As it embarks on its second year as part of the Pro Tour schedule, the 50-kilometer classic race has swiftly established itself as one of the most unique and highly discussed events in long-distance skiing.
Initially held as a Challengers event prior to joining the Pro Tour last season, Marcialonga Bodø is distinctive due to its blend of accessibility, stunning terrain, and the vibrant light and atmosphere found just north of the Arctic Circle.
An innovative course maximizing reliability and challenge
For 2026, a revamped course will be introduced to ensure consistent snow conditions and enhance the race’s competitive structure. Elite skiers will commence at the Bestemorenga Ski Stadium, navigate two laps around Soløyvannet, and tackle a signature final ascent to Junkerfjellet, concluding at one of the most breathtaking viewpoints overlooking the Bodø region.
The course profile presents a challenging combination of continuous terrain showcasing frequent ups and downs, repeated transitions, and an accumulated elevation gain that gradually exhausts athletes. While it may not feature monstrous climbs like those found in Birken, Reistadløpet, or Summit 2 Senja, Marcialonga Bodø still presents a formidable challenge — the toughness arises from the constant elevation changes, Arctic conditions, and the critical final climb.
The ascent to Junkerfjellet – a unique finish on the Pro Tour
The final climb to Junkerfjellet delivers one of the most remarkable and demanding race finishes in Ski Classics:
- The climb begins just above 107 meters, adjacent to the stadium
- The route ascends to 283 meters at the peak
- Over this segment, more than 200 vertical meters are gained
- The climbing section features two small downhill stretches, introducing strategic decisions and rhythm changes
Finishing on a mountaintop with Bodø and the Norwegian Sea as a backdrop gives Marcialonga Bodø its unique identity — a scenic and demanding uphill conclusion. Athletes will arrive at the finish line fully exposed to the elements, making this a race where preparation, pacing, and resilience are crucial.
Marcialonga Bodø – Event 11 of the Ski Classics Pro Tour
- Date: Saturday, March 21, 2026
- Location: Bodø, Norway
- Distance: 50 km Classic Technique
- Highest Point: 283 m
- Elevation Gain: 1334 m
- Last Edition Winners: Stina Nilsson (2:26:52.4) and Eirik Sverdrup Augdal (2:09:21.6)
- SC Play: Marcialonga Bodø
More information about Marcialonga Bodø can be found HERE
A vibrant setting amidst sea, mountains, and culture
As the European Capital of Culture in 2024, Bodø is among Norway’s burgeoning cities. The area integrates modern coastal city life with towering alpine peaks, islands, the Arctic Sea, and the renowned northern light phenomena that characterize this region of Norway.
Even though the race starts outside the city center, athletes and spectators benefit from Bodø’s compact layout: hotels, restaurants, the airport, and train station all conveniently located, facilitating easy logistics and fostering a lively event atmosphere throughout the weekend. Frequent flights connecting Bodø and Oslo provide efficient access from major European hubs, ensuring that international teams and fans can easily participate.
Activities in Bodø
Outside the race, the area presents experiences that truly embody Northern Norway:
• Saltstraumen, known as the world’s strongest tidal current, where visitors can embark on sea safaris, wildlife tours, and exhilarating water excursions.
• Rampen Via Ferrata, one of the most picturesque vertical adventures in Norway.
• Kjerringøy, a historic coastal village celebrated for its trading post and cultural significance.
• Bodø’s dynamic cultural offering, encompassing galleries, music venues, and urban cafés and eateries.
Where to stay
The official partner hotel is Quality Hotel Ramsalt, situated along the waterfront with convenient access to both the city center and race venues. Various hotels within Bodø’s compact downtown provide an array of services and price points, allowing athletes and fans to remain close to the action.
Dining options
Bodø’s culinary scene merges northern Norwegian ingredients with global influences. Key highlights include:
• Bjørk, famous for its grilled dried cod from Værøy.
• Piccadilly, the city’s oldest pub and a cultural icon.
• Nabolaget, a cozy food and wine bar praised for its high-quality Nordic dishes.
• Dama Di, a local favorite for concerts, casual drinks, and a laid-back nightlife.
Marcialonga Bodø in the context of the Pro Tour
As Event 11 of Season XVII, Marcialonga Bodø is positioned at a critical point in the calendar, occurring just one week after Birkebeinerrennet and leading into the demanding northern double at Reistadløpet and the Grand Finale Summit 2 Senja.
With its challenging terrain and unpredictable conditions, this Arctic race may play a pivotal role in the contest for the Yellow, Green, Pink, and Climb bibs.
Stay tuned for updates
Full live coverage of Marcialonga Bodø will be available on the streaming platform SC Play, featuring 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 — Jizerská 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-Bardu, Norway, 35 km.
- Event 13: March 29, 2026 — Grand Finale Summit 2 Senja — Bardufoss-Finspong, Norway, 60 km.
For updates and detailed information about the Ski Classics Pro Tour, visit skiclassics.com.
Interested in ski classics and long-distance skiing? Click HERE to read more.
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