Niuiarfiup Trail
A relaxed day hike to a peaceful lake at the end of a beautiful valley. A perfect spot for a picnic.
Photo: Lisa Germany – Destination Arctic Circle 
Photo: Lisa Germany – Destination Arctic Circle 
Photo: Lisa Germany – Destination Arctic Circle 
Photo: Lisa Germany – Destination Arctic Circle 
Photo: Lisa Germany – Destination Arctic Circle 
Photo: Lisa Germany – Destination Arctic Circle 
Photo: Lisa Germany – Destination Arctic Circle 
Photo: Lisa Germany – Destination Arctic Circle
| Trail type | return |
| Time | 3 – 4 hrs |
| Distance | 8.6 km |
| Altitude | 157 m |
| Physical | moderate |
| Technical | easy |
What you can expect on the trail
If you don’t have the time or energy to hike all the way to the UFO, the first section of the trail makes a beautiful day hike in its own right.
Niuiarfiup is a peaceful lake at the end of the first valley on the way to the UFO. The trail passes several tall waterfalls and offers beautiful views across the valley before reaching the lake, which is also a popular local picnic spot.
In winter, you’ll often see dogsleds crossing the frozen lake on their way to the UFO. Snowshoes are usually not necessary for the hike to the lake at this time of year.
The trail is well marked and mostly follows gentle grades. There are a few stream crossings, but all are fairly narrow. One can be a little tricky early in the season or after heavy rain. During winter, ignore the instructions below and simply follow the compacted dogsled route.
Trail Description
The trail begins 3km from the start of dog town. There is a large cairn to the left of the road as it curves around towards the shooting range, and the first of the markers (blue dots) heading off to the right.
The first part of the trail stays high and essentially follows the left-hand side of the valley. There is a clear, foot-width trail to follow for the majority of it with wonderful views of the valley, lakes, waterfalls, and the surrounding mountains. There are a few narrow rivers to rock-hop across with the trail indicating the most likely crossing point. However, you may need to search a little up or downstream if the water is unusually high. Be careful as wet rocks tend to be very slippery!
At the top of the moderate rise, you’ll reach Niuiarfiup. A well-used picnic area sits beside the lake, making it a great spot to stop for lunch. It’s also worth continuing along the shore to the far end of the lake, an easy walk with more views to enjoy.
Return to Sisimiut via the same route.
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Other resources
Safety Information
- There is 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. If the weather starts to turn, descend immediately.
- Make sure you bring a full water bottle. You can refill your bottle from the river (the water is clean and safe to drink). 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.