SkiBirken – set your goal for the winter
Published 19 October 2026
After-work ski sessions. Long outings at the weekend. Coffee breaks along the way. With SkiBirken to aim for, you’ll have extra motivation to get out on the trails this winter – and a whole season to prepare.
Could 2027 be the year you take on your first ski race? Or perhaps you’d like to get your friends together and make Birken a shared goal? Whether you’re aiming for a fast time or simply want to cross the finish line, there’s plenty to look forward to – both as you prepare and on race day.
Find your race
Do you prefer classic or skate? Would you like to ski all the way from Rena to Lillehammer, or does a shorter distance appeal to you? SkiBirken offers several options for different ages and ambitions.
Friday 19 March
SkøyteBirken
53 km freestyle from Rena to Lillehammer.
TurBirken
53 km from Rena to Lillehammer.
StafettBirken
A four-leg relay at Birkebeineren Ski Stadium: 3 × 4.6 km and 1 × 1.1 km.
Saturday 20 March
Birkebeinerrennet
53 km classic technique from Rena to Lillehammer.
SkiBirken 28 km
28 km classic technique from Sjusjøen to Lillehammer.
Sunday 21 March
UngdomsBirken
16.5 km classic technique from Sjusjøen to Lillehammer.
BarneBirken
Skiing fun for the youngest participants in Rena and Lillehammer.
New for 2027: A lighter backpack
The backpack has been a central part of Birkebeinerrennet since the first race in 1932. In 2027, the minimum weight will be reduced from 3.5 to 2 kg, reflecting advances in clothing, backpacks and safety equipment.
The perfect way to kick off Easter
SkiBirken 2027 takes place over Palm Sunday weekend. After a winter of preparation, start your Easter holiday with the mountains between Rena and Lillehammer, cheers along the course and the feeling of crossing the finish line.
And what better way to enjoy the Easter break than with your big skiing goal achieved?
The 2027 Birken beanie – ready for SkiBirken! Order yours for just NOK 249 when you register, and collect it with your race bib.