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Glacier · Kangerlussuaq, Qeqqata
Russell Glacier
A tongue of ice that descends from the ice cap down to the tundra east of Kangerlussuaq, with a front tens of meters high. It lies along the road toward Point 660.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Russell Glacier
Russell Glacier is one of the ice tongues that flow from the ice cap toward the Kangerlussuaq valley. Unlike glaciers that end in the sea, it terminates on land, in a wall of ice tens of meters high in front of a meltwater river.
The front is a little over 20 km from the settlement along the road that leads to Point 660. From where vehicles stop, a short walk across the sand and gravel plain takes you to the riverbank, where you can see the ice face up close.
On warm summer days it’s common to hear cracks and see blocks of ice calving into the river. The glacier has been studied for decades by scientists who measure how much ice the ice cap is losing.
In the surrounding tundra, muskoxen and reindeer graze, and the trails that skirt the glacier front climb the moraines, offering views from above.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Three to four hours, including the route from the settlement.
Best time
In summer, from June to September. During the warmest hours of the day the glacier front tends to calve more frequently.
How to get there
By the road that leaves Kangerlussuaq toward Point 660, on an organized tour; from there, a short walk leads to the riverbank in front of the ice face.
Tip
Keep your distance from the glacier front and do not cross the meltwater river: ice blocks can fall at any time, and the current is strong and frigid.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Russell Glacier
Where is Russell Glacier located?
East of Kangerlussuaq, a little over 20 km from the settlement along the dirt road that leads to the ice cap.
Can Russell Glacier be combined with Point 660?
Yes, many tours stop at Russell Glacier and continue to Point 660, on the ice cap edge, on the same day.
Is it possible to see muskoxen near Russell Glacier?
Yes, they often graze on the valley tundra, but their presence depends on the day. Observe them from a distance.