The 78th Annual Leadville Ski Joring – March 7 & 8, 2026
One of Colorado’s most iconic winter traditions returns to historic Harrison Avenue as the 78th Annual Leadville Ski Joring event charges into town March 7–8, 2026. The high-energy competition features powerful horses pulling fearless skiers through a course of gates, jumps, and rings, delivering heart-pounding action in the heart of downtown Leadville.
The 2026 event coincides with the celebration of America’s 250th anniversary and Colorado’s 150th anniversary, adding special significance to a tradition deeply rooted in the era of Western expansion.
“What makes Leadville Ski Joring special is that it hasn’t been overproduced or reinvented. It’s a race, it’s loud, it’s fast, and it’s real,” said Duffy Counsell, Leadville Ski Joring Event Organizer. “For nearly eight decades, competitors and spectators have known exactly what they’re coming to Leadville for, and we deliver it every year. No matter the obstacles, we make it happen. When those horses hit the course on Harrison Avenue, there’s nothing else like it.”
~Adam Ducharme, Visit Leadville–Twin Lakes Tourism and Economic Development Director.
What is Skijoring?
Skijoring is a fast-paced competition in which a horse and rider pull a skier through a timed course featuring gates, jumps, and rings. Penalties are assessed for missed obstacles or dropped rings, and teams compete for cash prizes.
Event Details:
- Dates & Times: March 7–8, 2026; events begin at noon both days
- Location: Harrison Avenue, Leadville, Colorado
- Highlight: Skiers pulled by horses and riders through a course down Harrison Avenue, Leadville’s historic main street
- Admission: Free and open to all ages
- Note: Dogs and drones are strictly prohibited.
Schedule:
- Saturday, March 7, and Sunday, March 8
- 9:00 a.m.: Calcutta Auction at Announcer Stand on Harrison Avenue
- High Noon: Opening with the National Anthem, followed by Open, Sport, and Novice divisions
- Awards Ceremony: Following racing at the Elks Club (123 W. 5th St.)
Kids will also have the opportunity to experience the thrill of ski joring behind a snowmobile on Saturday after the main racing concludes.
Why Leadville Ski Joring Is Unmissable
The Leadville Ski Joring event has been held annually since 1949 and is recognized as one of the premier skijoring events in the country.
Now entering its 78th year, Leadville Ski Joring remains the most traditional and authentic competition in Colorado, widely regarded as the heart and soul of the sport. Known as the “Grand Daddy of ’em All,” the event features fast horses, big jumps, and lots of rings.
While temperatures may be warm on the Front Range, organizers confirm snow will be on the course in Leadville. Expanded amenities in 2026 include increased restroom facilities and additional local food truck options located just off Harrison Avenue.
“Leadville Ski Joring represents a true reflection of Western tradition,” said Adam Ducharme, Visit Leadville–Twin Lakes Tourism and Economic Development Director. “This town was built during the silver and gold rush that opened up the West, and racing horses and skiers down our historic main street captures the raw, authentic energy of that era. There are a few places left where you can experience Western culture this way. This isn’t a recreation of history; it’s a continuation of it.”
Visit leadvilleskijoring.com or follow Leadville Ski Joring on Facebook and Instagram for updates.
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