Kangerlussuaq Ridge Trail
A panoramic day hike and an alternative to hiking the Port Road to Kellyville, featuring fantastic views of the airport and fjord
| Trail type | one-way |
| Time | 7 – 8 hrs |
| Distance | 18.9 km |
| Altitude | 330m |
| Physical | moderate – challenging |
| Technical | moderate |
What you can expect on the trail
Kangerlussuaq Ridge (known locally as “Kitchen Mountain”) rises steeply above town and forms a natural barrier to the north of Kangerlussuaq. For those energetic enough to climb to the top, there are incredible views over Kangerlussuaq and its airport, the Watson River valley, and a long way out into the “big fjord”.
The route can be made into a:
- relatively short half-day hike by climbing to the top, hiking along the obvious ridge until the blue markers stop, and returning the same way.
- single day-loop by descending to the Port Road mid-way along (see below).
Or it can be combined with the Ice Ridge Trail and/or the Arctic Circle Trail as an alternative to walking along the Port Road.
longer day loop by descending to the Port Road mid-way along (see below).
Hiking the ridge is far more challenging than walking along the road, with one major ascent and descent at either end. Although it is marked with the red half-sun painted on rocks (similar to the Arctic Circle Trail), these are “confidence markers” rather than “navigation markers”. You may not be able to spot the next one from the one you are at, and you should refer to your GPS device and/or maps if in doubt.
We recommend this route only for hikers that are experienced in navigating in the wilderness and have basic first aid skills. All hikers should carry a map and/or GPS device and a two-way communication device with you in case of an emergency.
Trail Description
The trail begins just to the east of Kangerlussuaq along the Ice Road. A frame for an old sign marks the start of a little-used ATV track that climbs very steeply to the top of the ridge. Just before you get to the top, the trail heads off to the west to avoid a bog and a stand of willow – it also gets you moving in the right direction. Keep an eye on your navigation as this sudden turn is not well marked. This is also the connection point with the Ice Ridge Trail coming from Russell Glacier.
Once you reach the top, follow the cairns along the ridge and then the markers as they continue towards some radio equipment above Kangerlussuaq. Do not interfere with this infrastructure. Cross between the lakes to the north and climb steeply up uncompacted terrain to finally arrive at the plateau. Navigate using your GPS/map and the markings along the edge of the plateau towards the west. There is no trail tread to follow.
The next section of trail is not too difficult and offers spectacular views over the airport and the end of the fjord. It’s a great place to sit for a while and watch the planes take off and land. You realise just how big the Greenland landscape is when you see how tiny these large man-made machines appear against it.
After a series of 3 lakes, the trail departs from the impressive view you’ve had until now and heads into more jumbled terrain.
If you wish to return to Kangerlussuaq at this point, follow the route that leads back to the Port Road here.
The trail then passes through open tundra and past several lakes before finally descending very steeply to some old oil tanks. The half-sun markings end here as the route simply follows the road down to the lake, and then hugs the shoreline of the lake until it reaches the road to Kellyville.
Hover to zoom the image
Safety Information
- There is no cell phone coverage on the trail. You should carry map and/or GPS and a two-way communication device with you in case of an emergency.
- Although the route is marked, you should have personal experience in backcountry navigation and basic first aid before attempting this trail.
- If this is part of a multi-day hike, carry good-quality camping gear that can stand up to bad weather, and be comfortable in setting it up and packing it down in bad conditions. We recommend you follow the packing list for the Arctic Circle Trail.
- Weather can change very quickly. Even on a sunny day, make sure you bring a wind- and waterproof jacket with you as a minimum.
- Make sure you bring snacks and a full water bottle. Refill from rivers and lakes. We also recommend you bring sunscreen, a sun hat, and a mosquito head-net.
- Please minimize your impact on the environment. Don’t build or alter cairns, leave establish trails and roads, or take shortcuts. Remember to take all your trash with you.
Please make sure you are familiar with all our safety recommendations and the 7 Leave No Trace principles before you hike.