Kangerlussuaq Ridge Trail
An short and steep out-and-back that climbs through the Arctic vegetation directly above town to reveal a breathtaking panorama of the two river valleys that converge near Kangerlussuaq.
What you can expect on the trail
Kangerlussuaq’s shortest day hike is also one of its most beautiful.
It is a short but very steep trail that climbs through the Arctic vegetation directly above town to reveal a breathtaking panorama of the two river valleys that converge near Kangerlussuaq. It feels as if you can see forever, with Sugarloaf Mountain and the vast Greenlandic Ice Sheet clearly visible in the distance.
In the other direction, several lakes nestle in amongst the low-lying vegetation of the Arctic tundra. This landscape is characteristic of the extensive hunting grounds that make up the UNESCO world heritage listed Aasivisuit-Nipisat area, which lies a little further to the north.
For the most part, the trail is obvious and clearly marked. As you hike, keep an eye out for the Labrador Tea plant and, in August/September, the wild arctic blueberries that line the trail. Feel free to collect some to keep your energy up or to add to your breakfast the next morning.
Trail Description
The trail begins at the start of the road out to the Ice Sheet. Follow it for about 400m until you reach the sign for the Kangerlussuaq Ridge Hike trail.
Follow the blue markers up the hill until you reach an ATV track. Make sure you keep looking behind you for great views over Kangerlussuaq! It is a different perspective of the town from what you see on the Black Ridge Hike.
Turn left onto the track and walk along it for about 400m until you see a blue marker set a little way off to the right. Leave the ATV track here and follow the markers through a less vegetated area to the top of the ridge.
The panorama from here is truly incredible.
Explore along the ridge and return via the same route.
Be very careful if it has rained recently. The ATV section of trail in particular can be extremely slippery and is very steep.
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Safety Information
- There may be no cell phone coverage on parts of the trail. Ideally, you should do this hike with another person, but at least let someone know your plans and when you expect to return.
- 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. There is not much water along this trail. 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 rubbish back to Kangerlussuaq with you.
Please make sure you are familiar with all our safety recommendations and the 7 Leave No Trace principles before you hike.