Arctic Circle Trail, Part I

Four days from anywhere, on the Arctic Circle Trail

Four days from anywhere on the Arctic Circle Trail

The 100-mile trek between Sisimiut and Kangerlussuaq is variously described as a “backpacking classic” and “one of the great walks of the world.” I’m a sucker for just that sort of thing, and decided early that the hike would be central to my proposal. In the past, I’ve found that after three or four days of continuous walking my feet and mind slip into strange and productive new rhythms, difficult to otherwise replicate. And because my project is in some sense about an altered state––an epistemological crisis, an imagined obstruction of ice and rock that occurs only after many weeks at sea––it seemed somehow important to enact my protagonist’s voyage in miniature. Plus, in less lofty terms, a 100-mile walk across wild Greenland just seemed ridiculously romantic to me. I mean, right?

A reindeer blazes a false path

A reindeer blazes a false path

Well of course it’s one thing to like the sound of something and another to be doing it––day in and day out. Emily, my companion for the trek, and I have done multi-day hikes before, but by the end of just the first leg it was clear that this was something beyond what either of us was used to. In Greenlandic terms, the route is enormously popular (most days we’d encounter one or sometimes two parties, almost always going the other way). Even so, the trail itself is often just a rumor; cairns are clustered together in some places and altogether absent in others. Making this much harder is the fact that the route is crisscrossed with misleading reindeer paths. We often found ourselves moving briskly away from a cairn before noticing heaps of scat, and a path quickly narrowing into untrodden marshland.

The terrain at 66º North

The terrain at 66º North

The terrain this far north––just above the Arctic Circle––has some definite pros and cons. For one, there aren’t any trees, which makes contour map-reading terrifically easy. On the flip side, the walking isn’t quite a stroll through a rolling meadow; much of the low-elevation hiking is through boggy swamps with beautiful but challenging mounds of moss and grass. These hillocks are spaced about a stride apart, and covered over so that you can’t see the ankle-cracking crevasses between them. Even apart from these traps, the surface is spongy and absorbent to such a degree that it feels like walking through knee-high snow . I read somewhere that it’s like “walking on basketballs,” and that totally nails it.

A rare moment free of the headnet

A rare moment free of the headnet

I wasn’t accustomed to multiple river fordings per day, mosquitos so persistent that headnets were an absolute must, or having many days between latrines (there are huts, but they’re irregularly spaced, and only two in 100 miles have bag toilets). So, it was a little rough out there, but we made it out okay––9 days of walking, 100.2 miles on the GPS odometer, plugging away with 50 lbs. (minus our diminishing food) more or less on each of our backs. We’re pretty proud it’s behind us, and have decided that the only way we’ll ever do it again is via the 3-day winter dogsledding option.

Because no one wants to read a minute-by-minute (or even a day-by-day) account of a 9-day, 100-mile hike, I figured I would pick out three highlights––the best moments of an epic walk. I’ll post those next.

50 Comments

matka prabhat posted on March 23, 2023 at 1:55 pm

Like!! Thank you for publishing this awesome article.

ดูหนังออนไลน์ฟรี posted on March 23, 2023 at 11:59 pm

Nice and interesting article. Well done. Thanks for the info.

Slot Garansi Kekalahan posted on March 24, 2023 at 5:56 am

Daftar Ozzo Slot Garansi Kekalahan 100 Persen Tanpa TO Bebas IP & Buyspin Terpercaya ARENABOCAH

B2b Massage posted on March 24, 2023 at 11:28 pm

thanks good

regine posted on March 25, 2023 at 5:17 am

Hi mates, its great article regarding tutoringand fully defined, keep it
up all the time.

alperen yusuf çoban posted on March 25, 2023 at 7:36 am

Alyu Organizasyon Ankara Başkentin en gözde organizasyon firmalarındandır.

Alyu Organizasyon’un misyonu professionel ve kaliteli ekibimizle siz değerli müşterilerimizi özel günlerinde mutlu edebilecek organizasyonu planlama deneyimi sunmaktır.

Ankara Organizasyon

Bocoran Admin Riki posted on March 25, 2023 at 8:39 am

ARENABOCAH adalah Situs Slot Gacor Jarwo Hari Ini dari Bocoran Admin Riki Situs Pay4D Terbaru dan Terpercaya 2023 Di Indonesia gampang menang dengan deposit pulsa tanpa potongan

Instagram post download posted on March 27, 2023 at 4:21 am

It’s crucial to remember that Instagram post download should always be done responsibly and ethically. Before downloading anything, you should always make sure the post’s author has given you permission. Moreover, be aware of copyright regulations and refrain from using downloaded content for profit without permission.

Buy Digitalocean Account posted on March 27, 2023 at 4:22 am

DigitalOcean is a software development company that offers cloud-based storage, applications and services for developers. Accounts are created through the purchase of a digital key or user licence. We sell good quality Digitalocean Accounts on our website. We serve 24 hours a day. We hope you enjoy the service.

