UPDATE (3/9/26)
Well, it’s a wrap! The 53rd Bjornloppet XC Race Weekend was a success under warm sunny skies, well-groomed trails, and best of all, a Nordic community that is fun, supportive, and skis hard with a smile. Cheers!
UPDATE (3/3/26)
The 10K & 20K course is adjusted for 2026. We have eliminated the Headwaters trail and added Stanislaus Lookout. We think it’s pretty cool ;-)
UPDATE (2/28/26
The greater Bear Valley community recently lost an influential person, George Hall. George probably raced in more Bjornloppets than anyone and has been a dedicated member of our village for a long time. Please read this thoughtful remembrance of George.
UPDATE (2/22/26)
Early registration pricing has been extended to Saturday, February 28th!
The Bear Valley Adventure Company is excited to host the 53rd Bjornloppet XC Ski Race Weekend on March 7 & 8, 2026. This event is one of the longest-running cross country ski races in California and is a special opportunity to test your skills on some of the most scenic trails in California and beyond.
OVERVIEW:
Saturday is the big freestyle race (skate & classic) with 20K, 10K, and 5K courses. Afterward, racers, volunteers, and guests enjoy a tasty meal and awards ceremony at Reba’s Meadow Cafe.
Sunday is the classic-only race, with 10K and 5K courses on different parts of the Bear Valley trail system. The weekend concludes with appetizers and awards at Reba’s Meadow Cafe.
A common question is, how serious is this ski race? The Bjornloppet is a race where competition near the front of the pack is real. However, further back, many skiers focus on the personal challenge of the day and the adventure of skiing some great trails. We encourage new and experienced skiers to participate and enjoy the day regardless of their intentions.
Racers are encouraged to register at least two weeks before the event to get the best prices. Within two weeks, prices will increase and rise again at 5PM on March 6th, 2026.
RACE DETAILS
Saturday:
9-10am - Registration & Check-In @ the Trailhead
10:30am - Race Starts
2026 Saturday Maps:
Lunch starts at 12:30PM at Reba’s Meadow Cafe
Awards after all racers return (~2 pm)
Sunday:
9-9:30am - Registration & Check-In @ the Trailhead
10am - Race Starts
Appetizers & awards @ Meadow Cafe after all racers return (~12pm)
FEES: (all race entries include a trail pass)
Saturday (includes race and lunch):
Adult 10K or 20K - $75
Junior 10K or 20K (under 18) - $45
All Ages 5K - $35
Guest Lunch - $25
Sunday (includes race and appetizers):
All Ages 5K or 10K - $50
Guest Appetizers $20
Discounted Guest Trail Passes:
$30 adult trail passes for guests of racers on Saturday & Sunday are available at the registration table
On your mark, get set, GO!
