GravelBirken: Building on Success – Capacity Doubled

Gravel cycling continues to grow in Norway, and after a breakthrough year, GravelBirken 2026 is taking the next step. In 2025, Gravel 100 and Gravel 200 were introduced for the first time – and the response was immediate: both races sold out.

For 2026, capacity has been doubled to 800 entries, and already half of the spots have been filled.

Last year marked the beginning of Birken’s gravel initiative. With full start fields and strong feedback from participants, there is no doubt: gravel has found its place within the Birken universe.

– This is a development we strongly believe in. Gravel offers a unique combination of nature, achievement and flow, says project manager Vebjørn Rønning.

As part of the SykkelBirken family, GravelBirken builds on a strong tradition while appealing to a new generation of cyclists.

What’s new in 2026
More entries: Capacity is doubled to 800 participants (with half already sold).

Later start times: Starts are scheduled slightly later than last year for an improved experience throughout the day.

Upgraded start arena: The start area will be improved to ensure better flow, logistics and atmosphere.

The weather left its mark on GravelBirken 2025, but the mood and sense of community among the riders stayed high throughout the race.

The Courses – Familiar, Yet Improved

GravelBirken 100:
A tough and inspiring challenge for riders who want to experience gravel riding in true Birken terrain. The course remains largely the same as last year, with the same great flow and nature experience that many riders already got a taste of in 2025.

GravelBirken 200:
For those looking to test their endurance and push their limits. The route is also familiar from last year, but with a few adjustments:

A new section across Hafjelltoppen with spectacular views
An extraordinary feed station at Mosetertoppen

These additions provide an even greater nature experience and extra energy along the way.

– We are proud to be part of GravelBirken 2026 as an extraordinary feed station at Mosetertoppen Ski Stadium. The feed station will be set up right outside our outdoor serving area, creating a great atmosphere as the riders pass through. Here, participants can refuel with energy – and maybe take a short break if they are not racing against the clock. We are looking forward to welcoming everyone!, says Espen Harald Bjerke, Marketing Manager at Mosetertoppen Hafjell AS.

Spectacular views from Hafjelltoppen and an extra feed station at Mosetertoppen are among the new features on GravelBirken 200 in 2026. Photo: Vegard Breie

Elite Classes on GravelBirken 200
Separate elite classes for women and men will be introduced on GravelBirken 200. Prize money will be awarded to the top three riders in each category.

This strengthens the competitive aspect of the race while still maintaining its strong inclusive spirit.

Choose a medal or make a donation
For 2026, GravelBirken introduces a new choice during registration. Participants can decide whether they would like to receive a finisher medal, or instead donate the value of the medal to charitable work through Right To Play.

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

Ready to secure your spot? Interest is already high, and all signs point to GravelBirken 2026 filling up quickly. If you want to be part of the experience, it’s smart to sign up early.