🎿🏅 Birkebeiner: A cult marathon through the eyes of a first-time participant
The Birkebeinerrennet, or 'Birkebeiner' as it's fondly known, is an incredible cross-country skiing marathon that is absolutely not to be missed! It's a real Norwegian cult classic. Every year, thousands of participants from all over the world come here to conquer the legendary 54 km trail from Rena to Lillehammer. In recent years, the Birkebeinerrennet has seen a fantastic surge in popularity, with loads of newbies diving in and taking on the challenge!
We have prepared a detailed guide for first-timers: we will tell you everything you need to know about how to prepare, register, what to take with you and what to pay attention to on the day of the race. All information is based on the personal experience of participants and discussions on the Birken.no, Reddit and TripAdvisor forums.
📅 What is Birkebeinerrennet and why is it so popular?
The Birkebeinerrennet is an annual event that has been held every year since 1206 – that's over 700 years of tradition! Get ready for an amazing adventure, everyone! To complete the course, you'll need to carry a 3.5 kg backpack, which symbolises the weight of a child rescued by Birkebeiner warriors in medieval Norway.
● Route length: 54 km
● Start: Rena
● Finish: Lillehammer
● Number of participants: approximately 16,000 people annually
🎯 Date of the next marathon: 21 March 2026
🎯 Registration opens: 15 September 2025 (official website birken.no)
✅ How to register and how much does it cost?
- You can sign up in September, but only if there's space left.
- The fee to take part is about 1,500 NOK if you sign up early, but it'll be up to 2,000 NOK if you sign up closer to the start.
- You can register at birken.no.
🎯 Tip:
Register as soon as registration opens, as places fill up very quickly (usually within 2–3 weeks).
📌 Participant review on Reddit:
"I filled out the form in the first few hours of registration opening. Last year, all spots were gone in literally a week!"
🎒 What is important to know about the mandatory backpack?
Birken is the only ski race where the mandatory backpack weight is strictly regulated — 3.5 kg.
● What to put in your backpack:
○ Spare clothing (thermal underwear, sweater, socks)
○ Food and drinks (energy bars, gels, thermos)
○ Mini first aid kit and power bank for your phone
🎯 Tip:
Weight is checked before the start and at the finish line, with a minimum penalty of 15 minutes added to the final time for non-compliance.
⏳ How can a beginner prepare for the Birken?
Preparation is the key to a successful finish. Here are some basic recommendations:
● Physical preparation:
Start training 3–6 months before the race, gradually increasing the distance you ski.
● Technique:
Take a few lessons with an instructor, especially if you are new to cross-country skiing.
● Equipment:
Use well-fitting cross-country skis, boots and poles. Test your clothing and backpack in advance.
🎯 Tip
Try participating in training races (such as the 28 km HalvBirken) to get used to the format.
📌 Review from TripAdvisor:
"I did the HalvBirken before the main Birken. I highly recommend it to understand your capabilities and prepare."
🗺️ What to expect on race day? Personal experience
Start (Rena):
● It is best to plan your arrival in advance, at least 1 hour before the start.
● The backpack check goes quickly if everything is ready in advance.
Distance:
● 54 km of trails with several steep climbs and fast descents.
● 5 checkpoints with food and hot drinks (energy bars, broth, sports drinks).
Finish (Lillehammer):
● A festive atmosphere and awards ceremony.
● Commemorative medals for all finishers.
🎯 Advice from a first-time participant:
Pace yourself, drink and eat at every refreshment station. Don't start the race too fast!
📌 Personal feedback from a participant on Birken.no:
"At first, I thought the backpack would get in the way, but when it's properly fitted, you don't even feel it. The atmosphere is simply amazing!"
💰 Approximate Budget for Participation
| Expense Item | Cost (NOK) |
|---|---|
| Registration | 1 500–2 000 |
| Accommodation (1–2 nights) | 1 500–3 000 |
| Transport (train/bus) | 500–1 000 |
| Equipment (if you don’t have your own) | 1 500–3 000 (rental or purchase) |
| Food and expenses on site | 500–1 000 |
| Total | ~5 500–10 000 |
🎽 Top tips for beginners: in brief
● Register as soon as registration opens.
● Prepare in advance and start training several months in advance.
● Train with the mandatory backpack weight (3.5 kg).
● Test all your equipment in advance (clothing, skis, backpack).
● Use intermediate starts (HalvBirken) for training.
● Book accommodation and transport in advance (2–3 months before the race).
📸 Best photo opportunities at Birken
● The starting area in Rene with thousands of participants.
● Panoramic views of the track (mountains and forest).
● Emotions at the finish line in Lillehammer with a medal in your hands.
Birken is not just a marathon, it's an incredible event that brings together thousands of people who are united in their passion. You've never participated in such races before? That's absolutely fine! Just getting to the finish line is an amazing achievement and will make you feel so proud.
💬 Share your experience!
Have you already participated in Birken or are you planning to make your debut? We can't wait to hear all about your experiences, your tips and your amazing life hacks!
The most useful tips from our readers will be featured in future articles in our Norway catalogue!
