Tradition since 1968

The König Ludwig Lauf was founded in 1968 as the Bavarian cross-country skiing "In König Ludwig's Footsteps" in Oberammergau. The first run took place on March 17th, 1968. Originally, at 90km, it was the longest ski marathon in the world, but this distance was shortened in the 1980s to ensure that the run could be carried out. It is the largest popular cross-country skiing event in Germany and is held in Oberammergau and Ettal in the Ammergau Alps Nature Park. Initially, the König Ludwig Lauf was a purely male domain, until 1980 women were allowed to start. He is part of the Worldloppet series and also a founding member of the Worldloppet Association, an association of the 20 largest ski marathon events worldwide.

Every year athletes from over 30 nations take part.
Two years after it was founded, over 1000 sports enthusiasts were welcomed to the Ammergau Alps firstime. Due to the cosiness, the hospitality of the helpers and the unique natural and cultural landscape, the event is a must for every amateur and professional athlete.

The start traditionally takes place on the first weekend in February in Ettal, the goal is the Oberammergau sports center. There are courses over 50 km and 21 km each in classic (Sunday) and skating (Saturday) as well as the so-called "Mini Kini" over 6 km and 4 km   for children between 6 and 14 years. At the same time, the world championship in cross-country skiing for doctors and pharmacists will take place over 21 and 50 km. The traditional long route leads from the start in Ettal through the Graswang valley directly past Linderhof Castle and back through the Graswang valley to the destination in Oberammergau.