Last updated August 23, 2024--
As an avid Nordic ski racer, the allure of the Boulder Mountain Tour (BMT) in Sun Valley, Idaho, is impossible to resist. Renowned as the premier cross-country ski race in the Western United States, the BMT offers a unique combination of challenging terrain, stunning scenery, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it a must-do event for both seasoned racers and enthusiastic tourers alike. Organized by the Boulder Mountain Tour Ltd., a nonprofit dedicated to promoting cross-country skiing, this race is a celebration of the sport, attracting participants of all ages and skill levels. It also serves as a Birkebeiner Qualifier Series event, adding an extra layer of prestige and excitement for competitive skiers. Strambecco rates the Boulder Mountain Tour as one of the Best Nordic Ski Races in the Rocky Mountains and takes place in Sun Valley, Idaho.
Event & Course Info
Staged on the historic Harriman Trail within the pristine Sawtooth National Forest, the Boulder Mountain Tour is an event that seamlessly blends top-level competition with a community-oriented vibe. With two race distances—the 34-kilometer Full Boulder and the 15-kilometer Charley Course Half Boulder—the event caters to a wide range of skiers, from World Cup-caliber athletes to those simply looking to enjoy the beauty of Idaho's backcountry. What truly sets the BMT apart is its inclusive spirit. Racers are divided into seven waves for the Full Boulder, based on their previous race times or comparable marathon distances, ensuring that everyone competes with others of similar abilities. The race's capped field—800 skiers for the Full Boulder and 200 for the Half Boulder—creates a sense of exclusivity, while also maintaining an intimate and friendly environment.
The Boulder Mountain Tour's 34-kilometer Full Boulder course is a Nordic skier's dream, offering a mix of challenging climbs, exhilarating descents, and breathtaking vistas. The race begins at the Senate Meadows at Galena Lodge and follows the Harriman Trail, a route known for its pristine grooming and varied terrain. Skiers will traverse a rolling landscape, with gentle climbs that accumulate to an approximate total elevation gain of 1,200 feet. As the trail progresses, the terrain becomes more demanding, with steeper climbs and sharper turns that test both endurance and technical skills. The final stretch towards the finish line at the Sawtooth National Recreation Area headquarters, at around 6,000 feet, offers a thrilling descent that rewards skiers with the satisfaction of a well-earned finish. For those opting for the 15-kilometer Charley Course Half Boulder, the race begins at Baker Creek and merges with the Full Boulder course for the final stretch. This option is perfect for skiers who prefer a shorter but still challenging race, with approximately 500 feet of elevation gain.
This is more than just a race, the Boulder Mountain Tour is an event that encapsulates the spirit of Nordic skiing. Whether you're a competitive skier aiming for a personal best or a recreational enthusiast looking to soak in the stunning scenery of Sun Valley, the BMT offers an unforgettable experience that is well worth the trip. And with the event's commitment to supporting cross-country skiing through its nonprofit status, participating is contributing to the greater good of the sport.
Area Accommodations & Things to Do
Coming soon!
Related Events
Boulder Mountain Tour is a part of the Birkebeiner Qualifier Series. The American Birkebeiner, often referred to as the “Birkie,” is the largest cross-country ski race in North America. Held annually in late February in northern Wisconsin, it stretches from Cable to Hayward, covering 50 kilometers for skate skiers and 55 kilometers for classic skiers. This iconic race, inspired by the historic Norwegian Birkebeiner, has become a cornerstone of the global cross-country skiing calendar. Qualifying for the Birkie is a goal for many skiers, and there are several key events in the Birkebeiner Qualifier Series.
Multi-sport athletes looking for other premier races and events in Idaho and the broader Rocky Mountain region can take a peek at all of our related Strambecco Best rated event guides:
