Skimara
Kandersteg - Touring ski competition
19. skimara
March 2026
Without licence
Still
to the next Skimara
Welcome to Skimara,
the second longest ski touring race in Switzerland in picturesque Kandersteg!
In addition to the prestigious Patrouille des Glaciers (PDG), the Skimara is the second longest run in Switzerland. It is also ideal preparation for the PDG. The Skimara promises an unforgettable experience in the snow-covered mountains of Kandersteg. The best thing about it? No license is required - any ski touring enthusiast can take part!
Participation in the Skimara is possible as a team of 2 or 3, and we also welcome mixed teams. Decide on the challenge by choosing between two impressive routes:
- Superskimara (36 km, 3600 m ascent):
The ultimate challenge for experienced skiers who want to conquer the summit. - Skimara (29 km, 2700 m ascent):
A slightly shorter route, perfect for those looking for a demanding but more accessible challenge.
The early start times of 03:00/04:00/05:00 make it possible to enjoy the special and unforgettable experience of the Sunrise during your tour - a magical moment in the snow-covered mountains of Kandersteg.
Would you like to be part of this unique ski marathon experience?
The race takes place on March 16 and 17 takes place.
We look forward to welcoming you to Kandersteg!
Registration closed
What people say about us
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Patricia Muler
Founder, Awesome Company
" You've read about the impoce of the being courageous, rebelliousi and it's imaginative. These are all vital for ingredients in an effective advertising they must."
Nicholas Arimoly
Founder, Awesome Company
" You've read about the impoce of the being courageous, rebelliousi and it's imaginative. These are all vital for ingredients in an effective advertising they must."
Dean Statson
Founder, Awesome Company
Hanspeter Gammeter
Founder & President
In 2003, after taking part in the PDG several times, I looked around for a new challenge.
The popular PDG is in Valais, so I thought of a similar project in the equally attractive Bernese Oberland. In Kandersteg we found a central starting point in the beautiful Gemmi and Wildstrubel region and Kandersteg Tourism supported the project. The initial idea was to offer a race in the intermediate years, but it soon became clear that demand was much greater in the PDG years.
The skimara, the longest race in Switzerland alongside the PDG, soon established itself as a popular final training run for the PDG. The route has been repeatedly adapted and has remained unchanged since 2009. Starting in Kandersteg and finishing on Sunnbüel, the Steghorn and Rinderhorn are the outstanding points. We run in a wonderful snow-sure alpine panorama mostly above 2000 m above sea level!
FAQ
Is a license required to participate?
No, every ski touring enthusiast is welcome.
Where can I park?
Use the paid parking spaces at the barracks area in Kandersteg.
How is the route marked?
The trail is well groomed and marked, and the first section is also equipped with lights.
Are there shower facilities at the finish?
Yes, there is a checkroom and showers near the finish at the Sunnbüel cable car mountain station. You can also hand in warm clothing at the start, which will then be transported to the finish for you.
A frequently asked question surrounding your service
A frequently asked question surrounding your service
A frequently asked question surrounding your service
A frequently asked question surrounding your service
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