By /

Polar Circle Marathon & Running of the Muskox

Polar Circle Marathon

 The Polar Circle Marathon – often referred to as “the coolest marathon on Earth” – takes place in Kangerlussuaq, Greenland. The endless ice and arctic tundra of this vast country are the backdrop for this unusual race, in which runners race through the soundless arctic desert past glacier tongues and moraine landscapes. This is a rare opportunity to visit one of the most remote corners of the world while daring to take part in an extremely challenging running event.

Feel the soft crunch of snow beneath your shoes while running through the arctic desert and over the Greenland Ice Sheet as you immerse yourself in rare and exceptional natural beauty… what more could we ask for? Runners can choose between the marathon Saturday or half marathon Sunday or run both by joining the Polar Bear Challenge!

Photo: Lisa Germany – Destination Arctic Circle

Running of the Muskox

The Running of the Muskox is an annual race and it is truly a Kangerlussuaq community effort. Many local businesses and groups, from tour companies to local artists and craftsmen, to the Kangerlussuaq school’s young student body, helps organize and host the event. The first race was held in August of 2012 and was the idea of some employees of the original race host – Polar Field Services.  The number of participants in the first event was 50 and has grown  steadily over the years. The number of participants was over 180 in 2015.  As they say, not bad for a town of 499.  Above photo is from and belongs to Running of the Musk ox.

Scroll to Top