If you love to ski, experience the thrill of being pulled by horses in high-speed races at four incredible Southwest Colorado skijoring events this winter!
Skijoring events occur in Silverton, Leadville, Pagosa Springs, and Ridgway, Colorado, providing adrenaline-pumping action for the whole family, as spectators or competitors.
Join The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, the Grand Imperial Hotel, and Hutton Broadcasting for unforgettable winter adventures across Colorado with the exciting sport of s
Skijor Pagosa: January
Dates: Saturday, January 17 – Sunday, January 18, 2026
Where: Archuleta County Fair Grounds, Pagosa Springs, Colorado
Tickets: General admissions charged; family-friendly viewing, with kids aged 12 and under free with an adult.
Organizer: Skis and Saddles SkiJor; Skijor USA and StreamHorse may partner to live-stream the races. Check ahead on the Skijor Pagosa website and social media closer to the event.
About Skijor Pagosa
Skijor Pagosa is an electrifying competition where horse and rider teams work together to pull skiers or snowboarders at exhilarating speeds through a demanding obstacle course packed with jumps, gates, and rings that must be swooped up by either or both skier and rider, depending on the competition skill level.
These high-energy competitions combine Pagosa County’s skiing traditions with its cowboy heritage, delivering fast-paced spectacles that captivate spectators from start to finish. Competitors vie for cash prizes, with champions crowned based on speed and precision.
Skijor Pagosa offers a fantastic way to take in the stunning scenery of southern Colorado while creating unforgettable moments with loved ones. The event is managed by Skis and Saddles, a group of local volunteers and business owners who aim to highlight the best of Pagosa during the winter months.
With roots stretching back over a century in the Western United States and Canada, skijoring is the ultimate blend of skiing and equestrian skill, a cherished tradition that Pagosa Springs proudly upholds.
See the Skijor Pagosa schedule and get tickets when they become available.
San Juan Skijoring in Ridgway: January
When: Friday, January 9 – Sunday, January 11, 2026
Where: Ouray County Fairgrounds, Ridgway, Colorado
Tickets: Daily ticket prices, weekend passes, and special events. The Novice and Snowboard Lite event during the day on Friday is free to attend. Free general admission for children aged 11 and under, as well as a sledding hill and stick horse races for kids and families.
Get tickets, when available, at this link. View the San Juan Skijoring Hall of Fame to see the top skiers, riders, and horses from previous years.
Jumbotrons will be present, offering large replay screens on-site. In 2025 and in previous years, Cowboy Channel+ carried live coverage, but is TBD for 2026. Check back soon for more details.
About San Juan Skijoring
San Juan Skijoring is a heart-pounding winter sports event set against the breathtaking backdrop of Ouray County, where adrenaline-fueled action meets cutting-edge competition. San Juan Skijoring provides an unforgettable experience for participants and spectators alike.
The high-energy, three-day competition showcases the incredible skills of talented riders and skiers as they navigate thrilling courses amid dramatic mountain backdrops in the “Gateway to the San Juans.”
Known for pushing the boundaries of the sport, San Juan Skijoring brings excitement and surprises at every turn. In addition to the races, attendees can enjoy live music performances, local cuisine, food vendors, and interactive exhibitions. The entire event is a celebratory festival.
Visit San Juan Skijoring to learn more and watch a video for a taste of the action to come.
Silverton Skijoring: February
When: Saturday, February 14 – Sunday, February 15, 2026 (President’s Day Weekend)
Where: 11th Street and Blair Street in Silverton, Colorado
Tickets: General admission is free for this family-friendly event. For those aged 21 and over, a beer garden at 12th Street puts you right in the middle of the action, with a variety of libations available.
See the schedule of events for spectators for skijoring in Silverton and the schedule for skijoring racers, to whom over $15K prize money will be awarded.
Note: No dogs or drones are allowed on or near the racecourse or stable area.
About Silverton Skijoring
Silverton Skijoring was founded in 2010 by residents Pete Maisel and Rob Conaty, beginning as a modest gathering of a few hundred onlookers in this charming and rugged mountain town in the San Juans. It has since evolved into a must-see annual event that draws participants and over 2,500 fans from across the Four Corners region.
