Travel and Itinerary
2025 AURORA MARATHON
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21st February
Arrival in Alta
Gargia Lodge
Your journey begins here.
In the outskirts of Alta, on the foot of the mountain plateau Finnmarksvidda you will find Gargia Lodge. Surrounded by untouched nature, a place for those who are searching for a unique experience and exciting adventures year around. Enjoy a calm and peaceful atmosphere, away from the busy city.
At Gargia Lodge we offer traditional accommodation and exciting experiences in nature, both during the winter and the summer.
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22st February
Historical snowmobile tour across Finnmarksvidda
Join us for a ride along Norway’s longest historical postal route. You will be served a home-cooked, warm traditional meal for lunch at Gargia Lodge and learn about the old postal route and the area you will be driving through later on this day. While the route was operated in the 19th century 30 different reindeer herding families got their mail delivered to them along this road. You will get a glimpse of what it used to take to deliver a mail up here in the sometimes-harsh, rough conditions of the arctic. We will take you on journey, following part of the original route between Gargia and Suolovuopmi Mountain Lodge where lunch is included.
This trip gives you an exhilarating way of exploring the arctic scenery just right outside our doorstep. While driving through the magical winter landscape, there is a possibility to see wildlife as well. Once we reach the highest point of the plains you will be impressed by the vast views that Europe’s largest mountain plateau has to offer.
You will share a snowmobile with another passenger, so each of you will get to drive half of the trip. If you want to drive all by yourself you can request this and the cost for single snowmobile is NOK 750.
Approximately 5 hours.
*This trip is not recommended for those who have back problems or for those who are pregnant.
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23st February
Snowshoeing to Orvvos waterfall
Embark on a captivating winter journey through the snow-covered forests of Alta, where the allure of outdoor life in Finnmark beckons. Asyou step onto the trail leading to the frozen wonder of Orvvosfossen waterfall, prepare to be enchanted by the unique natural marvels thatencompass you.
The path winds through a serene winter landscape, with snow-covered trees offering glimpses of the untouched beauty within this snowyrealm. Following this trail for approximately 2 km, you’ll find yourself standing before the majestic frozen Orvvosfossen waterfall. Itscrystalline cascade is a mesmerizing spectacle, where water has turned to ice, harmonizing with the tranquil winter surroundings.
So, fasten your snowshoes, inhale the crisp winter air, and let the captivating wilderness of Alta guide your path as you delve into this frozenwonder.
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24st February
Northern lights adventure with bus
The mystery surrounding the light has given us many myths andlegends over the years. Everything from heroes who lit up thesky to mysterious figures and warnings of danger. The light hasalso been given many names and one of the names the Samiuse for the light is Guovssahas, which means the light that canbe heard.
Alta’s remarkable suitability as a prime location for observing thenorthern lights becomes clear when considering KristianBirkeland’s choice to commence his research at Halddetoppen in1899. It’s worth noting that Birkeland’s pioneering workconnecting the northern lights to electromagnetic storms from thesun cements his legacy as the father of this mesmerizing naturalwonder. The prevailing dry and stable climate in Alta createsoptimal conditions for witnessing the captivating northern lights. During your journey, not only will you engage in the quest for this enchantingphenomenon, but you’ll also immerse yourself in the stunning Arctic nature and untamed wilderness that define the region.
Experience the awe-inspiring Northern Lights in Alta’s pristine Arctic setting, a captivating natural spectacle that will leave you breathless.
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25st February
Dogsleding
Begin your journey in Alta, where a comfortable minibus awaits to transport you to the picturesque Gargia. Upon arrival, you’ll be provided with warm clothing to keep you cozy during this unforgettable experience.
Our experienced guides will greet you and provide thorough training on dog sledding. Once you’re ready, you’ll have your own team of huskies. If there are two guests, you’ll take turns driving halfway along the route.
The huskies will lead you from the pine forest near the mountain lodge up to the stunning Finnmarksvidda plateau, with its vast open landscapes. Feel the synergy between our enthusiastic huskies and yourselves, and embrace the crisp Arctic winter.
After approximately 60 minutes outdoors, retreat to the historic Gargia mountain lodge. Here you can warm up with hot coffee and tea. Our guides will share insights about dog sledding and local history.
We and our furry companions warmly welcome you to this unforgettable adventure!
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26st February
Marathon Day
Running a marathon in the City of the Northern Lights is an unforgettable experience that combines the thrill of a long-distance race with the breathtaking beauty of the Arctic sky. On race day, participants gather in the early evening, prepared for a unique challenge. As the sun sets, the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors, and the elusive aurora borealis begins its dance.
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27st February
Departure
After an exhilarating adventure in the Arctic destination, return home with cherished memories of your experiences, along with a well-deserved marathon medal to commemorate your journey.
IMPORTANT: If necessary for you to have a better experience, the order of activities may be changed during the event.