The 54-kilometer trek from Rena to Lillehammer stands as a hallmark challenge of the season, featuring long ascents, broad mountain terrain, and a finish steeped in Olympic legacy.
Established in 1932, the Birkebeinerrennet memorializes the perilous rescue of the infant Prince Haakon Haakonsson in 1206, when two Birkebeiner warriors skied across the mountains to ensure his safety. In tribute to this remarkable journey, every participant carries a 3.5kg backpack throughout the race. This symbol, paired with the course’s challenging profile, has elevated Birkebeinerrennet to one of the most respected and culturally significant events on the Pro Tour calendar.
A demanding and historic route across the mountains
The course steadily ascends from the starting point in Rena, climbing 1059 meters and reaching a peak at 906 meters above sea level. After the initial ascent, skiers are rewarded with breathtaking views of Norway’s winter landscape before tackling the lengthy second climb and the rapid, technical descent into Lillehammer’s Olympic stadium.
“Birkebeinerrennet is not just a ski race — it is a celebration of strength, resilience, and historical bravery. Every stride echoes the legacy of those who carried the Royal Prince across the mountains in 1206. We are honored to host one of the iconic races in Ski Classics Season XVII,” stated Jostein Buraas, CEO of Birkebeinerrennet, in a previous statement.
Also Read – Birkebeinerrennet: The final Grand Classics event of Season XVII
This event often significantly influences the overall standings for both women and men, and as the last Grand Classics event of the season, the stakes will be exceptionally high for athletes and Pro Teams.
Birkebeinerrennet – Ski Classics Pro Tour Event 10
- Date: Saturday, March 14, 2026
- Location: Rena–Lillehammer, Norway
- Distance: 54km Classic Technique
- Highest Point: 906m
- Elevation Gain: 1059m
- Last Edition Winners: Stina Nilsson (2:44:48.1) and Andreas Nygaard (2:20:15.2)
- SC Play: Birkebeinerrennet
For more details about Birkebeinerrennet, click HERE.
Where to stay: from the start village calm to Olympic comfort
The event seamlessly connects two contrasting atmospheres: the serene forest backdrop of Rena and the bustling Olympic ambiance of Lillehammer.
Rena presents a small-town charm, making it convenient for participants to stay nearby the start. Athletes can select from traditional Birken house accommodations, simple mattress lodging coordinated by the organizers, or more comfortable rooms at places like Trudvang Hotel and Granlund Guesthouse. Cabins and private rentals are also popular among groups and Pro Teams, and shuttle buses serve to connect accommodation areas to the start at Tingstadjordet on race morning.
Lillehammer presents a wider array of post-race recovery and relaxation options. Central hotels like Scandic Victoria Lillehammer, Mølla Hotel, and Birkebeineren Hotel & Apartments are ideal for those seeking a more secluded mountain atmosphere, while cabins and lodges in Sjusjøen, Nordseter, and Hafjell provide easy access to ski trails and stunning views.
Where to eat: local and international options
Rena’s compact center boasts several convenient dining choices leading up to race day. Åmot Kulturhus Café is situated within the same building as bib pick-up and serves as a lively gathering place in the days before the event. Milano Restaurant & Pizzeria and Andaman Thai & Sushi Restaurant provide dependable meal options as competition day approaches.
In Lillehammer, both athletes and spectators can indulge in a mix of contemporary Nordic cuisine and classic Norwegian fare. Notable venues include Kjøpstaden Brasserie & Bar, Bryggerikjelleren steakhouse, Lillehammer Bakeri, Hvelvet Restaurant, and the family-friendly Lille Pannekakehuset, perfect for a post-race celebration.
What to see and experience
Rena is a tranquil Østerdalen village enveloped by forests, cold winter air, and a unique pre-race ambiance. Many participants opt for a short ski on the nearby trails or take time to relax and prepare for the start.
Lillehammer, renowned for hosting the 1994 Winter Olympics, offers plenty of attractions. The Lysgårdsbakkene Ski Jumping Arena presents sweeping views over the town, the Maihaugen open-air museum showcases Norway’s rich architectural and cultural history, and the Norwegian Olympic Museum provides a glimpse into the legacy of the Olympic Games through original artifacts and multimedia displays.
A key moment in the final phase of Season XVII
As the concluding Grand Classics event of the season, Birkebeinerrennet carries substantial significance in the overall standings, often playing a pivotal role in the race for the Yellow, Green, Pink, and Climb bibs. With its rich heritage, challenging terrain, and cultural importance, it stands as a signature event in long-distance skiing.
Skiers, spectators, and fans following the Pro Tour can expect an unforgettable day as the Pro Teams traverse the mountains between Rena and Lillehammer, upholding one of Norway’s most cherished winter traditions.
Stay tuned for live updates
Comprehensive live coverage of Birkebeinerrennet will be streamed on the platform SC Play with English commentary.
Ski Classics Pro Tour Season XVII (2025/2026)
- Event 1: December 13, 2025 — Bad Gastein Pro Team Tempo — Sportgastein, Austria, 7 km.
- Event 2: December 14, 2025 — Bad Gastein Criterium — Sportgastein, Austria, 36 km.
- Event 3: January 17, 2026 — Engadin La Diagonela — Pontresina-Zuoz, Switzerland, 55 km.
- Event 4: January 25, 2026 — Marcialonga — Moena-Cavalese, Italy, 70 km.
- Event 5: January 30, 2026 — Bedřichov Sprint — Bedřichov, Czech Republic, 1.5 km.
- Event 6: February 1, 2026 — Jizerka 50 — Bedřichov, Czech Republic, 50 km.
- Event 7: March 1, 2026 — Vasaloppet — Sälen-Mora, Sweden, 90 km.
- Event 8: March 7, 2026 — Orsa Grönklitt 50k ITT Women — Grönklitt, Sweden, 50 km.
- Event 9: March 8, 2026 — Orsa Grönklitt 50k ITT Men — Grönklitt, Sweden, 50 km.
- Event 10: March 14, 2026 — Birkebeinerrennet — Rena-Lillehammer, Norway, 54 km.
- Event 11: March 21, 2026 — Marcialonga Bodø — Bodø, Norway, 50 km.
- Event 12: March 28, 2026 — Reistadløpet — Setermoen-Bardufoss, Norway, 35 km.
- Event 13: March 29, 2026 — Grand Final Summit 2 Senja — Bardufoss-Finnsnes, Norway, 60 km.
For updates and detailed information about the Ski Classics Pro Tour, make sure to visit skiclassics.com.
Interested in ski classics and long-distance ski races? Click HERE to read more.
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