- Dates: March 11-16, 2026
- Location: Rena-Lillehammer, Norway
- Classic technique: 28 km / 54 km
- Free technique: 54 km
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The ski marathon glides through varied landscapes from the small town of Rena to the Olympic city of Lillehammer.
The route offers breathtaking views of Norway’s mountains and tundra-like nature. What makes the marathon unique is a long-standing tradition requiring all participants to complete the course with a 3.5 kg backpack.
Oslo Airport is about a two-hour drive from both the start and finish locations.
About the marathon
The Birkebeinerrennet ski marathon is one of Norway’s most popular and longest-running sporting events. During the two-day ski festival, you have the opportunity to participate in 28 km and 54 km races in both classic and skating techniques.
The main marathon, a 54 km classic technique race, takes place on Saturday, March 18. Adding to the challenge, all participants must complete the marathon with a 3.5 kg backpack, which is weighed both at the start and when crossing the finish line.
The ski marathon originates from a legend dating back to the 13th-century, in which two Norwegian skiers saved the one-year-old crown prince, Håkan from enemy forces by carrying him in a backpack. Inspired by this story, the first marathon was held in 1932, with 155 male skiers at the starting line. While the number of participants has since grown to 18,000, the tradition of carrying a backpack remains to this day.
The photos used are official images from the marathon organizers.*
About the marathon trail
The marathon trail is the most physically demanding from the Worldloppet series, skiing over two bigger mountains, from where you get an astonishing view over the treetops, stretching into the distance. In these moments you can capture a mental picture, almost like a landscape painting of Norway´s nature. The mountain peaks that the marathon crosses rise up to approximately 900 meters above the sea level.
The descents on the course are fast and curvy, requiring good ski control skills.
The finnish line will be crossed proudly at Lillehammer’s famous ski stadium, where the 1994 Winter Olympics were also held.
All ski festival events are counted under the Worldloppet standings, and are displayed on your Worldloppet ski passport.
Relay Race
An especially extraordinary experience is the 4 x 7.5 km ski relay race around the Lillehammer Olympic Stadium. The start, exchange zones, and finish are all located within the stadium, so you’ll have the extra thrill of cheering on your teammates and giving them a supportive boost!
All team members must be at least 16 years old, and wearing a backpack is optional in the relay race. The ski relay takes place in classic technique on Friday, March 17.
Accommodation and catering
Accommodation is arranged in row house-style apartments, each accommodating 4-6 people. The houses are equipped with a kitchen, toilet, and bathroom. The accommodation is located about 35 km from the start and 90 km from the finish.
We will be staying in a village where there is also a shop nearby, should you need anything. For meals, we’ll introduce you to nearby restaurants where you can choose what suits you best. The houses also have fully equipped kitchens, so you can prepare a delicious meal on your own or with your housemates.
“The Birken trail with the tough weather was the greatest pleasure of the whole experience,” shared Andres.
Richard added, “I would definitely recommend this trip. New wonderful friends with similar interests.”
A royal experience
The marathon must be completed with a 3.5 kg backpack, which, according to legend, represents the former crown prince. What a proud feeling!
Interesting trail
The most challenging course in the Worldloppet series of marathons. There are options for both short and long distances in both skiing techniques.
Norwegian nature
The cold and frosty northern nature and diverse landscape, from the highest peaks of the trail, views of natural paintings unfold.
Meeting point of the trip
You can choose between two trip packages. A package that includes traveling by ferry from Tallinn to Stockholm and continuing with SportTravel bus transfer to Lillehammer. The other package includes meeting at the Oslo airport, Norway.
If you choose the second option, please arrange your own flights. Specific meeting times will be shared with registered participants.
Package with ferry
The start and the end of the trip in Tallinn port, Estonia.
- Ferry tickets back and forth (B4 cabin)
- During departure, breakfast in the boat buffet-restaurant
- Accommodation in twin room for 3 nights
- Local transport
- Travel organization service and a supportive group leader
Package price is 655 EUR.
EARLY bird price: if you register before December 10, 2025 (incl.), the price of the package is 595 EUR.
The price does not include the marathon participation fee, which depends on the distance(s) you choose. You can select your option on the registration form.
Package with meeting point in Oslo airport
The start and the end of the trip at Oslo airport, Norway.
- Accommodation in twin room for 3 nights
- Local transport
- Travel organization service and a supportive group leader
Package price is 625 EUR.
EARLY bird price: if you register before December 10, 2025 (incl.), the price of the package is 525 EUR.
The price does not include the marathon participation fee, which depends on the distance(s) you choose. You can select your option on the registration form.
Flexible payment options: after registration, we will send you the booking invoice (€300 per person). Payment of this invoice confirms your spot in the group. The remaining amount is due 40 days before the trip.
Group leader Jüri Marcinkevicz
Jüri is an active sport enthusiast whose experience includes over 150 international marathons in various sports (skiing, running, mountain biking, road cycling, and more). He is not driven by achievements, but by the experience of pushing his limits and the opportunity to discover different countries through active movement. He definitely has a lot of tips and useful recommendations to share.