Skimo Nationals coming to Solitude with 22nd annual Wasatch Powderkeg races

2023 Wasatch Powderkeg Skimo National Championships. Photo: Jonathon Fox

BIG COTTONWOOD CANYON, Utah — Once again USA Skimo is hosting its National Championships and North American Continental Championships in the Wasatch Mountains. This time, it’s at Solitude March 1-3.

Skimo, short for ski mountaineering, has racers skiing uphill not necessarily on established, groomed resort trails, and skiing back down against competitors across a finish line (in some cases).

The PowderKeg weekend will include three days of racing with the vertical, individual, and sprint disciplines of skimo racing.

The Powderkeg celebrates those that love the backcountry by offering recreational and youth divisions.

Spectators are welcome at all events and viewing is free. The Sunday sprint race is considered the most exciting event for spectators.

SCHEDULE:

Friday, March 1

“Vertical” uphill only (15 min to 1h)

On mountain, starting from the Moonbeam Base Area
5:15 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Saturday, March 2

“Individual” multiple ascents and descents (1h- multi-hour)

On mountain, starting from Last Chance Lodge
8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Sunday, March 3

“Sprint” race combining all the skills under 4min in heats and finals like cross country skiing sprint races.

On mountain on Main Street, starting from Last Chance Lodge
8 a.m.. – 12:30 p.m.

Registration is full, however a waitlist is available.

The second annual power pint race, an introductory skimo course for ages ten and under will be available. Also, those not interested in racing for the championships are still welcome in the long or short course, but will be in a separate wave. 

Athletes from Park City will compete against a national roster, as well as some from the Park City Ski and Snowboard Team (PCSS) Skimo Team. which can often be seen training around The Utah Olympic Park at night guided by their headlamps.

Skimo will be making its Olympic debut in the 2026 Cortina-Milan Games and top finishers at this Wasatch Powderkeg will look to solidify their chances of being among the first athletes to historically represent the USA in an Olympics.