Mark selby posted on March 27, 2023 at 6:10 am

You need the login credentials to access the admin dashboard of the Victony wireless range extender. Be it the firmer update or modify any settings, you need to log in first and then make the desired changes. When you do the initial Victony WiFi extender setup, then also the login is needed.

Peter jones posted on March 27, 2023 at 7:06 am

Nowadays, almost every user is performing Amped wireless range extender setup in their homes with this hope that they will get blazing-fast and lag-free internet range to access all over their home. However, after configuring the Amped range extender, they are not satisfied with the internet range they are getting.

fiewin posted on March 27, 2023 at 8:23 am

An interesting discussion might be priced at comment. I do believe that you can write much more about this topic, it will not certainly be a taboo subject but generally consumers are there are not enough to dicuss on such topics. An additional. Cheers

Best Electrical Supply posted on March 28, 2023 at 9:00 am

A good electrical supply store should offer a wide range of quality products at competitive prices and provide excellent customer service and technical support. It is important to choose a reliable and trustworthy electrical supply store that can meet your needs and ensure that you have the necessary equipment and components to get your electrical project done safely and efficiently.

Tamildhool posted on March 28, 2023 at 11:32 am

thnx blogs sites love u

Tamildhool posted on March 28, 2023 at 11:33 am

Watch Tamil Serials and Tamil Tv Shows online on TamilDhool. Vijay Tv Serials, All Complete Episodes in High Quality Free

koiplay posted on March 29, 2023 at 6:25 am

Koiplay merupakan daftar situs judi OZZO Slot online gacor dengan deposit pulsa tanpa potongan dan togel terpercaya serta live rtp slot 24jam paling lengkap

I really appreciate you for sharing this blog post.

compress jpeg to 250kb posted on March 29, 2023 at 2:34 pm

These tools use different algorithms and techniques to optimize the JPEG image by reducing its size, adjusting its dimensions, and lowering its quality to achieve the target file size

compress jpeg to 500kb posted on March 29, 2023 at 2:35 pm

These tools use different algorithms and techniques to optimize the JPEG image by reducing its size, adjusting its dimensions, and lowering its quality to achieve the target file size

vccshoppers.com posted on March 30, 2023 at 2:28 am

Whether you want to purchase services and products online without the need of a credit card or make quick and secure payments, BuyVCC PayPal is the perfect choice. Not only is the setup process fast and easy, but you’ll also receive helpful features and benefits. Plus, because of its highest levels of data encryption, you can rest assured that your information is safe.

Phimhay posted on March 31, 2023 at 1:28 am

Nice

Phephim posted on March 31, 2023 at 1:29 am

that’s all i need

laura posted on March 31, 2023 at 1:52 am

great

powerballsite posted on March 31, 2023 at 5:42 am

This is my first time visiting this page, and you have offered information that I found to be helpful. I have saved the webpage so that I can read more articles like it!

sportstoto365 posted on March 31, 2023 at 5:43 am

This essay is quite beautiful and instructive. Here, I’ve discovered a wealth of useful knowledge. I want to thank you for this interesting read. I really appreciate you giving this to me.

totositerank posted on March 31, 2023 at 5:43 am

We greatly value the things you offer on this site and your excellent work; please keep it up.

totosafeguide posted on March 31, 2023 at 5:44 am

It’s nice to see this lovely blog! Please continue providing us with this kind of information. observing the future from your side.

ozzo slot posted on April 1, 2023 at 8:53 am

Daftar Situs Ozzo Slot Gacor Terpercaya Deposit Pulsa 24 Jam Online

https://saldebus.com posted on April 3, 2023 at 4:10 am

Very nice really amazing post thank for this.

TC Lottery posted on April 4, 2023 at 12:46 pm

This will be on top of that a reasonably decent article which we obviously favorite scrutinizing. Far from day after day which inturn like the opportunities to pinpoint a products.

takagotocom posted on April 5, 2023 at 4:26 pm

From my opinion, nothing at all consequently catching being keenness, the idea carressed pure stone, it’s substance concerning hope. Sturdy faith would be successful with all of the effective fellow, and then suggest these individuals more substantial.

toto365pro posted on April 7, 2023 at 5:30 am

i’ve never wanted a happy ending for a pair on missedconnections more than now. i hope they find each other.

sportstototvcom posted on April 7, 2023 at 5:30 am

I just love this blog and this piece of art. It’s just so romantic and life affirming. When all we’re ever fed in the media is 99% bad news isn’t it great to see a city and it’s people portrayed as wonderful beings. I just really hope they get together!

خرید اکانت تریدینگ ویو posted on April 7, 2023 at 5:23 pm

باید از تریدینگ ویو کاره است و برای تنظیم هشدارها حداقل ۱۰ شرایط هشدار مختلف را در هر یک از دسته های موجود در اختیار معامله گران قرار می دهد. تریدینگ ویو با ارائه نمودارهای قیمتی و ابزارهای مرتبط با آنها، تحلیل تکنیکال را برای تحلیل گران با هر سبکی آسان نموده است. برای انجام تحلیل تکنیکال اریبانی می کنند ذکر شده که هر کاربر تنها یکبار مجاز به فعال کردن حالت تریال خواهد بود ( حتی اگر در دو اکانت جداگانه تهیه شود ) و در صورت شناسایی اکانت فرد غیرفعال خواهد شد. از طریق این قابلیت، معامله گران می توانند در یک فضای شبیه سازی شده

فروشگاه آنلاین مسترکافی posted on April 7, 2023 at 5:24 pm

ه این ترتیب هزینه های واسز میشود. موتورولا نسخههایی ویژه از تلفنهای همراه سلور، کرزر و رازر را معرفی کرد که ۵۰٪ از سود فروش هر دستگاه از آنها به صندوق جهانی اهدا شد. در طول جنگ جهانی دوم تعدادی از شرکتهای سوئیسی که در آلمان نازی کارخانه داشتند از کارگرهای اجباری بهره برده بودند، که پس از جنگ با شکایت بازماندگان جنگ مجبور به پرداخت غرامت شدند. در غیاب پدر کریستین یک طرفدار تند و تیز و وفادار حزب حاکم سوسیالیست آلمان شدهاست. این صفحه آخرینبا

خرید اکانت تریدینگ ویو posted on April 7, 2023 at 5:26 pm

باید از تریدینگ ویو کاره است و برای تنظیم هشدارها حداقل ۱۰ شرایط هشدار مختلف را در هر یک از دسته های موجود در اختیار معامله گران قرار می دهد. تریدینگ ویو با ارائه نمودارهای قیمتی و ابزارهای مرتبط با آنها، تحلیل تکنیکال را برای تحلیل گران با هر سبکی آسان نموده است. برای انجام تحلیل تکنیکال اریبانی می کنند ذکر شده که هر کاربر تنها یکبار مجاز به فعال کردن حالت تریال خواهد بود ( حتی اگر در دو اکانت جداگانه تهیه شود ) و در صورت شناسایی اکانت فرد غیرفعال خواهد شد. از طریق این قابلیت، معامله گران می توانند در یک فضای شبیه سازی شده

فروشگاه آنلاین مسترکافی posted on April 7, 2023 at 5:28 pm

ه این ترتیب هزینه های واسز میشود. موتورولا نسخههایی ویژه از تلفنهای همراه سلور، کرزر و رازر را معرفی کرد که ۵۰٪ از سود فروش هر دستگاه از آنها به صندوق جهانی اهدا شد. در طول جنگ جهانی دوم تعدادی از شرکتهای سوئیسی که در آلمان نازی کارخانه داشتند از کارگرهای اجباری بهره برده بودند، که پس از جنگ با شکایت بازماندگان جنگ مجبور به پرداخت غرامت شدند. در غیاب پدر کریستین یک طرفدار تند و تیز و وفادار حزب حاکم سوسیالیست آلمان شدهاست. این صفحه آخرینبا

poppy playtime posted on April 7, 2023 at 10:40 pm

I am a new user of this site, so when I came here I found several articles and posts that had been posted by the site. I am curious and interested in some of them, and I hope that you will provide more information on this subject in your subsequent articles.

Megha posted on April 8, 2023 at 4:56 am

Meet very upscale and sophisticated russian girls in Delhi for true girlfriend experience

Upsprit com posted on April 8, 2023 at 11:04 am

Thank you so much for your supportive information and expert analysis

Pool remodel posted on April 8, 2023 at 4:55 pm

Hello this is a great post. I’m going to email this to my friends. I stumbled on this while browsing on bing I’ll be sure to come back. thanks for sharing.

sportstototvcom posted on April 10, 2023 at 3:47 am

May I pick one formula of football betting? Give away to those who play Have been used to collect victories and profit Which this formula is about time In which time is the key Of driving everything

toto365pro posted on April 10, 2023 at 3:47 am

Thank you. My site also has lots of useful information related to the casino. Especially if you want to find useful information about Baccarat, please visit my site.

دستگاه تصفیه آب posted on April 10, 2023 at 7:58 am

قیمت دستگاه تصفیه آب خانگی

graskaufenonline posted on April 10, 2023 at 1:42 pm

gras kaufen,
marihuana,
cannabis kaufen,
cannabis samen kaufen,
sativa,
cannabis sativa,
indica sativa,

sawarna srikandi posted on April 10, 2023 at 8:48 pm

di sekitar pantai juga terdapat banyak tempat wisata menarik, seperti air terjun Curug Cikaso, dan Goa Lalay.

حسابات فورت نايت مجانا posted on April 11, 2023 at 1:35 am

Thanks for the positive information. UBL Academy is a DIGITAL MARKETING AGENCY headquartered in the United Arab Emirates

فورت نايت posted on April 11, 2023 at 1:45 am

di sekitar pantai juga terdapat banyak tempat wisata menarik, seperti air terjun Curug Cikaso, dan Goa Lalay.

Mantap21 posted on April 11, 2023 at 3:14 am

what really a nice article babe

rockspace extender setup posted on April 11, 2023 at 7:48 am

Thanks foe share the info.

Post a Comment

Your email address is never shared. Required fields are marked *