The Norse colony in Greenland lasted from the late 10th century to early in the 15th century (the exact date the colony died out is unknown). The most common theory is that it died out due to changing climate conditions (the Little Ice Age), and I have no personal reason to dispute this.
Personally, I find the Greenland colony somewhat fascinating. Given the harsh conditions in Greenland, it's quite amazing that it survived as long as it did. Had it survived longer, or even lasted enough to be recontacted by Europe, it could have had interesting effects on history. Also, given that there is evidence that the colony traded with local native populations, I would be curious to know if anyone had any evidence that the locals had intermarried with the natives? Would there be any evidence in the genetic makeup of native populations in the area even 600 years later?