Marcialonga Bodø: A unique event between the city and Arctic nature

The Ski Classics Pro Tour continues its Arctic adventure with Marcialonga Bodø on Saturday, March 21, 2026. As Event 11 of Season XVII, the 50-kilometer classic event brings the Pro Tour back to one of the most unique locations in long-distance skiing: Bodø, Norway, a vibrant city nestled between the sea and the mountains, just north of the Arctic Circle.

Introduced as a Ski Classics Challengers event in 2024 and elevated to the Pro Tour last season, Marcialonga Bodø quickly established itself as a highlight on the calendar.

Now in its second edition at the Pro Tour level, the event combines urban scenery and Arctic wilderness, offering an unparalleled experience for both athletes and spectators.

“This year, we had to move the race to Valnesfjord outside of Bodø. We are looking forward to introducing a race with both urban qualities and the breathtaking Northern Norwegian landscape to the Ski Classics Pro Tour series,” says Jon Lauvland Pettersen, Head of Marketing for Marcialonga Bodø, and adds:

“The center of the race is Rådhusparken in Bodø Centre. This represents a unique opportunity to stage a compact event, virtually negating the need for shuttle buses or any other modes of transport,” says Pettersen.

The organizing committee’s ambition to blend a central location with Arctic landscapes is fully in line with Ski Classics’ vision for the event.

"Ski Classics held its first Pro Tour event in Bodø last season, and it was held in spectacular nature and with true cross-country skiing. Coming winter, we hope it will be on the original course with a start and finish in the city center of Bodø with its 50.000 inhabitants," says Ski Classics Director Oskar Svärd.

Bodø

Unfolding over a challenging course with 1.063 meters of elevation gain, the race starts in downtown Bodø, passes through forests and high viewpoints, and loops back to the heart of the city. The highest point reaches 279 meters, offering panoramic vistas of the Lofoten Islands, Børvasstindan mountains, and even a glimpse of Saltstraumen, the world’s strongest tidal current.

The city of Bodø, the European Capital of Culture 2024, blends modern urban life with raw Arctic nature. With hotels, the airport, and the train station all within walking distance of the start and finish, Marcialonga Bodø creates a festival atmosphere in the city center.

As the Pro Tour moves toward its final part of the season, this Arctic challenge could play a decisive role in the battle for the Yellow and other bib competitions.