The route covers 165 kilometres (103 miles) from the interior settlement of Kangerlussuaq to Sisimiut on the coast.

The trail does not have any significant mountain passes to cross, reaching a maximum altitude of 450 metres (1,480 ft).

[1] During summer the route is largely snow free, but during spring, fall, and winter it requires skis, snowmobiles, or dog sleds to travel.

[6] There are no towns or settlements along the route for resupply, so hikers must be completely self-supported in terms of food and gear.

[2][8] Otherwise, the most common challenges faced are the extreme remoteness of the trail, river crossings, and a heavy mosquito population during the early summer.