This high-octane sport features skiers being pulled by horses at speeds of 35 – 45 mph through the snow-lined streets of historic downtown Silverton. As they race against the clock, skiers must tackle jumps and collect rings by hand or with a baton while trying to avoid a wipeout. Expect plenty of thrills and spills!
Live Broadcast: Show up or tune in to 92.9 The Point for a live broadcast from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. during Saturday’s event.
Organized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Silverton Skijoring is powered entirely by volunteers. The largest winter event in Silverton, it boosts the town’s winter economy and provides a lively, family-oriented experience for the entire community.
Read more about Silverton Skijoring and see other fun things to do in Silverton, Colorado.
Leadville Skijoring: March
When: Saturday, March 7 – Sunday, March 8, 2026
Where: West 8th Street, Leadville, Colorado
Tickets: Attendance is free for everyone at this family-friendly event. Check out the event schedule for spectators.
Note: For safety reasons, no dogs are permitted at the event.
About Leadville Ski Joring
The story of Leadville Ski Joring (LSJ) began in 1949 when two close friends, Tom Schroeder and “Mugs” Ossman, sat in the Golden Burro Café in Leadville discussing the upcoming winter festivities.
Inspired by a trip to Steamboat Springs, where they first witnessed the sport of skijoring, the duo decided to bring this exciting activity to Leadville.
Unlike the slower-paced version they observed in Steamboat, they envisioned a faster and more exciting experience since Mugs bred Quarter Horses for speed and Tom was an adventurous skier.
After experimenting with their concept at Mugs’ ranch just north of Leadville, they perfected the high-speed, adrenaline-filled sport of skijoring as it’s known today.
This now-iconic event features teams of horses and riders pulling skiers through a timed course filled with gates and jumps, using a baton to pick up rings. See the rules for competitors.
Held annually on the first weekend of March, Leadville Ski Joring has become a cornerstone of the town’s winter festivities and one of the nation’s top events. Each day kicks off at high noon, setting the stage for a thrilling competition where racers compete for cash prizes and unforgettable glory.
See the 2025 champion and competitors run and time sheets.
Skijoring FAQ + Tips: Your Guide to Horse-Powered Skiing
If you’re new to skijoring or curious to learn more about this thrilling winter sport, you’re not alone. Here, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about skijoring.
What is skijoring? What’s the difference between skijoring and regular skiing?
Skijoring is a winter sport where a person on skis is pulled by a horse, dog (or dogs), reindeer, or even a motor vehicle. In Austria’s first Zell am See Ice Race in 1952 on frozen Lake Zell, they used Porsches to pull the skiers.
European skijoring typically features a skier controlling a riderless horse with long reins rather than being pulled by a long rope. American skijoring competitions feature the skier being pulled by a horse with rider, combining rodeo with skiing.
Where does the word skijoring come from?
The word “skijoring” comes from the Norwegian word “skikjøring” which translates to “ski driving.”
The sport, as it is now known and was popularized, originated in Scandinavia, as well as Mongolia, Central Asia, and Russia, where people have been pulled on skis by horses, dogs, and reindeer for centuries, initially as a form of winter transportation.
While its roots are in practical travel, skijoring has become a recreational activity and competitive sport enjoyed worldwide.
Where does skijoring take place?
Skijoring happens worldwide wherever there’s snow and access to horses or dog sled teams. North America, especially the Western U.S. and Canada, boasts a thriving skijoring scene. It’s also popular in the European Alps and in Russia.
You can find skijoring events and outfitters at ski resorts, ranches, frozen lakes, and even dedicated skijoring tracks. No matter where you choose to try it, make sure the location has good snow conditions, experienced guides, and a safety-first environment for both people and animals.
Best of all, you can find good contacts by attending any of the above skijoring events in Southwest Colorado!
What is the skijoring setup?
- Skis: Ski types are a hot topic and some consider it a trade secret. Skate skis, classic skis, and backcountry skis are among the most popular options. Some choose snowboards at events where they are allowed.
- Tow rope: A strong and long rope designed explicitly for skijoring with a quick-release mechanism for safety and rings to connect to the horn or cantle of the saddle.
