Last updated August 11, 2024 - NOTE: 2025 date is not confirmed
If you’re passionate about Nordic skiing and have a love for quirky, fun-filled events, the Oosik Classic Ski Race and Tour annual ski race in Talkeetna, Alaska, should be at the top of your list. This isn’t just any ski race—it’s a celebration of the end of the ski season, the arrival of spring, and the vibrant Nordic skiing community that calls Alaska home. Hosted by the Denali Nordic Ski Club, the Oosik Classic is their biggest and only fundraiser of the year, drawing skiers from across the state and beyond. Strambecco rates Oosik Classic Ski Race and Tour as one of the Best Nordic Ski Races in the Northwest.
Event & Course Info
The Oosik Classic Ski Race and Tour is renowned not only for its challenging course but also for the spirit of fun that permeates the event. With a course that changes every year, skiers have the opportunity to tackle new terrain annually. Participants can choose between three distances—10K, 25K, and 50K—all in the classic skiing style. The event has grown from its modest beginnings in 2004, when just 200 skiers participated, to now being capped at 800 skiers; selling out every year. The Oosik Classic isn’t just a race; it’s a community event that fills the entire town of Talkeetna with energy and excitement. The weekend-long celebration features live music, local festivities, and an afterparty at the Denali Arts Council, ensuring that the fun doesn’t stop at the finish line.
The 50K course is the longest and most demanding, designed for those who relish a challenge. It’s a true test of endurance, with varying terrain that can include everything from rolling hills to flat stretches, all surrounded by the breathtaking Alaskan wilderness. The 25K course is a popular choice for those looking for a middle-distance challenge, offering a blend of technical skiing and scenic views. The 10K course is perfect for those new to the sport or looking for a shorter, more relaxed experience.
One of the hallmarks of the Oosik Classic is the community-driven spirit, evident in the “bandit aid stations” that pop up along the route. These unofficial but enthusiastic pit stops are manned by volunteers who provide snacks, hydration, and plenty of encouragement to skiers as they make their way to the finish. The support doesn’t end there—mechanical and SAG support are available, ensuring that every skier has the best possible experience, no matter what challenges they encounter on the course.
Unlike many other races, the Oosik Classic places a strong emphasis on fun, and this is reflected in the post-race celebrations. After you cross the finish line, the festivities continue at the Denali Arts Council, where an afterparty featuring live music and a lively atmosphere awaits. The weekend-long celebration also extends to the Fairview, ensuring that both racers and spectators have a memorable experience in Talkeetna. Awards are given to top finishers, but in true Oosik spirit, the event is less about competition and more about community, creativity, and enjoying the last of the winter skiing season. Special discounts are available for skiers aged 70 and over, as well as those 17 and under, making the event accessible to a wide range of participants.
Whether you’re a competitive skier or someone who enjoys skiing for the pure fun of it, the Oosik Classic Ski Race and Tour offers an unparalleled experience in one of Alaska’s most charming towns. So grab your skis, get creative with your costume, and prepare for a weekend of unforgettable fun!
Area Accommodations & Things to Do
Coming soon!
Related Events
Multi-sport athletes looking for other premier races and events in Alaska and the broader Northwest region can take a peek at all of our related Strambecco Best rated event guides:
- Best Gravel Cycling Race Events in the Northwest
- Best Mountain Bike Race Events in the Northwest
- Best Road Cycling Race Events in the Northwest
- Best Trail Running Race Events in the Northwest
- Best Nordic Ski Races in the Northwest
