About This Race
A five-stage journey across Swedish Lapland's Arctic wilderness, covering snowfields, frozen lakes, and tundra from Gällivare to Jokkmokk. Runners face extreme cold and limited daylight while carrying all necessary equipment through Europe's last remaining wilderness area.
A five-stage journey across Swedish Lapland's Arctic wilderness, covering snowfields, frozen lakes, and tundra from Gällivare to Jokkmokk. Runners face extreme cold and limited daylight while carrying all necessary equipment through Europe's last remaining wilderness area.
Elevation Profile
The course gains 895m over 230km, with the steepest section between km 45–km 46.
Course Map
Route shown is approximate and for illustration purposes.
Practical Info
Extreme cold with daytime temperatures ranging from -5°C to -40°C, evening temperatures from -10°C to -40°C, with only 8 hours of daylight
LLA Luleå Airport
Race accommodation provided in teepee tents and remote huts during the event; additional hotel stays not included in entry fee
- sleeping bag
- specialist cold weather clothing
- medical supplies
- food for 5 days
- mandatory safety equipment
Best For
Notable Features
The Ice Ultra stands as one of the world's most extreme foot races, taking place entirely within the Arctic Circle during the depths of winter. Runners face potential temperatures of -40°C while traversing 230 kilometers of pristine wilderness including frozen lakes, snowfields, and Arctic tundra. The self-sufficient format requires carrying all food and equipment while racing through a UNESCO World Heritage area with limited daylight, creating an unparalleled test of endurance in Europe's last remaining wilderness.
Prepare for This Race
GEAR GUIDE
The Best Hydration Vests for Ultrarunning in 2026
A tested guide to the best hydration vests for ultra marathons and long trail races — from lightweight racing vests to high-capacity mountain packs.
6 min read
RACE PREPARATION
Racing Western States: The Complete Preparation Guide
Everything you need to prepare for the Western States 100 — course strategy, essential gear, heat training, crew logistics, and what first-timers need to know.
7 min read
RACE GUIDE
The Hardest 100-Mile Races in the World
A look at the 100-mile races that push even the strongest ultra runners to their limits — what makes them brutal, and what draws people back.
3 min read
GEAR GUIDE
The Best Hydration Vests for Ultrarunning in 2026
A tested guide to the best hydration vests for ultra marathons and long trail races — from lightweight racing vests to high-capacity mountain packs.
RACE PREPARATION
Racing Western States: The Complete Preparation Guide
Everything you need to prepare for the Western States 100 — course strategy, essential gear, heat training, crew logistics, and what first-timers need to know.
RACE GUIDE
The Hardest 100-Mile Races in the World
A look at the 100-mile races that push even the strongest ultra runners to their limits — what makes them brutal, and what draws people back.
