The best walks and hikes around Greenland

The main hiking season in Greenland is during the summer months, from June to September. During this period, the weather is milder, the days are long, and the tundra is often free of snow, revealing trails and a carpet of wildflowers. Autumn, particularly late August and September, offers vibrant colors and ripe berries, but with shorter days and cooler temperatures.

Yes, Greenland offers accessible hikes for various fitness levels. For a family-friendly and straightforward walk with incredible scenery, the Carnfunnock Country Park loop — Antrim Coast & Glens is an excellent choice. Additionally, the area around the Ilulissat Icefjord features well-marked trails, including a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk that leads to stunning views of the icebergs.

Greenland's wilderness is home to unique Arctic wildlife. On land, you might spot musk oxen, arctic foxes, arctic hares, and reindeer. The coastal areas and fjords are excellent for spotting marine life, including various species of seals and whales. Birdwatchers can also enjoy seeing numerous seabirds.

For a day hike, it's crucial to prepare for changing weather. Essential items include layered clothing (a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating mid-layer like fleece, and a waterproof/windproof outer shell), sturdy waterproof hiking boots, a warm hat, and gloves. Also, pack a map, compass or GPS, plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and insect repellent, as mosquitos can be prevalent in summer.

While polar bear encounters are rare in the main hiking areas of West and South Greenland, they are a real risk, particularly in the north and east. It is strongly advised to hike with an experienced local guide who is trained in polar bear safety. Always be aware of your surroundings, never leave food scraps behind, and check local advice before setting out.

The Arctic Circle Trail traverses a remote and varied landscape. The terrain consists of rocky paths, boggy sections, and rolling tundra. You will navigate around numerous lakes and cross small rivers. There are no forests; the landscape is wide open, offering vast views. The trail is challenging and requires complete self-sufficiency.

Yes, South Greenland has a network of trails, often connecting small towns, settlements, and sheep farms. This region is known for its greener landscapes, Viking history, and rolling hills. Hikes here offer a unique blend of nature and culture, allowing you to walk between communities while exploring historical ruins and enjoying fjord views.

Absolutely. The area around Nuuk, the capital, offers excellent day hiking opportunities. A popular and highly-regarded option is the hike up Quassussuaq (Lille Malene), which provides fantastic panoramic views over the city and the vast Nuuk Fjord system. The trails are well-marked and accessible directly from the city's outskirts.

Hiking in Ilulissat is defined by the colossal icebergs of the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Well-marked trails, such as the popular Yellow Trail, run along the coast, offering constant, breathtaking views of the ice-choked fjord. The sound of the ice cracking and the sheer scale of the icebergs make it an unforgettable experience.

Yes, Greenland is a premier destination for challenging treks. The most famous is the 100-mile (160 km) Arctic Circle Trail, an 8-10 day journey through remote wilderness. For a different kind of challenge, the Black Hill – Glenarm Castle loop from Carncastle is a demanding day hike with significant elevation gain. East Greenland also offers rugged, alpine-style trekking for experienced mountaineers.

The hiking routes in Greenland are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the profound sense of solitude, the raw, untouched wilderness, and the epic scale of the landscapes, from vast ice fields to dramatic fjords.

Yes, you can find circular routes. For a moderate loop with great views, consider the Black Hill loop from Carncastle. Many areas, especially around settlements like Ilulissat and Nuuk, feature loop trails that allow you to start and end in the same place without backtracking.