Bergen running
Run Clubs in Bergen: Complete Guide (2025)
Bergen has an active running scene with over 10 run clubs and social running groups. From free parkrun Bergen every Saturday morning (5 km), through Bergen Running Crew's social evening runs, to specialized trail running groups exploring Fløyen, Ulriken, and Vidden. Whether you're a beginner seeking social community and easy pace (6:00–7:00 min/km), or an experienced mountain runner looking for technical trails and challenging elevation, there's a club for you. Most clubs are free, while some offer coaching and structured training programs for 200–500 NOK/month. Bergen is unique in its combination of city running and mountain terrain—you can run from Bryggen to Fløyen summit in 30 minutes. Be prepared for rain (250+ rainy days), but also mild weather year-round. This guide helps you find the right club based on level, pace, location, and interest (social runs, trail running, intervals, beginner groups).
Important Notice: Information verified December 2024 via club websites, Facebook groups, and direct contact with organizers. Meeting times and locations may change—check club social media or contact the club directly before first visit.
10+
Run clubs
Free
Most clubs
Mountains
Fløyen & Ulriken
5–15 km
Typical distances
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Types of run clubs in Bergen
Free social run clubs
Parkrun Bergen (Saturday 09:00, 5 km at Nygård Park or Fana) is the largest free running event in Bergen. Bergen Running Crew organizes free social runs Tuesday and Thursday evenings with multiple pace groups. These clubs focus on community, inclusion, and the joy of running together. No commitments, no membership—just show up at the right time and place. Parkrun requires one-time online registration (free barcode). Perfect for beginners or those wanting to meet new friends through running. Bergen's running community is known for being warm and inclusive.
Trail and mountain running clubs
Bergen is a paradise for trail running with Fløyen (400m), Ulriken (643m), Rundemanen, and Løvstakken right by the city. Fana IL trail group, Bergen Mountain Runners, and local groups meet weekly for mountain runs with spectacular views over the city and fjords. Distances vary 8–15 km with significant elevation (300–600 meters). The Vidden run (Fløyen to Ulriken, 15 km) is a classic. Trail running is popular year-round, but be prepared for rain, wind, and spikes in winter. This suits you if you love nature, mountains, and technical trails.
Training-focused clubs with coaching
Bergen Running Club, IL Gular, Fana IL, and Nygårds IL offer structured training programs with certified coaches for 200–500 NOK/month. These clubs organize interval training, tempo runs, long runs, and specialized sessions (hill running, fartlek). Coaching suits those preparing for Bergen City Marathon, Fløyen Opp, or other races and wanting professional guidance. Clubs often have weekly sessions (2–4 per week) and access to training plans. Membership also grants discounts on races and gear.
Popular running routes in Bergen
Fløyen loop (8 km, 400m elevation)
Start at Fløibanen station, run up to Fløyen summit (400m) via Fløytrappene stairs or forest trail, enjoy panoramic views over Bergen, and run down via alternative trail. The run takes 45–60 minutes depending on pace. Great morning run before work or evening run with sunset. Many clubs meet here Tuesdays and Thursdays. Technical terrain with roots and rocky sections—remember shoes with good grip.
Vidden (15 km, Fløyen to Ulriken)
Classic mountain run from Fløyen (400m) to Ulriken (643m) via high mountain plateau. Distance 15 km with varied terrain (forest, mountain, rocky trails). Spectacular views over Bergen, Byfjorden, and surrounding mountains. Popular in summer and autumn. Many clubs organize Vidden runs as weekly or monthly sessions. Be prepared for weather changes (temperature can drop 10 degrees from city to mountain) and bring extra layers, water, and energy food.
Nygård Park and city center (2–5 km)
Flat, urban running route perfect for beginners or easy sessions. Run around Nygård Park, along Bryggen, around Lille Lungegårdsvannet, or from Nordnes to Sandviken. Distance 2–5 km depending on route. Well-lit, paved, and accessible year-round. Parkrun Bergen often takes place here. Perfect for lunch runs or evening runs after work. Changing rooms available at Nygård Park swimming area or city center gyms.
Tips for running in Bergen
Dress for rain and wind
Bergen has over 250 rainy days per year, so invest in good waterproof or windproof jacket, cap (keeps rain out of eyes), and running shoes with good grip on wet trails. Temperature is mild year-round (0–15°C), so you rarely need winter gear like in Oslo. Most clubs run in all weather—'there's no bad weather, only bad clothes'. Bring extra layers if heading to the mountains (temperature drops quickly with elevation).
Start with parkrun or social clubs
If you're new to Bergen or a beginner, start with parkrun Bergen (Saturday 09:00, 5 km, free) or Bergen Running Crew (Tuesday/Thursday evenings). These clubs are inclusive, have multiple pace groups, and focus on community over performance. Arrive 10–15 minutes early to meet organizers and find your pace group. Most clubs have sweepers (tail runners) ensuring no one gets left behind.
