Best time to visit Greenland

Hiking in Greenland

While hiking the monumental landscapes​ of Greenland you can truly experience the smallness and temporality of being human

Best time: June–September

Hiking
Hiking
Hiking
Hiking
Hiking

Greenland is huge, around the size of Western Europe, but 85% of its surface is covered with ice and snow all year round. Such conditions, being surrounded by ice and water, really radiate a genuine feeling and even smell of the Arctic​. This frosty and raw smell makes hiking in Greenland especially pleasant. There's absolutely no trouble with finding a route for hiking or trekking since there's a great system of trails, especially in the South. The towns are small, surrounded by natural landscapes, so short one-day hikes are possible. Longer hikes between towns are also possible—like Sisimiut and Kangerlussuaq along the Arctic Circle Trail. The diverse scenery of valleys, lakes, and hills is quite spectacular. The eastern part of Greenland is great for mountain hiking thanks to some high mountains with dramatic views. The mountain air is so dry and clear that you can see quite far and experience the enormity of this island first-hand. The best time for hiking and trekking is usually between June and September, but August is especially great because there are fewer mosquitos too.

Practical info

What is the best time to hike mountain trails in Greenland?

The optimal time to go hiking on the mountain trails in Greenland is from June to September, when the weather is dry and stable. If you are seeking to avoid mosquitos, you should aim to go in August. It is worth noting that temperatures vary during the day, so dressing in layers is a good strategy to maintain comfort throughout your hike. Show more

Can I hike between towns in Greenland?

It is feasible to engage in hiking between towns in Greenland. For instance, the Arctic Circle Trail connects Kangerlussuaq and Sisimiut. As Greenland's towns are quite small, you will likely need to prepare for multiple days of self-sufficiency during your journey. It is crucial to be informed of the terrain and keep in mind that weather conditions can shift rapidly. Show more

Where can I find the most dramatic views when hiking?

For hikers looking for stunning and awe-inspiring vistas, the high mountains in eastern Greenland offer breathtaking panoramic views of lakes, valleys, and hills. As the mountain air is dry and clear in this area, it makes for an optimal location to view Greenland's natural beauty from above. Show more

When is the busiest period for hiking in Greenland?

Between July and August, is the most bustling period for hiking in Greenland. The trails at this time can be quite crowded. If you prefer solitude, it is best to hike in June or September. During these months, there are fewer people hiking, but the weather remains mild and pleasant. Show more

What is the hiking terrain like in Greenland?

Greenland's hiking terrain features a range of landscapes, with valleys, hills and mountain ridges, and glaciers in the vast ice and snow-covered regions, while the areas surrounding the towns have green Tundra-filled landscapes. Hiking trails are marked and maintained for hikers of all experience levels to make it uncomplicated to explore Greenland's natural terrain. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin