Norwegian Foot March & Trail Run – Arden Hills, MN 2026

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