Norwegian Foot March & Trail Run
30K · 19 mi · 5K · Walk
Apr 18, 2026 · Arden Hills, Minnesota, US
Listed Nov 28, 2022
Run Vibes summary
AI-assistedAt a glance (AI-assisted text)
Join the Norwegian Foot March or Trail Run, a unique event supporting military families and programs, offering a blend of historical challenge and community spirit in Arden Hills, MN.
The vibe (AI-assisted text)
This event brings together a unique blend of military tradition, challenging endurance, and community support. You'll find a mix of serious competitors tackling the historic Foot March, trail runners pushing their limits on the 30K, and casual participants enjoying the 5K, all united by a common goal to support military families and programs. The atmosphere is one of shared effort and camaraderie, with a strong sense of purpose.
Best for (AI-assisted text)
This event is ideal for runners seeking a distinctive challenge, military enthusiasts, and anyone looking to support a meaningful cause. It's also great for trail runners ready for a 30K, or those just wanting a fun 5K walk/run with a patriotic twist.
Race day (AI-assisted text)
Packet pickup starts Friday evening, offering a chance to explore a Business Expo and Static Display, adding a unique dimension to the pre-race experience. Saturday morning kicks off with the challenging 30K Foot March and Trail Run, followed by the more accessible 5K. Expect a focused but supportive crowd at the start, with an awards ceremony at noon for the longer distances, celebrating achievements and the event's charitable impact.
Personality (AI-assisted text)
The event has a disciplined yet welcoming personality, blending the rigorous spirit of military endurance with the open-hearted generosity of a charity event. There's a strong sense of shared purpose and respect for the historical roots of the Foot March. It's an event where you can push your physical limits while feeling connected to a larger community effort.
Weather snapshot (AI-assisted text)
Taking place in Arden Hills, MN in April, you can expect variable spring weather. It could be cool and crisp, ideal for running, but there's also a chance of rain or cooler temperatures. Layering is always a good strategy for Minnesota springs.
Terrain & course feel (AI-assisted text)
Given the 'Trail Run' designation, expect unpaved surfaces, which could include dirt paths, gravel, and potentially some uneven ground. The location at the Arden Hills Army Training Center suggests the terrain might be varied, possibly including some rolling hills or more rugged sections typical of a training facility.
Signals we noticed (from listing text, AI-assisted)
- Norwegian Foot March in title
- Trail Run option mentioned
- Proceeds benefit AUSA Troops of Tomorrow, MN VA Food Pantry, military programs
- 30K Foot March with 11kg pack mentioned
- History of Norwegian Foot March described
- 30K and 5K Trail Run options open to general public
- Packet Pickup, Business Expo & Static Display mentioned
- Awards Ceremony mentioned
- T-shirt with registration mentioned
- Arden Hills Army Training Center location
This section is produced with AI from the listing we have on file—think of it as a quick orientation, not a rulebook. Organizers can update start times, courses, policies, and perks at any time, so when something really matters, please lean on their official race page for the latest. We don’t independently verify every detail against live organizer updates; we’re here to help you get a feel for the event and decide if you want to dig deeper.
Original listingFull description from sourceExpand the official listing text (unchanged)▾
The Norwegian Foot March is an annual event presented by the Vessey Chapter of the Association of the U.S. Army (AUSA). For the fourth year, it is adding a 30K and 5K Trail Run option open to all military families, Junior and Senior ROTC programs, and the general public. The event's proceeds will benefit the AUSA Troops of Tomorrow initiative, the Minnesota VA Food Pantry, 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 fully participate in regular duties. Over the past several years, the event has gained popularity among U.S. military units, which use the march as an opportunity to support charitable causes.
SCHEDULE
Friday
4:00 pm - 8:00 pm: Packet Pickup, Business Expo & Static Display
Arden Hills Army Training Center, 4761 Hamline Ave S., Arden Hills, MN 55112
Saturday
7:00 - 8:45: 30K Foot March Packet Pickup & Check-In
9:00: Foot March & 30K Trail Run Start
9:30: 5K Train Run/Walk Start
Noon: Foot March & 30K Trail Run Awards Ceremony
FEES
- Foot March: $50
- 30K Trail Run: $50
- 5K Trail Run: $30
Everyone receives a t-shirt with their registration (no guarantee of shirt/size on race day; it is on a first-come, first-served basis)
Registration closes on April 16, 2025.
NORWEGIAN 30K FOOT MARCH STANDARDS
The uniform that all participants will wear while on the course is as follows:
- Military members will wear their service's combat fatigues. Any camouflage pattern is acceptable, and uniforms will all be in accordance with applicable regulations. Civilians may wear any appropriate civilian attire and must also wear boots.
- A ruck weighing no less than 11 kilograms or 24.3 pounds. Note that the ruck will be weighed at the finish line, so anything you can consume over the course of the race (water, snacks, etc.) will not count for weight.
- A water source. There will be aid stations along the course with water and food, but you must also have at least one quart (one canteen) worth of water at the start of the race. Any type of container is acceptable (canteen, bladder, bottle, etc.).
- Any necessary cold or wet weather gear. You may keep this in your ruck during the race, but it will not count for weight and must be taken out when the ruck is weighed at the finish.
Click Here for updated Norwegian Foot March details.
AWARDS
Various awards will be given to top finishers and top age group finishers in the 30K, 5K Trail Run, and 30K Foot March.
Click Here for more details on the awards being presented.
TIMING AND RESULTS
The event will be chip-timed by Pickle Events
Results will be available during the race at: www.pickleevents.com
COURSE MAPS
Click here for the course maps
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