Trappers Trail 2026: Svalbard’s Sled Dog Race

On the weekend of 21-22 March 2026, the northernmost sled dog race in the world, Trappers Trail, took place on Svalbard. Covering 70 km, the race started in Longyearbyen, included an overnight stay at Bikkjebu, and finished at Longyearpasset.

Participants could enter one of four categories: Ski and pulk (1-3 dogs), Small Dog Team (3-6 dogs), Big Dog Team (7-8 dogs), and Open Class (9-12 dogs). Organized by the Longyearbyen Hundeklubb, the race invites local mushers and their dogs to compete in both sport and social connection.

This year, 15 teams participated under excellent weather conditions. The fastest total time was recorded by Jostein Børve Hernes in the Big Dog Team category, completing the course in 3 hours, 50 minutes, and 4 seconds. Valentina Novoseltseva won the Ski and Pulk category (6 h 56 min 14 s), Katja Baum took the Open Class (3 h 58 min 13 s), and Gaute Jordbrudal won the Small Dog Team (4 h 15 min 40 s).

Trappers Trail started in 2009 as a social, low-key sled dog race. Over the years, competitors’ times have generally improved, though results still depend heavily on snow conditions and weather during the race. The event continues to be a highlight for Svalbard’s dog sledding community, combining competition with community spirit and the breathtaking Arctic landscape.

Léa Zinsli, PolarJournal