Harbour Bay Trail

Harbour Bay Trail

A short, easy, year-round hike near Sisimiut that is suitable for all abilities and mountain bikes.

Trail typeloop
Time2 – 4 hrs
Distance7.9 km
Altitude72 m
Physicaleasy
Technicaleasy

What you can expect on the trail

The Harbour Bay Trail is an easy loop hike, also designed for mountain bikes. It passes through “Akia,” the residential area of Sisimiut north of the bridge, and “dog town,” and offers amazing views of Sisimiut, the inlet, and an impressive waterfall. In August and early September, keep an eye out for berries and mushrooms that can be foraged.

The trail is wide, easy to follow, suitable for hikers of all abilities and bikers, and can be completed in either direction. It’s the perfect way to experience nature near Sisimiut for those who are less mobile or short on time.

Photo: Lisa Germany – Destination Arctic Circle

Trail Description

The easiest direction of travel starts at the bridge and follows the road towards Sisimiut’s newest suburb of Akia. At the end of the houses, it changes into a short ATV track, before changing once more into a wide, obvious trail over natural ground-material.

The trail follows the northern edge of the inlet towards the east and eventually arrives at an impressive waterfall. Rock-hop across the base of the waterfall and hike below a new hut, before climbing over a small hill on your way to the large river that drains from Sisimiut’s water supply. From here, the trail heads east to link up with the road that passes through dog town. 

Remember, do not approach adult Greenlandic sled dogs without their owner present.

But enjoy the antics of the puppies as you make your way back to the paved roads of Sisimiut. Then, choose your own adventure to wherever you want to head next. The route suggested here takes you along the southern shore of the bay past the marina – a part of Sisimiut you might not think to explore.

Overview map of the Harbour Bay hiking/biking trail near Sisimiut

Hover to zoom the image

Safety Information

  • There may be small areas where there is no cell phone coverage. 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. If the weather starts to turn, descend immediately.
  • Make sure you bring a full water bottle. You can refill your bottle from the rivers and streams. We also recommend you bring sunscreen, a sun hat, and a mosquito head-net.
  • Please minimize your impact on the environment. Follow existing roads and trails, don’t build or alter cairns, and take all your rubbish back to Sisimiut with you.
  • If you are hiking early or late in the season, be careful of sections of deep snow and slippery surfaces

Please make sure you are familiar with all our safety recommendations and the 7 Leave No Trace principles before you hike.