- Harness: A comfortable harness to distribute the pull from the tow rope.
- Horse and rider: An experienced equestrian with a trained animal.
- Helmet: Safety first! Always wear a helmet.
- Goggles: Prevent being blinded by snow and ice spray.
- Gloves: Some skiers suggest gloves with a rubber coating, instead of leather, for traction while managing the rope. Talk to skijoring experts for their advice.
- Insurance: General liability insurance is required for organizers of skijoring events. Typically, participants must sign waiver and release forms. Fairground venues generally have existing insurance.
Tip: Always check your event or training club in advance for their rules and equipment requirements, such as required length of rope. For example, an event may supply you the rope and baton they require. They may conduct an equipment check if you bring your own.
Where can I go skijoring?
Skijoring is gaining in popularity. During the 2026 season, multiple events will also be held elsewhere in Colorado, as well as in Utah, Idaho, Washington, Wyoming, Montana, Maine, and Alberta, Canada.
Check out the upcoming Southwest Colorado skijoring events detailed on this page and contact event coordinators to find how you can get involved nearby.
Do I need to be a good skier?
You should have basic skiing skills and be comfortable controlling your speed and making turns on easy slopes. It’s a good idea to also feel confident working the skijoring ropes to maintain proper tautness. Check with your event coordinator or outfitter about taking prep classes.
Do I need to be a good rider?
No, you don’t need riding experience to be the skier; however, it is important to have general equestrian safety awareness. For example, during prep for the start gate, you always want to make sure that none of your ski equipment could cause harm to the horse, such as by leaving equipment like skis or rope momentarily unattended, which can be an accident waiting to happen.
Does the horse need special gear?
If you ride and want to try skijoring, your horse will need a few key pieces of gear for safety and comfort. This includes a well-fitted harness, a sturdy bridle for control, and leg protection for deep snow or icy conditions, as well as secure rope rigging to pull the skier.
Some competitors choose for their horse to be unshod; others choose studded ice shoes or specialized hoof boots to help with traction on snow and ice. Most skijorer riders in the West will use a Western-style saddle, with a breast collar attached to distribute the weight and pull of the rope.
It’s always best to consult experienced skijorers or equestrian professionals to ensure your horse has the right gear and a proper fit.
What is a skijor track like?
A skijor track is a snowy obstacle course designed for horse-and-skier teams. It’s typically a long straightaway or oval-shaped course with a mix of gates, ramps, and jumps that the skier must successfully navigate while being pulled by the horse at high speed. Some courses have rings that the skier must also collect using a baton (or by hand depending on the event) and carry through the finish.
The gates are usually made of poles with flags, and the jumps can vary in size and difficulty. Some tracks might include rolling terrain or banked turns to add to the challenge. The whole idea is to test the horse, rider, and skier’s speed, agility, and teamwork as they race against the clock and other competitors.
Can I bring my horse?
Many skijoring outfitters and events allow you to bring your own horse but may require proof of training and temperament suitability.
Is skijoring dangerous?
Like any high-adrenaline and speed sport, skijoring has inherent risks. However, it can be a safe and exciting activity with proper equipment, experienced guides, and well-trained animals. Always follow safety guidelines and listen to your guide.
Are skijoring events worth it?
The Southwest Colorado skijoring events mentioned above are said to be a ton of fun and family-friendly. Silverton has a skijor spectator party zone beer garden to separate 21+ drinkers from young, under-age attendees. Food and retail vendors abound, as well as light shows and other activities in addition to watching the exhilarating action.
What should I wear to watch skijoring?
- Warm layers: Dress in layers to stay warm and comfortable.
- Waterproof outerwear: A waterproof jacket and pants are essential to stay dry.
- Gloves and hat: Keep your extremities warm.
- Goggles or sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the sun and snow glare.
Tip: Keep in mind that if you are standing close to the action, you may be in the path of flying ice or snow spray from the horse’s pounding hooves. Dress appropriately.
Experience SW Colorado’s Skijoring
Skijoring is among Southwest Colorado’s unmissable winter events, merging the competitive equestrian and skiing communities. Come for the action, stay for the fun.
