The Ski Classics Challengers events, Dachsteinlauf and Craft Ski Marathon, will take place in one month. The long-distance ski races in classic technique are scheduled for January 11, 2026, in Ramsau am Dachstein, Austria, and in Orsa Grönklitt, Sweden.
Dachsteinlauf
Dachsteinlauf joins the Ski Classics Challengers circuit with a 40km long-distance race in classic technique, taking place in Ramsau am Dachstein, Austria.
From January 9 to 11, 2026, Ramsau am Dachstein will once again transform into a paradise for all cross-country skiing enthusiasts. The Dachsteinlauf welcomes all skill levels — from ambitious professionals and passionate recreational skiers to nature lovers — offering both classic and skating races, including the popular Dachstein Genusslauf.
Beyond the competitions, a colorful supporting program with kids’ races, a culinary pleasure race, and various side events creates a vibrant celebration of skiing and outdoor activity.
Building on this strong tradition and festive spirit, the 40km classic race became part of the Ski Classics Challengers circuit, starting with the upcoming edition on January 11, 2026.
The Dachsteinlauf is one of Austria’s most traditional and popular cross-country skiing events. Every January, the Ramsau Plateau becomes a stage for mass participation skiing. In 2026, skiers can enjoy the stunning scenery of Ramsau am Dachstein on the 40km main course or choose the 10km distance, which is also offered as a team format.
The Local Organizing Committee (LOC) is pleased to join the Ski Classics Challengers circuit:
“By joining the Ski Classics Challengers, the Dachsteinlauf aims to give even more athletes the opportunity to experience the full joy of cross-country skiing on perfectly groomed trails throughout the entire Ramsau at the foot of the Dachstein.”
Dachsteinlauf – Ski Classics Challengers Event
- Date: January 11, 2026
- Location: Ramsau am Dachstein
- Country: Austria
- Race distance: 40km
- Technique: Classic
- Website: Dachsteinlauf
- Facebook: Dachsteinlauf
- Instagram: Dachsteinlauf
- Registration: Dachsteinlauf
More information about the event can be found HERE
Craft Ski Marathon
For many Swedish skiers, the Craft Ski Marathon marks the start of the race season, taking place at the beginning of January.
The event attracts 800–900 skiers every year, with both recreational and professional participants on the start line.
For the 2025/2026 season, the event takes place on Sunday, January 11. The Ski Classics Challengers race is 42km long in classic technique. For those who prefer a shorter challenge, a 21km option is also available.
The start and finish are located at the Grönklitt ski metropolis, just 10km from Mora — the iconic finish of Vasaloppet.
Craft Ski Marathon – Ski Classics Challengers Event
- Date: January 11, 2026
- Location: Orsa Grönklitt
- Country: Sweden
- Race distance: 42km
- Technique: Classic
- Website: Craft Ski Marathon
- Facebook: Craft Ski Marathon
- Instagram: Craft Ski Marathon
- Registration: Craft Ski Marathon
More information about the event can be found HERE
As Dachsteinlauf (40km classic) and Craft Ski Marathon (42km classic) are Ski Classics Challengers events, Pro Team-registered athletes can collect points for the Ski Classics Champion and Youth competitions in their respective genders.
A list of Ski Classics Challengers events with confirmed dates for the season 2025/2026 can be found at Ski Classics. The list is updated continuously with new events.
Everyone participating in Ski Classics, Pro Tour, or Challengers events, as well as professional and recreational skiers, can connect their profile to Ski Classics’ results database, MyPages.
MyPages can be connected for free. In the profile, you can view your Ski Classics event results, collect pins, print diplomas, and analyze your results with friends in the SC ranking system. In your profile, you collect points according to your performance and are rewarded with pins and diplomas.
One of the central features of MyPages is that you get your global SC ranking. The SC Ranking is a live-updated international ranking that is unique for combining women and men, professional and recreational skiers, in a single list.
As a member of ProXCskiing.com, you get full access to all content on the site. Also, live streaming of Ski Classics events with English commentaries is available.
When you become part of one of the World’s leading XC ski communities, you will receive many exclusive offers all year round.
Are you interested in Ski Classics and long-distance skiing? Click HERE and read more about it.
Author: Leandro Lutz
Top Photo: Michaels Simonlehner
