Cross-country skiing at the bottom of the world: The Antarctic Loppet
paid content by Antarctic Logistics & Expeditions
Cross-country skiing has a long and storied heritage in Antarctica. Roald Amundsen’s team was the first to reach the South Pole and their skiing ability was a key element to their success. Antarctic Logistics & Expeditions proudly offers their newest experience to celebrate this key element of Antarctica’s heritage and invites cross-country skiing enthusiasts to be a part of modern sporting history: The Antarctic Loppet 2025.
This new five-day experience boasts three events of varying distances (10K, 20K and 50K), traveling through the extraordinary scenery of the Ellsworth Mountains. The event will be open to all cross-country skiers seeking to challenge themselves, learn about Antarctica’s ‘Heroic Era’ and be a part of modern Antarctic sporting history.
Participants will fly from Punta Arenas, Chile to Antarctica on ALE’s chartered jet and be based at ALE’s Union Glacier Camp.
Whether you are an elite athlete looking to push yourself in a new environment, or a cross-country skiing enthusiast seeking adventure on the White Continent, the Antarctic Loppet provides an incredible opportunity like no other. ALE’s exclusive travel itinerary offers guests the opportunity to learn from specially curated lectures, compete in the timed Antarctic cross-country skiing events, and take part in guided excursions to some stunning Union Glacier locations. Personal ski time and a celebratory event round out this experience which honors cross-country skiing as an important aspect of Antarctic history.
What to expect: Union Glacier Camp in Antarctica
Union Glacier will be your Antarctic home away from home. With cozy Clam Shell tents for quality sleep, professionally cooked meals that satisfy your nutritional needs, the inclusivity of the whole camp experience allows you to stay comfortable in the polar environment. Instead of showing up to simply ski, staying at Union Glacier removes the pressure of organizing logistics, and provides you with the unique opportunity to experience Antarctica. Whether it’s hearing history lectures about explorers of old or taking a half-day to explore the stunning local scenery, there are many chances to create lasting memories alongside your athletic accomplishment.
The Course
Thanks to the excellent work of the ALE team, the Antarctic Loppet course is professionally groomed and comparable to other Nordic venues, so technical preparation does not differ significantly. With appropriate gear and preparation, training can remain largely the same as for any other Loppet.
Antarctica is such a stunning and unique location, and to experience the raw beauty and power of Nature at the bottom of the Earth is an experience like none other. The Antarctic Loppet not only allows you to test your skills in a new environment, but to come away from the event with new knowledge about the continent and an appreciation for our natural world.
