootsEssential
Support and traction for boggy ground, rock fields, and sudden wet crossings.
Insulating Layer & Rain ShellEssential
Layering system to handle cool nights and persistent summer rain.
Common Questions
Do I need prior backpacking experience?
Yes—this itinerary expects participants to be self-supported and comfortable with multi-day backpacking, route finding, and basic wilderness first aid.
Are there huts or resupplies on the trail?
No regular huts or official resupply points exist across the ACT—plan to carry food for the full trip or arrange pre-planned resupply through the operator.
When is the best time to go?
Mid-summer (July) offers the most stable weather and long daylight, though conditions can still be changeable.
Are permits required?
No formal permits are typically required for hiking the Arctic Circle Trail, but check with local tour operators and Greenland authorities if you plan organized events or large groups.
What wildlife might I see?
Expect migratory birds, Arctic foxes, ptarmigan, and occasionally musk ox; polar bears are rare this far inland and not a regular hazard on the ACT.
How remote is the trail and what about cell service?
The trail is remote; cell service is intermittent to non-existent across much of the route—plan for navigation without reliable phone coverage.
What to Pack
Water filter (safe drinking water), Lightweight tent (shelter in wind), Insulating layers (cold nights), Waterproof boots (bogs/rock fields)
Did You Know
The Arctic Circle Trail runs approximately 165 kilometers between Kangerlussuaq and Sisimiut and is one of the world’s few long-distance trails entirely within the Arctic Circle.
Quick Travel Tips
Fly into Kangerlussuaq for easiest access; arrange transport to/from Sisimiut in advance; bring cash for small-town purchases; expect little to no cell signal on trail.
Local Flavor
After the trail, reward yourself in Sisimiut: sample smoked Arctic char or reindeer stew at a local eatery, visit the Sisimiut Museum to learn about Greenlandic culture, and try a locally brewed beer in the harbor district where fishermen mend nets and tell stories of the sea.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport/trailhead: Kangerlussuaq Airport; Typical start/end towns: Kangerlussuaq and Sisimiut; Driving/shuttle time: ~2–4 hours depending on local transfers; Cell service: intermittent to none on much of the trail; Permits: none typically required but check with operator.
Sustainability Note
This route traverses fragile tundra—avoid fires, camp on durable surfaces, and pack out all trash; support local guides and operations that contribute to community stewardship.
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