Last updated August 11, 2024--NOTE: 2025 event details not available yet
The Ozbaldy race is for all Nordic skiing enthusiasts looking to qualify in the Birkebeiner Qualifier. Located in Whittier, Washington, the unique charm of this event calls to many people each winter. It’s the final race in the Kongsberger Ski Club’s series and has earned its place as western Washington’s only cross-country ski marathon. The event, steeped in tradition, challenges participants with its demanding course. Strambecco rates the Ozbaldy as one of the Best Nordic Ski Races in the Northwest.
Event & Course Info
The Ozbaldy is the final race in the Kongsberger Ski Club’s series and has earned its place as western Washington’s only cross-country ski marathon. The event, steeped in tradition, challenges participants with its demanding course while also offering options for skiers of all abilities, including a 10k race and a 50k para-ski distance open to all age groups. The race takes place at the Cabin Creek Sno-Park, nestled just east of Snoqualmie Pass. This location, with its serene snow-covered trails, provides a quintessential Pacific Northwest backdrop of the Cascade Mountains. The fact that the event is hosted on US Forest Service land under a special use permit adds a layer of exclusivity, making it feel like a hidden gem in the world of Nordic skiing.
The Ozbaldy course is laid out on the Cabin Creek trail system, encompassing the Road, Berg-Viking, and Boundary loop trails. The 50k race is not for the faint-hearted and consists of five laps of this loop, making it a grueling test of endurance. Each lap challenges skiers with rolling terrain that demands both physical strength and technical skill. The course’s elevation gain is significant over the 50 kilometers, requiring careful pacing and energy management. Although aid stations are strategically placed along the course, it’s advisable for participants to carry additional food or drinks to sustain themselves throughout the five laps.
For those looking for a less intense challenge, the event also offers a 10k race that covers one lap of the course. This option is perfect for those new to marathon skiing or for anyone seeking a shorter, yet still challenging, experience. The race day is filled with excitement, not just for the participants but also for spectators. Non-racing skiers can watch the action from various points along the trail or at the start/lap/finish area. Whether you’re a seasoned racer looking for your next challenge or a Nordic skiing enthusiast, the Ozbaldy is a race that deserves a spot on your winter calendar. The mix of challenging terrain, community spirit, and the beautiful backdrop of the Cascade Mountains makes it an experience unlike any other.
Area Accommodations & Things to Do
Coming soon!
Related Events
Ozbaldy 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 Washington and the broader Northwest region can take a peek at all of our related Strambecco Best rated event guides:
