Translation of the article into English

When winter is at its most beautiful and the cold bites your cheeks, it’s time once again for one of Strömsund Municipality’s most appreciated and truly international events: the Amundsen Mid Scandinavian Sled Dog Race. During a few intense days in February, the region turns into a meeting place for speed, endurance, community, and pure winter joy – with competitors and visitors from all over Europe.

Amundsen Race is far more than just a competition. It’s an event that brings together people, clubs, and businesses, and every year it puts Strömsund firmly on the map as a natural destination for international sled dog sport.

An International Race with Strong Local Roots

Amundsen Race combines top international competition with strong local commitment and a warm, family-like atmosphere where even first-time long-distance mushers feel at home. This year, drivers from 13 different countries are taking part, many of them having travelled thousands of kilometers across Europe to stand on the starting line in Strömsund.

For many, this is not their first visit. On the contrary, several teams return year after year. They are drawn by the well-prepared trails, the professional organization, and the special atmosphere that defines the race. Here, participants from different cultures and backgrounds meet with one shared goal: to challenge themselves together with their amazing dogs in Jämtland’s spectacular winter landscape.

That so many international competitors choose to come back is a clear sign of quality. It’s not just about the race itself, but also about the welcome they receive – from volunteers, along the trails, at checkpoints, and out in the villages.

Dates and Program – What’s Happening During Amundsen Race 2026

Amundsen Race 2026 takes place 20–22 February, with activities starting already the day before.

Thursday, 19 February, 6:45–7:45 PM – Opening Ceremony and Community
The day begins with registration and vet check during the day, followed by the official and atmospheric opening ceremony in Strömsund Church on Thursday evening. The ceremony is open to everyone and is a great opportunity for competitors, volunteers, and local residents to gather ahead of the race weekend.

In a warm and inclusive setting, we officially open the race, bless the participants, and wish them the very best of luck on the trail. Whether you are directly involved in the race or simply a curious visitor, you are very welcome to attend.
More information will be shared on posters and social media closer to race week.

Friday, 20 February – Race Start in Strömsund, 11:00 AM–1:00 PM

Friday offers one of the weekend’s biggest highlights for spectators: the race start at Hembygdsgården in Strömsund, close to the well-known bridge. In a little less than two hours, teams start class by class, and the atmosphere is electric as one dog team after another heads out onto the trail.

This is a perfect chance for the public to get close to the sport, watch the preparations, and cheer on the mushers and their dogs (for safety and race reasons, we kindly ask spectators not to bring their own dogs).

Saturday, 21 February & Sunday, 22 February – The Race in Full Swing

Throughout the weekend, the competition is in full progress. The shorter races are usually decided on Saturday, while the longer distances continue all the way into Sunday. The finish area at Fjällsikten Restaurant in Tåsjö becomes a natural meeting point where spectators, volunteers, and competitors gather as teams arrive after many kilometers on the trail. Keep an eye on Fjällsikten’s Facebook page for information about restaurant opening hours for the public during the race.

An Event That Brings the Whole Municipality Together

Amundsen Race is a great example of what can happen when an entire municipality gets involved. Behind the race stands a large group of sponsors, volunteers, snowmobile clubs, associations, and other local partners who together create a high-quality event.

Sponsors, Volunteers, and Associations – The Backbone of the Race
Our fantastic sponsors – both large and small – support the event financially, provide services on a voluntary basis, or contribute prizes for winners and items for goodie bags. Volunteers staff the start, finish, and checkpoints. Snowmobile clubs from across the municipality do invaluable work, cooperating to prepare a total of 450–500 km of trails ahead of the race. Others help with logistics, services, and spectator areas.

Without this commitment, Amundsen Race simply wouldn’t be possible. Before and during race weekend, accommodation, restaurants, cafés, and shops are filled with visitors. New connections are made, guests return year after year, and a strong sense of pride grows in what we achieve together.

Why Should You Come and Watch?

You absolutely don’t need to be an expert in sled dog racing to enjoy Amundsen Race. There’s plenty for spectators to experience:

Excitement and Energy at the Start
Watching the dogs – full of power and anticipation – explode into action at the start is impressive for both kids and adults. The drivers are focused, the dogs are loud and eager, and the energy spreads instantly to the crowd.

Up-Close with the Sport
At the start, finish, and checkpoints, you get close to the race. You see how drivers work with their dogs, how teams cooperate, and how every detail matters. It’s real, intense, and fascinating. You are very welcome in both Norråker and at Fjällsikten. The only place where we cannot receive spectators is the first checkpoint at Ursvattnet, as there is no parking available there.

A good tip is to visit the road crossing in Lövberga, where the whole village does a fantastic job every year ensuring safe passages. Or gather some friends along the trail in the evening or at night and cheer the teams on – it’s a great experience that gives extra energy and means a lot to the drivers.

A Winter Nature Experience
The trails run through forests, across lakes, and through open winter landscapes. Following the race is also a perfect way to enjoy Strömsund’s nature when it’s at its very best.

An Open Invitation to the Whole Community

Amundsen Race is a celebration for all of Strömsund Municipality. Welcome to the opening ceremony in the church on 19 February, welcome to the start in Strömsund on 20 February – and welcome to be part of the winter festival that continues to put Strömsund on the map.

See you along the trail! 🐾❄️

Click here for an approximate timetable (based on previous races) after the start: Time Table Amundsen Race