Norwegian Foot March and Trail Run

20221223
2026-04-18

Apr 18, 2026 at 9:00 AM

4761 Hamline Ave N

Arden Hills MN, 55112

USA

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Entry Fee $30
(Lowest or Early Registration)

Entry Fee 2 $50
(Highest or Late Registration)

Prize Money: no

Distance(s):

Type: Trail

Percent of the course on un-paved trails: 90%

First Year of the Event: 2025

Description:

The Norwegian Foot March is an annual event hosted by the University of Minnesota—Golden Gopher Battalion. For the third year, it is adding a 30K and 5K Trail Run option open to all Minnesota military families, Junior and Senior ROTC programs, and the general public. The event’s proceeds will benefit the AUSA Troops of Tomorrow initiative and military programs throughout Minnesota.

History of the Norwegian Foot March

The Norwegian Foot March was first held in 1915 as a test of strength and endurance for members of the Norwegian military and to expose new soldiers to the conditions they could expect in the field. Those who completed a 30km distance with a backpack load of 11kg within 4.5 hours earned the Marsjmerket, the Norwegian Armed Forces Marching Badge. On the day after the event, the soldiers should be able to participate in regular duties fully. Over the last several years, the event has become popular among U.S. military units that use the march as an opportunity to support charitable causes.