The best walks and hikes in the Greenland Mountains

The Greenland Mountains offer a diverse range of landscapes. You'll encounter vast, untamed wilderness, dramatic fjords, and calving glaciers, especially in areas like the Ilulissat Icefjord. The region also features rugged coastlines, open backcountry with low-lying tundra, and higher peaks. South Greenland provides a contrast with lush green hills and historical Viking sites, while Disko Island boasts unique volcanic formations and hot springs.

Yes, the Greenland Mountains offer options for various ability levels. There are 9 easy routes available. For example, the Sisimiut – Small Storehouses Ruins loop from Sisimiut is an easy 2.5-mile (4.0 km) trail that explores historical sites and can be completed in about an hour. Another easy option is the Whale Jawbone Arch, Nuuk – Sisimiut Town Center loop from Sisimiut.

Hikers can discover a variety of natural features and attractions. In the Nuuk area, you can enjoy views of the Godthåbsfjord and iconic peaks like Lille Malene. The Palasip Qaqqaa Waterfall – Palasip Qaqqaa Summit loop from Sisimiut offers challenging ascents to a summit with panoramic views. You can also find several beautiful lakes, such as Fjell between Nerumaq and Innajuattoq, and unique geological formations like the basalt columns on Disko Island.

Greenland's trails often lead to fascinating historical and cultural sites. In Nuuk, you can explore urban landmarks and coastal scenery on routes like the Nuuk City Center and Landmarks – Coastal Boardwalk in Nuuk loop from University of Greenland, which passes by the Museum and Blue Church. The Sisimiut – Small Storehouses Ruins loop from Sisimiut takes you through historical sites in Sisimiut. South Greenland is particularly rich in Viking ruins and modern Greenlandic agriculture.

Yes, for experienced hikers seeking a challenge, Greenland offers several difficult routes, including multi-day treks. The Palasip Qaqqaa Waterfall – Palasip Qaqqaa Summit loop from Sisimiut is a difficult 9.9-mile (15.9 km) route with significant elevation gain. The Arctic Circle Trail, a 160-kilometer route between Kangerlussuaq and Sisimiut, is Greenland's best-marked long-distance trail, typically taking seven to ten days to complete.

The best time for hiking in Greenland is generally during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is milder, and the days are long. This period offers the most accessible conditions for exploring the diverse terrains, from coastal paths to mountain peaks. Outside of these months, conditions can be much more challenging due to snow, ice, and colder temperatures.

The trails in the Greenland Mountains are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 50 reviews. Hikers often praise the region's vast, untamed wilderness, the dramatic landscapes, and the unique natural features like icefjords and glaciers. Many appreciate the sense of solitude and connection with nature that the open backcountry provides.

While many trails are freely accessible, certain activities and areas may require permits or specialized guidance. Glacier hiking, for instance, requires specialized equipment and guides due to safety considerations. If you plan to venture far onto the Greenland Ice Sheet, permits are typically required. It's always advisable to check with local authorities or tour operators for specific permit requirements for your intended route, especially for remote or sensitive areas.

Accessibility varies significantly across Greenland. In larger towns like Nuuk and Sisimiut, some trailheads are reachable by local public transport or are within walking distance from urban centers. For more remote trails, especially those in the vast backcountry, access often involves local transfers, boats, or even small aircraft. Parking availability at trailheads can be limited outside of main settlements, so planning transport in advance is crucial.

Yes, you can encounter waterfalls on some routes. The Palasip Qaqqaa Waterfall – Palasip Qaqqaa Summit loop from Sisimiut is specifically named for its waterfall feature, offering a scenic highlight during the challenging ascent to the summit. This route provides an opportunity to experience one of Greenland's natural water features.

Yes, several circular routes are available, allowing you to start and end your hike in the same location. Examples include the Palasip Qaqqaa Waterfall – Palasip Qaqqaa Summit loop from Sisimiut, a difficult 9.9-mile (15.9 km) loop, and the moderate View of Lake in Greenland – Lake Overlooking Nuuk loop from Nuuk Airport. These loops offer convenient ways to explore the diverse landscapes.