The Marcialonga Arctic Ski Race will be held for the first time: A unique ski race that combines the popular northern Norwegian nature with the urban city life of downtown Bodø. The course starts in the heart of Bodø, at Rådhusplassen, and with nature in the immediate vicinity, the ski race takes you through an unparalleled natural experience. You’ll ski through beautiful Bodømarka and enjoy views of the Lofoten Mountains. 

“We differ from many other cross-country races because we combine urban city life with the spectacular nature of Nordland in the immediate vicinity of the city. This is the best of both worlds,” says Jon Lauvland Pettersen, Marcialonga Arctic Ski Race Marketing Manager.

The ski race has three different distances: 10-kilometer, 20-kilometer, and the 42-kilometer marathon edition. The course is designed so that both recreational skiers and elite athletes will benefit from it. The marathon edition has an altitude difference of 850 meters, which makes for a tough but fair competition. 

The Marcialonga Arctic Ski Race is part of the Ski Classics Challengers Series. This means that the organizer collaborates with Ski Classics on TV production and participation from Ski Classics Pro Tour teams. The race will become part of the Ski Classics Pro Tour starting in 2025.

The organizing city of Bodø is the perfect place to catch a glimpse of the sky’s popular light phenomenon, the Northern Lights. Perhaps an extra evening trip under the starry sky to hunt for the Northern Lights might be tempting?

Ski racing is also for the future

Besides that, Bodø is a compact city within walking distance of everything you need: airport, hotel, restaurants, nightlife, and great nature experiences. You can even walk from your hotel room to the start line and directly from the finish line to a bite to eat or a drink at the local café. This supports the organizer’s desire for environmental awareness. With everything in close proximity, shuttle bus traffic will be minimal, which means that emissions will be low. 

“The joy and drive of skiing gives us motivation to work with sustainability and the environment. Together with local sports and businesses, we can make this happen,” says Marit Elveos, Sustainability Manager at Marcialonga Arctic Ski Race. 

The ski race has also entered into a partnership with SJ, which provides a 25% discount on the train for visiting skiers and spectators. Best of all, it’s only a three-minute walk from the train station to the start line. 

Saturday night is a party night! The Marcialonga Arctic Ski Race will offer exciting entertainment and sales stalls, and you’ll be able to see Northern Norwegian songwriter and musician Vidar Vang and his band on the outdoor stage in Rådhusparken. Not only that, but you’ll also be able to make yourself comfortable in the world’s largest lavvo! Food and drink will be served, so you can enjoy your Saturday night in the northern Norwegian way. 

Find out more at the Marcialonga Arctic Ski Race website. 

We look forward to seeing you!