HIGH COAST WINTER TRAIL

SWEDEN´S HARDEST
WINTER TRAIL

– Extreme 35k and Insane 50k really push the limits!

High Coast Winter Trail is Sweden’s most popular winter race, offering five unique distances to suit just about everyone.

But two of these distances aren’t for the faint of heart—Extreme 35k and Insane 50k are ranked among Sweden’s toughest winter races. Ready to push your limits, both physically and mentally? Here’s where you’ll find more about these epic challenges.

High Coast Winter Trail – Extreme 35k and Insane 50k are considered among Sweden’s toughest winter races.

Sweden’s Most Challenging and Beautiful Winter Race

The High Coast Winter Trail takes place in one of Sweden’s most stunning natural areas—The High Coast World Heritage Site, renowned for its dramatic, wild, and unique landscapes. Since its debut in 2017, this extraordinary event has grown to become Sweden’s most popular winter trail race.

With five distances to choose from, there’s something for everyone—from the Twin Peaks 13k and Three Peaks 17k to the original Classic 25k. For seasoned runners craving a real test, there are the ultimate challenges: Extreme 35k and Insane 50k.

High Coast Winter Trail – Extreme 35k and Insane 50k – What’s in store for us? We sit down with Joel Backa, Icebug ambassador, to find out.

A Tougher Challenge Than the Distance Suggests

The Extreme 35k and Insane 50k are two of Sweden’s most demanding running experiences. A layer of loose snow—10 to 20 centimeters deep, even on packed trails—makes these races feel significantly longer than the distances suggest.

Extreme 35k equals the effort of running 45–60 km on bare ground, while Insane 50k pushes participants with a physical challenge comparable to 70–90 km. And as if that weren’t enough, icy winds, steep climbs, and sometimes knee-deep snow on the most exposed sections raise the stakes even higher.

This isn’t a course for those seeking a leisurely run—it’s for those who thrive on pushing their limits.

The Mental Challenge

Taking on the Extreme 35k and Insane 50k isn’t just about physical strength—it’s equally a mental journey. Winter running in extreme conditions demands focus, resilience, and an unyielding determination to keep going.

Many past participants have shared that during the race, they encountered not only breathtaking views but also moments of doubt, exhaustion, and even the temptation to quit. Yet this is where the beauty of the challenge lies—overcoming those obstacles and discovering an inner strength that propels you forward.

Crossing the finish line isn’t just about completing a race; it’s about carrying the belief that you can conquer anything.

The cutoff times are generous—and you’ll need them—as we venture into the High Coast World Heritage Site’s stunning highlights and breathtaking views.

Extreme 35k and Insane 50k demand focus, endurance, and an unwavering will to keep going.

1. Train in Similar Conditions
If snow is part of your local climate, practice running in it. Otherwise, steep hills and cold temperatures are excellent training for the challenges you’ll face on the Extreme and Insane courses.

2. Gear Up Right
Waterproof shoes with excellent grip, sensible layering, and energy gels that work in freezing temperatures are essential. Test all your gear before race day. Don’t forget—you’ll need to carry mandatory equipment.

3. Mental Focus
Prepare mentally by practicing how to handle discomfort and unexpected situations. On the Insane course, nightfall will force you to rely on your headlamp. Visualize crossing the finish line and break the race into smaller goals. The Extreme course is divided into four stages, while Insane includes five.

4. Energy Plan
Maintaining energy levels is crucial. Stick to a clear nutrition and hydration strategy. Even in the cold, your body will burn an immense amount of energy.

5. Be Ready for Changing Conditions
You’ll be out for several hours, so weather changes are inevitable. Pack enough clothing and know how to handle severe weather or extreme cold. Take advantage of the drop-bag option to store extra gear or supplies.

If you feel like it’s just not your day, you have the option to switch between Classic 25k, Extreme 35k, and Insane 50k even during the race. Simply speak with the staff at the Energistation Entré South to make the change.

Flexibility to Change Distances

Unsure whether the Extreme 35k or Insane 50k is the right fit for you? No problem—you have the flexibility to adapt based on how you’re feeling. You can switch between Classic 25k, Extreme 35k, and Insane 50k at check-in, or even during the race itself. This means you don’t need to feel overly pressured when choosing your distance—you can always adjust your plans if something unexpected comes up.

This flexibility allows you to arrive with an open mind and tailor the experience to your needs. It’s a feature appreciated by those who want to take it easy and enjoy the journey, as well as by those looking to push themselves a little harder.

An Achievement Few Races Can Match

Completing the Extreme 35k or Insane 50k is more than just finishing a race—it’s an achievement that few others can rival. It’s a testament to your strength, endurance, and mental resilience. And perhaps most importantly, it’s a powerful reminder that we’re capable of far more than we imagine.

For those seeking a true challenge this winter, the High Coast Winter Trail and its Extreme 35k and Insane 50k distances are the ultimate answer!

Completing the Extreme 35k or Insane 50k gives you an absolutely incredible feeling!

High Coast Winter Trail – Insane 50k is exactly what it sounds like. Yet every year, around 50 people rise to the challenge and complete this 50-kilometer test of endurance.

If you take on the Insane 50k, you’ll return to FriluftsByn under the cover of darkness. You’ll hear the cowbells long before you see the finish line. That feeling of being so close—absolutely unbeatable!