Birken AKTIV against cancer 7,5 km
A shorter course – with the same magical Birken feeling
The Birken AKTIV Against Cancer 7.5 km run is perfect for those who want to experience the atmosphere, sense of achievement, and community spirit – all in a shorter, very runnable course. Enjoy a great workout in beautiful surroundings while supporting a meaningful cause: part of the entry fee goes to AKTIV Against Cancer, an organization working to make physical activity part of cancer treatment.
The race starts at Birkebeineren Ski Stadium and follows an easy course with gentle terrain and some downhill sections, before finishing at Håkons Hall – just like the longer Birken races.
Ideal for testing your running form, sharing the experience with friends, or simply soaking up that magical Birken vibe!
Ages 13–15 can participate without timing.
Ages 16 and up: Optional timing!
(Age as of December 31, 2026)
AKTIV against cancer 7,5 km
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Track
The race starts at the Birkebeiner ski stadium – sharing the same start and opening section as the other races. The first 400 meters are on asphalt before the course turns left, goes under the bridge, and continues on gravel behind the hall near the dog training area. It then climbs through the ski play area and enters the lighted trail (lysløypa), which has some uneven terrain, until it reaches Birkebeinervegen.
The course follows the left side of Birkebeinervegen for about 800 meters – outside the fence, not in the road. At the end of the road, it transitions onto a narrow, rocky trail and crosses the canal. A water station is located just before this turn.
After crossing the canal, the trail continues straight ahead over Mesna River via wooden footbridges – be careful, they may be slippery when wet. The course then joins the Maihaugen trail, which includes some steep hills and short, soft or rocky sections, before merging into the Tverrløypa behind Maihaugen.
Tverrløypa is flat and easy to run, but crosses two small roads in Nybu – watch out for traffic. From the top of Kleivbakken, the trail descends diagonally toward the finish.
The final 4 km follow the same route as the Birkebeinerløpet. There is some uneven terrain down toward Maihaugen, but the final stretch is on good trail. 500 meters before the finish, the route turns left around the football field and heads down to the finish area south of Håkons Hall.
