Norway is an incredible destination for gravel bikepacking races, offering a mix of rugged landscapes, top-tier infrastructure, and a deep cycling culture that makes it one of the best places in the world for endurance events. The country’s vast network of well-maintained gravel roads cuts through breathtaking fjords, towering mountains, and endless forests, providing riders with stunning scenery at every turn. Remote wilderness routes ensure a true sense of adventure, where cyclists can ride for hours without seeing a car. The Midnight Sun in the north allows for 24-hour racing in summer, while the changing seasons bring dramatic shifts in landscape and riding conditions.
Beyond its natural beauty, Norway’s infrastructure supports long-distance cycling like few other places. The extensive network of gravel and forest roads, originally built for farming and forestry, offers smooth yet challenging routes for riders seeking endurance tests. Safety is also a major advantage, as traffic on these rural roads is minimal and Norwegian drivers are generally respectful of cyclists. The country’s “Right to Roam” (Allemannsretten) allows for wild camping, making self-supported racing and bikepacking easier. Norway’s mountain huts, managed by the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT), also provide shelter for multi-day adventures, creating a perfect blend of challenge and accessibility.
Racing in Norway is not for the faint-hearted. The terrain is relentless, with long and steep climbs that can rival the Alps, while the unpredictable weather adds another layer of difficulty. A bright summer morning can quickly turn into heavy rain or even snow in higher altitudes, demanding resilience and adaptability from riders. The remoteness of many routes means cyclists must be highly self-sufficient, making Norwegian gravel races some of the toughest and most rewarding.
Here’s a list of the best bikepacking races for 2025! Whether you’re looking for an extreme endurance test, breathtaking scenery, or a new adventure, these events offer some of the most exciting terrain to ride a bike.
1. The Bright Midnight
Photo Credit: Brightnight.cc
Date: July 6, 2025
Location: Tolga, Norway
Distance: 1,100 kilometers
Elevation Gain: 20,000 meters
Description:
The Bright Midnight is a self-supported bikepacking adventure that starts and finishes in the quaint mountain village of Tolga. The route traverses the Norwegian highlands, featuring endless gravel roads connecting summer farms, scenic fjords, challenging mountain passes, and national parks. Participants will experience the magic of Norway’s landscapes under the never-setting sun.
Registration:
Travel and Accommodation:
Tolga is accessible from Oslo by train. Participants can check train options at www.entur.no. Accommodation options in Tolga range from shared spaces to camping facilities. It’s advisable to arrange lodging in advance, as local options may not be listed on major booking platforms.
What to Expect:
Riders should prepare for a mix of tarmac and gravel roads, with some sections being rocky. A gravel bike with 40mm tires is recommended. While the route offers a balanced mix of environments, careful planning is essential, especially in remote areas. Participants must have valid insurance covering liability, accidents, and health emergencies.
2. Mother North
Photo credit: Mother-North.com
Date: August 3, 2025
Location: Lillehammer, Norway
Distance: 1,000 kilometers
Elevation Gain: 16,000 meters
Description:
Mother North offers an unsupported bikepacking adventure through some of Norway’s most breathtaking landscapes. The journey combines the freedom of cycling with the awe-inspiring beauty of the Norwegian wilderness, traversing remote trails and ancient forests. Participants will experience the magic of long days, pedalling through challenging and ever-changing scenery.
Registration:
Travel and Accommodation:
Lillehammer is easily reachable from Oslo by train or bus. Participants can check options at www.vy.no. Accommodation details and recommendations are provided upon registration.
What to Expect:
The route offers a mix of terrains, from small Norwegian villages in the highlands to tarmac and gravel roads crossing fjords. Participants should be prepared for remote areas and plan their adventure carefully. Mandatory insurance covering liability, accidents, and health emergencies is required.
3. NorthEast Gravel
Photo credit: North East Gravel
Date: August 8-14, 2025
Location: Innlandet, Norway
Distance: 398 kilometers
Description:
NorthEast Gravel is a multi-day gravel bikepacking event that takes participants through the World Heritage site of Røros and the mountain valleys of Nord-Østerdal. Limited to 200 participants, this event offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Registration:
Travel and Accommodation:
The event starts at the Town Hall in Tynset. Participants are provided with GPS course details, infrastructure support, hotel offers, power banks, and power bars. A get-together party is scheduled for August 7.
What to Expect:
Riders will traverse a 398-kilometer route through historic and scenic areas. The event includes support such as mechanical assistance at rest stops and nutrition stations. Participants will also receive NorthEast Gravel socks and have the opportunity to purchase a subsidized cycling jersey.
https://www.nordostgravel.no/en
4. Offroad Finnmark
Photo Credit: Offroad Finnmark
Date: 28/7-2025 – 2/8-2025
Location: Finnmark, Norway
Distances:
Price: Please see registration
Description:
Offroad Finnmark is an annual off-road mountain bike race that challenges participants to navigate across Finnmark’s mountain plateau using GPS. The event offers three race categories: OF700, OF300, and OF150, catering to various levels of endurance and skill.
Registration:
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