Quick guide for first-time participants

Read your start certificate carefully – it contains important information. And make sure you begin your journey to the start in plenty of time, so you don’t have to rush. Once you’ve done that, you can mostly follow the flow of the crowd. Along the way, you’ll be supported by information boards, announcements from speaker, clear signage, experienced participants, and thousands of helpful functionaries. If you’d still like an overview of what to expect, here’s a quick guide.

This guide primarily applies to Vasaloppet 30, Öppet Spår Sunday, Öppet Spår Monday 30, Öppet Spår Monday 45, Öppet Spår Monday 90, Vasaloppet 45, Tjejvasan, and Vasaloppet.

Start area. The start area is a hive of activity. Loudspeakers play music, interviews, information and helpful advice. There are large information boards, some of which display Vasaloppet.TV. If you haven’t yet collected your number bib envelope, start by doing so at the race office. After that, you can warm up by a fire, grab something to eat, and maybe make one last toilet visit.

Packing. As the start approaches, pack your change-of-clothes bag and protect the contents from moisture. Then leave the bag at the correct truck, based on your start number. If you want to keep your outer clothing on until the start, make sure to bring the bag intended for outerwear. Other sensible items to carry in a waist belt or pockets include: a mobile phone, extra socks, an extra hat, snacks, and a headlamp (if you think you’ll still be on the course after 17:00).

Start pen. The announcer will let you know when your start group can enter the start pen. After that, there may be a warm-up and a countdown before your race begins. If you have a bag for outerwear, tie it closed and place it in the designated collection area (see signage) well in advance.

The start. It can be crowded at the start of the race, so take it easy and show consideration – the field will soon spread out. Keep to the right and overtake on the left. Remember to keep your distance on descents and don’t stop in the middle of the track. Large blue signs along the route show how many kilometres remain to Mora and to the next Vasaloppet checkpoint.

Vasaloppet checkpoints. Here you can refuel with blueberry soup, sports drink, water, vegetarian broth, buns, coffee and other energy.
You can also get help with new grip wax and borrow equipment if something breaks (in limited quantities). All Vasaloppet checkpoints have medical staff and portable toilets.

The final stretch. If you start feeling tired and the kilometre signs seem further and further apart, take it easy at the checkpoints and make sure to top up on energy and, if needed, ski wax. A cheer at each kilometre sign is a fun trick to keep yourself and others motivated. But if you’re feeling very tired or unwell, don’t hesitate to ask functionaries or medical staff for help!

The finish. Once you’ve passed through the classic finish line portal (CONGRATULATIONS!), keep moving forward and you’ll pass the ski deposit, chip removal and medal distribution before reaching Mora-Nisse’s Square where you can get some energy and warm yourself by a fire. From there, it’s a short walk to the buses that take you to the showers and your change of clothes at Prästholmen, about five minutes away.

Celebration. After showering and changing, take the bus back to the finish area to collect your skis. Remember to pick up your diploma as well; it’s free and makes a great keepsake. Feel free to look around Mora, take photos, maybe eat or have a coffee, and watch other participants finish. If you need to drive home, make sure you are well rested before getting behind the wheel.

For more detailed information, visit the page for your specific race here at vasaloppet.se. or continue to explore our guides and tips.

Vasaloppet’s Winter Week 2026 – cross country skiing

• Friday, February 20, Vasaloppet 30, start Oxberg, 30 km
• Saturday, February 21, Tjejvasan, start Oxberg, 30 km
• Sunday, February 22, Öppet Spår Sunday, start Sälen, 90 km FULLY BOOKED
• Sunday, February 22, Ungdomsvasan, start Eldris, 9 km, start Hökberg, 19 km
• Monday, February 23, Öppet Spår Monday 90, freestyle, start Sälen, 90 km
• Monday, February 23, Öppet Spår Monday 45, freestyle, start Oxberg, 45 km
• Monday, February 23, Öppet Spår Monday 30, freestyle, start Oxberg, 30 km
• Tuesday, February 24, Vasaloppet 45, start Oxberg, 45 km
• Friday, February 27, Stafettvasan, ski relay, five sections, start Sälen, 90 km
• Friday, February 27, Nattvasan 30, individually or two-person teams, freestyle,
  start Oxberg, 30 km
• Friday, February 27, Nattvasan 45, individually or two-person teams, freestyle,
  start Oxberg, 45 km
• Friday, February 27, Nattvasan 90, individually or two-person teams, freestyle,
  start Sälen, 90 km
• Saturday, February 28, Vasaloppet 10, freestyle, start Eldris, 9 km
• Sunday, March 1, The 102nd Vasaloppet, start Sälen, 90 km