Trekking in Greenland: The Arctic Circle Trail (Cicerone Guides)

Greenland is a harsh environment, largely covered in ice, but it is also a fascinating place to explore, especially on foot in remote places, and in the summer months it can be surprisingly easy. A great way to do it is by tackling the Arctic Circle Trail a splendid trekking route that fits neatly into one of the largest ice-free areas of West Greenland, 40-50km (25-30 miles) north of the Arctic Circle.

Only around 300 people walk the trail every year, but they come from all over Europe and North America. Access to the trail is easy and you can begin directly from the international airport at Kangerlussuaq and fly home from Sisimiut at the end. Greenland has the reputation of being expensive but there is no fee for walking the Arctic Circle Trail and the basic huts and canoes available for crossing the lakes along the way are free, too.

• complete route description, including nearby mountain trails and optional extension to the ice cap
• illustrated on Harveys trekking maps throughout
• non-technical, graded trail accessible to well-prepared backpackers