Part race, part expedition, the first documentation of this event records participants skiing from Lake Louise to Banff through the Bow Valley on February 8, 1929. After a long hiatus, the Loppet light was rekindled in 1979 and has kick-and-glided its way to becoming a Bow Valley staple for experienced and novice skier alike.

In 1990, the event was skied by individuals as well as teams of up to six members (or four team members when the shortened course is used-ending at Sawbuck). The ‘90s version of this annual cross-country Loppet was contested with the entry of teams sponsored by Baker Creek Chalets, Castle Mountain Village and Wilson Mountain Sports. Consisting of only 100 racers in the ‘90s, word got out that spandex is in. The race has since grown to 200 participants (approximately 60 soloists and 140 team members).

Traditionally, the Loppet followed a 72km course, finishing on the frozen Bow River in front of Banff’s Central Park. Due to changing wildlife corridor priorities, the course has been shortened to 50km, finishing at the Sawback parking lot on the Bow Valley Parkway. We think you’ll still have plenty enough time to both enjoy and endure the adventure.