Explore the mountains, but be prepared
Bergen offers unique mountain running opportunities, but respect the mountains: check weather forecast (weather can change quickly), bring water and energy food, download maps offline (mobile coverage can be poor), and inform someone of your route. In winter, spikes are required for safe running on ice. Join a club or experienced mountain runner first time—they know the terrain and can guide you safely.
Bergen run clubs FAQ
Are run clubs in Bergen free?
Most social run clubs in Bergen are free: parkrun Bergen, Bergen Running Crew, and local running groups. Parkrun is always free (Saturday 09:00, 5 km), and Bergen Running Crew organizes free social runs several times per week. Some clubs like Bergen Running Club and IL Gular offer coaching and structured training for 200–500 NOK/month. Check the club's website or Facebook group for details.
Can beginners join?
Yes! Bergen has several beginner-friendly run clubs. Parkrun Bergen is perfect for beginners (5 km, all levels, Saturday morning). Bergen Running Crew has relaxed social runs with multiple pace groups. Local clubs like Fana IL and Nygårds IL also have beginner groups. Arrive early to meet organizers and find the group matching your pace. Bergen's running community is known for being inclusive and supportive.
When do run clubs meet in Bergen?
Parkrun Bergen meets Saturday at 09:00 (usually at Nygård Park or Fana). Bergen Running Crew has sessions Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 18:00–18:30. Bergen Running Club and local clubs have weekly sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Many clubs also have Sunday runs (long runs). Check the club's calendar or social media for exact times and meeting spots. Be prepared that Bergen weather can affect meeting locations (indoor alternatives during heavy rain).
Are there trail running clubs in Bergen?
Yes! Bergen is a paradise for trail running with mountains and forest areas right outside the city. Several clubs focus on trail running: Fana IL trail group, Bergen Mountain Runners, and local groups meeting at Fløyen, Ulriken, and Vidden. Distances vary 8–15 km, and trail running is popular year-round (winter requires spikes). Search for "terrengløp Bergen" or "trail running Bergen" on Facebook for active groups. Bergen's mountain terrain provides spectacular views and challenging elevation.
What's the weather like for running in Bergen?
Bergen is known for lots of rain (250+ rainy days per year), so be prepared for wet conditions! Invest in waterproof jacket, cap, and shoes with good grip. Temperature is mild year-round (0–15°C), so you rarely need winter gear like in Oslo. Most clubs run in all weather—'there's no bad weather, only bad clothes'. Summer (June–August) has longer days and less rain, perfect for evening runs with midnight sun. Remember reflective vest in autumn and winter!
How far do you run with clubs?
Parkrun is always 5 km. Social runs vary 5–10 km depending on group and pace. Trail runs in the mountains can be 10–15 km with significant elevation (Fløyen to Ulriken is 15 km). Training sessions with intervals are often 6–8 km total. Beginner groups typically stick to 3–5 km. Sunday runs (long runs) can be 15–20 km for marathon training. Check the club's description for typical distances.
Are there women-focused run clubs in Bergen?
Yes! Bergen has several women-focused running groups like Girls Run Bergen and local women's groups affiliated with Fana IL and Nygårds IL. These clubs offer safe, supportive running experiences with focus on community and inclusion. Many meet evenings or weekends with multiple pace groups. Check Instagram or Facebook for 'Girls Run Bergen' or 'kvinneløp Bergen' for active groups.
Do I need to register in advance?
Parkrun requires one-time online registration (free, get a barcode). Most social run clubs accept drop-ins without registration—just show up at the right time and place. Bergen Running Crew and local clubs are open to all. Some training-focused clubs (Bergen Running Club, IL Gular) may require membership or advance registration. Check the club's website or Facebook before your first visit.
What are the best running routes in Bergen?
Bergen has many great running routes: Nygård Park (flat, 2–5 km), Nordnes Park with sea views, Fløyen loop (8 km, 400m elevation), Vidden (Fløyen to Ulriken, 15 km), and the coastal route from Nordnes to Sandviken. Many clubs run along Bryggen and around Lille Lungegårdsvannet (city center). Trail runners love Rundemanen, Brushytten, and Løvstakken. Most clubs vary routes weekly to keep it interesting.
What should I bring?
Essential for Bergen: waterproof or windproof jacket (rain is common!), running shoes with good grip (wet trails), water, and reflective vest/headlamp if dark. Cap keeps rain out of your eyes. Mobile phone is useful for finding the meeting spot. Some clubs meet at changing rooms or cafés where you can leave your bag. For trail running: bring spikes in winter and extra layers (temperature drops quickly in the mountains).