Slightly different from downhill skiing, Nordic Skiing takes place on a flat track with more narrow skis and bindings that allow the heel to be loose from the ski. This allows skiers to move quickly in a more natural walking position. Sun Valley Nordic Festival and the Zion’s Bank Boulder Mountain Tour have teamed up for an all inclusive Nordic Skiing experience. They, along with them many groups, individuals, and organizations welcome you to NordicTown USA January 29th through February 2nd. Whether you participate in Nordic Skiing yourself and would like to participate, or want to be the skiers biggest fan, all can enjoy this five day competitive spectacle.
Festival Kickoff
This festival kicks off on Wednesday, January 29 with Nordic Town USA Sprints; a freestyle relay race on a 400m track. There will be two separate rounds of youth sprints starting at 4:15 and 4:30pm. Then, the “Regs and Dregs” class for citizens (5pm), and finally the elite class (5:15pm). Other public happenings that day include hot cocoa at the Zion’s Bank stand and an evening of dance and music with the country-rock band Pisten Bullies (5:30-8pm at the Limelight Hotel).
Boulder Mountain Tour
Leading up to the Boulder Mountain Tour on Saturday, participants can work on their skills at the free Thursday Clinic with the Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation Gold Team and pick up their timing chip and souvenirs on Friday. The 34 kilometer race will begin at 10am Saturday at the Harriman Trail and the 15k Half Boulder at 11:30am at Baker Creek.
Awards and Celebration
Once participants have crossed the finish line and all have fueled up with food and water, head over to the Ketchum Town Square for the award ceremony and party 5-7pm. Food and drinks stands will be plentiful and even some epic raffle items!
Barbecue and Demos
On Sunday, several elite brands including Swix, Solomon, Fischer, and Rossignol offer demos of their latest products. Trail passes are included for participants of the race and discounted to just $10 for all others. Try out those Nodic Skiing legs with the latest gear and elite athletes to learn from. A fun day for the whole family including burgers, brats, and veggie burgers too!
For more info, check out the Sun Valley and Boulder Mountain Websites below:
https://www.visitsunvalley.com/event/sun-valley-nordic-festival-featuring-the-boulder-mountain-tour/?instance_id=6742 https://bouldermountaintour.com/
