Marcialonga of Fiemme and Fassa

The queen of cross-country skiing

The Marcialonga of Fiemme and Fassa is Italy's most renowned and popular long-distance cross-country ski race. Every year on the last Sunday of January, it transforms the Fiemme and Fassa Valleys, in the heart of the Trentino Dolomites, into an international stage for Nordic skiing. The race is held in classic technique over a full 70-kilometer course, starting in Moena and finishing in Cavalese, after passing through Canazei and the many villages that dot the two valleys.

The course and distances

The main route covers 70 km with approximately 1,030 meters of elevation gain, culminating in the famous final climb of the Mur de la Stria, the steep ramp leading to the finish line in Cavalese. Those who prefer a shorter challenge can sign up for the Marcialonga Light, covering 45 kilometers with about 624 meters of elevation gain. The event is part of the prestigious Visma Ski Classics and Worldloppet circuits, which bring the world's best long-distance specialists to the start line alongside thousands of amateurs.

A popular event in the Dolomites

With around seven thousand participants and over fifteen hundred volunteers, the Marcialonga is much more than just a race: it is a collective celebration that involves the entire community of the Municipality of Cavalese and the Fiemme and Fassa valleys, in the Province of Trento (Trentino-Alto Adige). Along the route, local residents cheer on the skiers with stadium-like enthusiasm, while the atmosphere is further enlivened by side events and parties throughout the weekend.

The Marcialonga weekend

The main race is the centerpiece of an entire weekend of festivities: the Marcialonga Story, a re-enactment of 1970s cross-country skiing from Pozza di Fassa to Canazei; the MiniMarcialonga for children; the Marcialonga Young; the Marcialonga Baby; and the Marcialonga Stars charity event. The January long-distance race is also part of the so-called "Marcialonga triptych," which throughout the year also includes cycling and running versions held in the same stunning Dolomite scenery.

History and tradition

Born in 1971, modeled after the great Scandinavian long-distance races, the Marcialonga has grown into a symbol of Trentino sport and a benchmark on the international cross-country calendar. Its combination of Dolomite landscapes, local tradition, and high-level competition makes it an unmissable event for snow and mountain lovers.