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Winter event · Innlandet
Thousands of skiers race 54 km over the mountain from Rena to Lillehammer.
Birkebeinerrennet is one of the world’s best-known ski marathons: a 54 km classic race across the mountain from Rena to the Olympic ski stadium in Lillehammer, commemorating the 1206 rescue of the infant prince Håkon. Thousands of amateurs follow the elite field, and the finish area is a party all afternoon.
Why it is a winter thing: A one-day race over the mountain that is only possible on late-winter snow.
One Saturday in mid-March. The 2026 race was held on 14 March; the next date is published by the organiser.
Free spectating at the stadium as the elite and then the amateurs come in.
Birken
price: ask provider
Entries open months ahead and the popular starts fill.
Birkenbook ahead
price: ask provider
Prices are indicative, from the season shown, and change every year. Confirm with the provider before you book.
Accommodation around Lillehammer and Sjusjøen sells out for race weekend. Book as soon as the date is announced.
Town hotelMountain cabinApartment
Christmas, the winter holiday (week 8) and Easter book out months ahead. How cabin rental works →
Spectators stand still in the cold for a long time; racers cross exposed mountain and need windproof clothing.
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A snow-sure plateau with hundreds of kilometres of groomed tracks.