The Ski Classics Challengers event Fossavatnsgangan is a 50km long-distance race in classic technique taking place this Saturday, April 12, in Ísafjördur, Iceland.

Fossavatnsgangan is the Ski Classics Challengers event in Iceland. The event takes place in Ísafjördur and was established in 1935, being the oldest long-distance race in Iceland, with the 50-kilometer-long classic-style race being on the program since 2004.

The race starts and finishes at Seljalandsdalur-Ísafjördur’s main cross-country skiing area. The trails go along the mountains surrounding Ísafjördur with a breathtaking view and under the pleasant spring weather. 

The Course In A Nutshell

The first 15km are challenging as you work your way from 290m of altitude up to 614m. From there, you have a relatively easy 10km descent towards Nónvatn and Engidalur, to the turning point at “Steinn” (approximately 26km). The next 4km are not easy and are followed by a very long and demanding climb up to Fellsháls. 

After that, you have a long section in a gentle terrain before the final climb up the notorious Miðfellsháls. From there, the last 7km are all flat or downhill.

Everyone Carries A Backpack

According to the Local Organization, skiers can face all weather, and anything can happen. For safety, participants in 25km and 50km races on Saturday are required to carry a backpack, and waist packs are not allowed.

The backpack should at least include outer pants, a jacket, a cap, and gloves. In addition, most bring some nutrition, a cup or a flask (organizers provide drinks along the way but not cups), ski wax, and a phone. The bag should weigh at least 1.5kg. Staff can weigh bags at any time during the race. If it is too light or some requirements are not fulfilled, organizers add 15 minutes to your time.

In addition to the 50km main event, Fossavatnsgangan is a series of events, running from April 9 until April 12, offering events such as night races of 35 and 70km, freestyle race, 12.5 and 25km in classic technique, and kids and family races of 1 and 5km. 

The Best Moments of Fossavatnsgangan 2024

Fossavatnsgangan – Ski Classics Challengers

• Location: Ísafjördur, Iceland
• Date: Saturday, April 12, 2025
• Start Time: 10:00 CEST
• Distance: 50km Classic Technique
• Website: Fossavatnsgangan 
• Facebook: Fossavatnsgangan  
• Instagram: Fossavatnsgangan 

The Fossavatnsgangan program, start lists, live results, and final standings can be followed HERE 

You can find more information about the event HERE

As Fossavatnsgangan 50km is a Ski Classics Challengers event, Pro Team registered athletes can collect points for the Ski Classics Champion and Youth competitions in their respective genders. 

A list of Ski Classics Challengers events with confirmed dates for season 2025/2026 can be found at Ski Classics. The list is updated continuously with new events.

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