As it embarks on its second year on the Pro Tour circuit, the 50-kilometer classic race has rapidly established itself as one of the most unique and talked-about events in long-distance skiing.
Once held as a Challengers event, Marcialonga Bodø transitioned to the Pro Tour last season. It is distinctive for its blend of accessibility, breathtaking terrain, and the remarkable light and ambiance found just north of the Arctic Circle.
A new course crafted for reliability and challenge
For 2026, the race introduces an updated course to guarantee consistent snow conditions and enhance competitive flow. Elite skiers will kick off at Bestemorenga Ski Stadium, complete two laps around Soløyvannet, and tackle a signature final climb to Junkerfjellet, concluding at one of the Bodø region’s most picturesque viewpoints.
The course profile offers a challenging combination of continuous terrain, featuring frequent undulations, repeated transitions, and a cumulative elevation gain that tests athletes from the start. Though it lacks the massive climbs found in events like Birken, Reistadløpet, or Summit 2 Senja, Marcialonga Bodø remains a formidable race—its difficulty stemming from the relentless up-and-down movements, Arctic conditions, and the pivotal final ascent.
The final ascent to Junkerfjellet – a unique Pro Tour finale
The ascent to Junkerfjellet creates one of the most unique and challenging endings in Ski Classics:
- The climb begins just above 107 meters, near the stadium.
- The route ascends to 283 meters at the peak.
- More than 200 vertical meters are achieved during this stretch.
- The ‘climb’ segment contains two brief downhill sections, introducing tactical choices and variations in rhythm.
Finishing atop the mountain, with views of Bodø and the Norwegian Sea, gives Marcialonga Bodø a distinct identity—an uphill conclusion that is equally scenic and demanding. Competitors will cross the finish line fully exposed to the elements, emphasizing the importance of preparation, pacing, and resilience.
Marcialonga Bodø – Ski Classics Pro Tour Event 11
- Date: Saturday, March 21, 2026
- Location: Bodø, Norway
- Distance: 50km Classic Technique
- Highest Point: 283m
- Elevation Gain: 1334m
- Last Edition Winners: Stina Nilsson (2:26:52.4) and Eirik Sverdrup Augdal (2:09:21.6)
- SC Play: Marcialonga Bodø
Additional details about Marcialonga Bodø can be found HERE
A vibrant setting of sea, mountains, and culture
Bodø, chosen as the European Capital of Culture in 2024, is one of Norway’s rapidly growing cities. The region merges modern coastal city life with steep alpine mountains, islands, the Arctic Sea, and the renowned northern light conditions that characterize this part of Norway.
Although the race now commences outside the city center, competitors and spectators alike can enjoy Bodø’s compact layout: hotels, restaurants, the airport, and train station are all conveniently close, facilitating easy logistics and a vibrant event atmosphere over the weekend. Frequent daily flights connect Bodø to Oslo, ensuring efficient access for international teams and fans.
Activities in Bodø
Beyond the race, the area provides experiences that define Northern Norway:
• Saltstraumen, the world’s strongest tidal current, where visitors can partake in sea safaris, wildlife tours, and thrilling water excursions.
• Rampen Via Ferrata, one of Norway’s most breathtaking vertical adventures.
• Kjerringøy, a historic coastal village famed for its trading post and cultural heritage.
• Bodø’s lively cultural scene, encompassing galleries, music venues, urban cafés, and restaurants.
Where to stay
The official partner hotel is Quality Hotel Ramsalt, situated on the waterfront and providing easy access to both the city center and race venues. Numerous hotels throughout Bodø’s compact area offer a variety of services and price ranges, ensuring convenience for athletes and fans looking to stay close to the action.
Dining options
Bodø’s culinary scene blends northern Norwegian ingredients with global influences. Noteworthy spots include:
• Bjørk, acclaimed for its grilled dried cod from Værøy.
• Piccadilly, the city’s oldest pub and a cultural landmark.
• Nabolaget, a cozy food and wine bar recognized for its high-quality Nordic dishes.
• Dama Di, a local favorite known for concerts, casual drinks, and relaxed nightlife.
Marcialonga Bodø and the Pro Tour
As Event 11 of Season XVII, Marcialonga Bodø holds a critical position in the calendar, occurring just one week after Birkebeinerrennet and preceding the challenging northern double of Reistadløpet and the Grand Finale Summit 2 Senja.
With its rugged terrain and unpredictable conditions, this Arctic race could significantly influence the competition for the Yellow, Green, Pink, and Climb bibs.
Stay updated on the action
Complete 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, 1.5km.
- Event 6: February 1, 2026 – Jizerska 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 Finale Summit 2 Senja – Bardufoss-Finsnes, Norway, 60 km.
For updates and detailed information about the Ski Classics Pro Tour, be sure to visit skiclassics.com.
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