01.07.26 Text: Birken Photo: Justaz Juozaitis

This race is for those who are curious about gravel, want a new type of Birken experience, or are looking for a varied and inspiring cycling challenge. You will get long gravel roads, a true mountain feel, climbs, descents and Birken atmosphere – without the most technical trail sections.

What is gravel?

Gravel is a cycling discipline that combines elements from road cycling and mountain biking. Instead of asphalt or technical trails, gravel is primarily about riding on gravel roads, forest roads, cart tracks and other varied surfaces.

For many, gravel is just as much about the experience as it is about speed. You get out onto quieter roads, experience nature up close and can enjoy long rides in varied terrain. It has a lower technical threshold than traditional mountain biking, but still offers challenges, a sense of achievement and a great training effect.

GravelBirken 100 brings the best of gravel into Birken terrain: long gravel sections, mountains, mountain farm landscapes, views and a route that offers both flow and resistance along the way.

The route

GravelBirken 100 is 110.4 kilometres long and has 1,729 metres of elevation gain. The route follows hilly terrain and offers varied surfaces – from hard-packed gravel and rougher gravel to some asphalt and cart tracks.

The route is less technical than Birkebeinerrittet, but that does not mean it is easy. You will get a proper cycling challenge, with tough climbs, fast descents and sections that require both concentration and power in your legs.

At the same time, the entire route is fully rideable, which makes GravelBirken 100 a great introduction to gravel for those who want to try gravel riding in Birken terrain.

The start is at Birkebeinerstadion in Lillehammer, before the route heads straight onto Sjøsetervegen. From there, it continues on gravel roads up towards Natrudstilen, past the ski arena and down past Sjusjøen Huskytours.

The route then continues down towards Bleka and across to Grimstilen, before climbing again towards Hamarsæterhøgda. From there, it continues to Bringbu, where the route eventually follows parts of the Birkebeinerrittet course towards the finish.

On the way towards Lillehammer, participants pass places such as Persbu, Kvarstadsætra, Rosinbakkene, Elgåsen, Kroksjøen and Sjusjøen, before the final section down towards the finish.

Along the way, you will experience spectacular nature, mountain farms, cabin areas, mountain views and atmosphere along the route.

Who is GravelBirken 100 for?

GravelBirken 100 is for those who enjoy long rides, want to try gravel or are looking for a new type of Birken experience.

You do not need to be an expert in technical mountain biking, but you should be prepared for a long day on the bike, hilly terrain and varied surfaces. In return, you get a great nature experience, Birken atmosphere and a strong sense of achievement along the way.

The distance is well suited for those who want a less technical cycling experience than Birkebeinerrittet, but still want mountains, climbs, flow and the feeling of completing a proper challenge.

Key facts about GravelBirken 100

• GravelBirken 100 is part of SykkelBirken.
• The distance is 110.4 kilometres and has 1,729 metres of elevation gain.
• The surface consists of hard-packed gravel, rougher gravel, some asphalt and cart tracks.
• Recommended tyre width is 40 mm or wider.
• There are four food and drink stations along the route.
• Anyone who is 17 years old by 31 December 2026 can take part.
• GravelBirken is included in Birkebeinertrippelen, Årets Birkebeiner, unranked.

Participants in GravelBirken 100 will ride together with other Birkebeinere along the route. We encourage everyone to show consideration, communicate well on the course and help ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.

Choose a medal or donation

In 2026, GravelBirken introduces a new choice when registering. You can decide whether you would like to receive a finisher medal, or whether you would rather donate the value of the medal to charitable work through Right To Play.

As part of our efforts to reduce unnecessary consumption, this gives you the opportunity to make a small choice that can both reduce resource use and contribute to something bigger.