central part of the province. It is the oldest cross-country ski race in the world, as well as the one with the highest number of participants.

The race was inspired by a notable journey King Gustav Vasa made from Mora to Sälen when he was fleeing from Christian II's soldiers during the winter of 1520-1521. According to legend, he fled on skis. The modern competition started in 1922 and it has been a part of the Worldloppet