UFO Trail
A long day hike (or comfortable overnight hike) to a unique backcountry hut overlooking the spectacular Kangerluarsuk Tulleq fjord north of Sisimiut.
| Trail type | return |
| Time | 8 – 10 hrs |
| Distance | 16.6 km |
| Altitude | 323 m |
| Physical | medium |
| Technical | medium |
What you can expect on the trail
It’s not often that you get to visit a UFO on a hiking trail! But we have one near Sisimiut.
The UFO is actually a (very echoey) backcountry hut perched on top of a steep descent overlooking Kangerluarsuk Tulleq fjord. The 180-degree view over the fjord and the mountains to the north make this a perfect place to overnight, and hikers can either camp or sleep inside the hut.
The hut is also a popular dogsledding destination during the winter, and often snowshoes are not required.
The trail is well-marked with mostly gentle grades. There are a few stream crossings, but all of them are fairly narrow and only one of them might be a little tricky early in the season or after a lot of 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 first rise, the trail follows the left-hand edge of the lake before continuing its climb towards the pass at the end of the valley. Make sure you look behind you as you climb for awesome views of the lakes!
At the top of the pass, look for the UFO perched on the ridge above a steep descent to the 1st Fjord. It is about another 2km to reach it through what can be quite boggy ground. Although the trail mostly disappears, follow the blue dots to remain as dry as possible.
Return to Sisimiut via the same route.
Hover to zoom the image
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.