
Whitewater Ski Resort is gearing up to host three days of high-intensity ski mountaineering races this weekend.
The Ymir Climber races are designed to test competitors' endurance and speed as they maneuver their way through in-bound and backcountry terrain using dedicated uphill tracks.
The annual event is a part of the Canda Cup Skimo Race Circuit that includes vertical, individual, and relay races.
The competitions are broken into two race divisions:
Elite: Featuring some of the fastest racers in the word, this race division will challenge even the most fit ski mountaineering athletes as they go head-to-head and test their endurance, technical skills, and mountain savvy. To qualify for the points series and national team consideration, athletes must compete in this race category.
Heavy Metal: For participants with traditional backcountry skis/splitboard, boots and bindings rather than specialized SkiMo racing equipment. A combined single ski/binding weight of 1,450 gram (51 ounces) is a typical weight cut-off.
Race Schedule
Vertical Race – Friday, Feb.7
Starting at the Day Lodge, this race ascends Quartz Ski Way, Silver King Ski Way, and Ymir Ski Way to the
top of the Raven chair. It is a single ascent, completed entirely on skis or a split-board with skins.
Individual Race – Feb. 8
This race is a true test of endurance, taking participants through multiple ascents, descents, and
bootpacks across Whitewater's diverse terrain. The race, which lasts from 1.5 to 3 hours, loops from the
Raven slope to the Summit slope, to Half Dome and beyond, covering the resort’s most iconic features.
Relay Race – Feb.9
A highlight of the weekend, this race is a fast-paced team event that features short sprint circuits and will
make its debut in the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan. It is sure to bring intense competition and fun.
Race divisions :
- Junior (ages 18 and under)
- Adult (ages19-49)
- Masters (ages 50+)
To join in on all the action, or for more information about how to register, visit the Whitewater Ski Resort website.