Best Places to Snowshoe in Greenland
Posted by Crescent Moon on Nov 19th 2022
dIf you’ve never been snowshoeing than you've missed out on some scenery that can’t be seen by any other mode of transportation. Walking in the pristine snow with signs of no other hikers and making your own path can be a great adventure for outdoor enthusiasts. In Greenland, you can go far into the backcountry with snowshoes, just as you would on summer hikes.
5 Best Places to Snowshoe in Greenland
Greenland has a sparse population, is home to the world’s second-largest ice sheet, and has some of the oldest rocks found on earth. Some of these rocks are thought to be over 3.5 billion years old. Since the climate in Greenland is arctic to subarctic, there are many opportunities to enjoy outside activities if you can bear the cold. The terrain of the country is primarily flat, except for the mountainous, rocky coastlines.
Those looking to try snowshoeing should start with some of the flat areas first, as some of the pathways can be very difficult, and should only be navigated by experienced snowshoes. Below are the top five snowshoeing excursions. Before starting any outdoor adventure, you should be well prepared with the right clothing, food/water, and equipment. Also, if you are not used to the terrain and paths, you should consult with a professional so you know what to expect.
With the right planning, your snowshoe trip to Greenland could be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Sermiligaaq (Pyramid of the Sun
The Sermiligaaq settlement is located on a peninsula located on Greenland’s east coast and has around 200 inhabitants. It is known primarily as a fishing and hunting area, but during the winter months, it is a popular snowshoeing spot. Those looking to traverse this area may see seals and polar bears making their home near the Knud Rasmussen and Karale Glaciers.
Distance: 40.8 km
Elevation Gain: 26,594
Difficulty Level: Difficult
Trail Type: One way
Ilulissat
It's located in East Greenland, an adventure you will always remember. The usual hiking routes are covered with snow, so an experienced guide is suggested. During this trip, you will be able to enjoy views of the Sermermiut Valley, icebergs, and Disko Bay. Most trips follow the edge of the fjord close to the Ilulissat Ice Fjord the majestic icebergs lining the sandbanks.
Distance: 48.4 km
Elevation Gain: 3.38 miles
Difficulty Level: Moderate to difficult
Trail Type: One way
Quassussuaq (in Nuuk)
This snowshoe trail offers stunning views just outside of the town of Nuuk. Be ready for some rough terrain as the path is a constant incline the entire way. The effort will be worth it as snowshoers see incredible vistas all along the way. Some are even lucky enough to see some of the arctic wildlife that makes their home in the area. The end of the path has a sheer drop that goes 760m to the Fjord.
At this point, visitors have incredible 360-degree views of the local mountains and fjords.
Distance: 55 km
Elevation Gain: 3.38 miles
Difficulty Level: Moderate to difficult
Trail Type: One way
Tasillaq
Known as southeast Greenland’s largest town has a whopping 1,985 residents. The area is located about 66 miles south of the artic circle and on the coast of Ammassalik island. Snowshoers will have great views of the Tasiilaq Fjord and the inlet along the island. This is an easy pathway to points overlooking the Denmark Straight and is a good starting snowy hike for novices.
Distance: varies depending on the path taken
Elevation Gain: varies depending on the path taken
Difficulty Level: Easy
Trail Type: One way
Qoorsquaq Canyon
This trail will bring you to the frozen shore and fjord entering the Qoorsquaq canyon. While there are marked paths, some opt to follow their instincts and go off the path. Along this path you will start at Ilulissat and go along the entire fjord, this area is flat and opens up to the spectacular view of the expansive fjord. If you continue on you will reach Seqinniarkfik which will take you back to your starting area. If you continue further east, the terrain becomes more demanding due to excess snow and cold.
Distance: 6.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 873 feet
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Trail Type: Loop
Best Snowshoes to Wear in Greenland
If you're planning to venture out in Greenland and hike these amazing trails with breathtaking views, then you'll need a solid pair of snowshoes for you and your family. Crescent Moon offers a wide variety of both aluminum snowshoes and foam snowshoes, they even have kids snowshoes available! Perfect for wearing along the frozen tundra on the shores of Greenland's landscape.