Pole Creek Challenge
When is Pole Creek Challenge?
Pole Creek Challenge takes place on Sunday, February 1, 2026 in Buffalo, WY.
What distances does Pole Creek Challenge offer?
Pole Creek Challenge offers 8 events: 5K Classic Ski Race (Individual), 5K Skate Ski Race (Individual), 10K Classic Ski Race (Individual), 10K Skate Ski Race (Individual), 20K Classic Ski Race (Individual), 20K Skate Ski Race (Individual), Family Pricing (Up to 4 in One Family), Ski/Snowshoe Total Distance Challenge, Feb. 1-28.
| Event | Distance | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5K Classic Ski Race (Individual) | 3.0 mi | $30.00 | Register |
| 5K Skate Ski Race (Individual) | 3.0 mi | $30.00 | Register |
| 10K Classic Ski Race (Individual) | 6.0 mi | $30.00 | Register |
| 10K Skate Ski Race (Individual) | 6.0 mi | $30.00 | Register |
| 20K Classic Ski Race (Individual) | 12.0 mi | $40.00 | Register |
| 20K Skate Ski Race (Individual) | 12.0 mi | $40.00 | Register |
| Family Pricing (Up to 4 in One Family) | — | $75.00 | Register |
| Ski/Snowshoe Total Distance Challenge, Feb. 1-28 | — | $30.00 | Register |
How much does Pole Creek Challenge cost?
Registration for Pole Creek Challenge starts at $30.00. Prices vary by event distance.
Where is Pole Creek Challenge held?
Pole Creek Challenge is held in Buffalo, WY at Pole Creek XCountry Ski Area.
About Pole Creek Challenge
A recreational race for cross-country skiers. Offering 5K, 10K, and 20K distances for both skate ski and classic techniques. Online registration for 5K and 10K will be open through Wednesday, February 25. On-site race day registration will be available for the 5K and 10K at an increased cost.
In our 3rd year for 2026: 20K Skate and Classic Races. This is our third year including this longer distance race. In order for us to manage logistics, you MUST register in advance for the 20K. There will be NO on-site registration for this event. We will have a 5-person minimum. If we do not have enough entrants, we will offer to convert your registration to another event. Start time for this race is currently planned for 9 AM.
For those who don't have the Need for Speed, we also offer a Total Distance Challenge: ski or snowshoe the most cumulative miles between February 1-28. You can upload your mileage here on RunSignUp.
Paper registration forms are available by emailing powderpassnordic@gmail.com
The 2026 Race will run clockwise around the Inside Loop and Bull Moose trails. Scroll down to see a Course Map! Please arrive no later than 9:30 AM for the 5K and 10K races to pick up your bib and for race instructions. Arrive no later than 8:30 AM for the 20K race. The 20K will be two laps of the 10K course, and there will be an aid station halfway through the course, near the starting line.
Race Course
See map below. In even years (2026, 2028, etc.), the course is run clockwise. In odd years (2027, 2029, etc.), the course is run counter-clockwise. The 20K course consists of two laps of the 10K course.