Hiking to Garnet Rock

Greenland’s geological history is a fascinating transformation through billions of years where mountain ranges sprouted and eroded into erupting volcanoes, where ice ages transformed into tropical climates with blossoming trees and where icebergs of the surrounding oceans melted into coral reefs. 

Today in Kangerlussuaq, the impacts of climate changes are evident on the barren rock surfaces and you can clearly see how ice has shaped the mountainous landscape. The area’s vegetation includes dwarf birch (Betula nana), crowberry (Empetrum nigrum), and Rhododendron (Rhododendron groenlandicum). The aroma of these plants lingering in the fresh mountain air is very special.

This tour begins with a drive (by car or bus) to the top of Tacan, a mountain shaped by the last ice age that offers excellent views of the surrounding area. From Tacan, we will circle the Great Salt Lake. Most of the walk is descending, but a few hill climbs should be expected.

After 2.5 to 3 hours, we will arrive to Garnet Rock. Now, it is time to put your hammer and chisel to good use as our search begins for semi-precious garnet gemstones. 

During our quest for these jewels, there will be time to pause and enjoy lunch. If we are lucky, we can spot peregrine falcons nesting on the mountainside or encounter foraging musk oxen.

After we explored the garnet-rich rock, our journey will return along the shores of Lake Ferguson, where we hope to see the beautiful Great Northern Loon (Gavia immer) at its nesting grounds and listen for its very distinctive call, which can be heard for miles. After making our way to the lake’s end, we will be picked by and driven back to Kangerlussuaq.