The Great Ski Race

On March 1, 2026, skiers from across the West gather for The Great Ski Race, a 30-kilometer cross-country endurance event that has defined Tahoe winters since 1977. The course runs from Tahoe City to Truckee, threading through the high Sierra on groomed trails, ungroomed backcountry sections, and the occasional steep climb that separates the prepared from the hopeful. More than 600 racers typically compete, ranging from Olympic-level skiers chasing course records to first-timers simply trying to finish before the cutoff. Spectators line key sections of the route—especially the final stretch into Truckee—where cowbells, cheers, and live commentary create the kind of atmosphere that makes even exhausted racers smile.

Who Should Go

Competitive cross-country skiers and endurance athletes will appreciate the challenge, while recreational skiers who’ve been training all winter can use this as a goal race. Spectators don’t need any skiing ability—watching from the finish line or cheering at designated spots along the course is part of the fun. Families with older kids often make this a weekend trip, combining race day with other Tahoe activities. If you’re traveling with a racer, plan to spend the day moving between viewing points and meeting them at the finish with warm clothes and congratulations.

Logistics and Timing

• Race start is typically between 8-9 AM in Tahoe City; finish times range from under 2 hours for elite skiers to 4-5 hours for recreational racers
• Registration closes several weeks before race day and often sells out—sign up early if you’re racing
• Entry fees vary depending on when you register; pricing includes race number, timing chip, and post-race meal
• Parking at both Tahoe City (start) and Truckee (finish) fills quickly; arrive by 7 AM or use shuttle services provided by race organizers
• Spectators can drive the course and watch from designated areas; check the race website for best viewing spots
• Early March weather is unpredictable: expect temps from the low 20s°F at start to the 40s°F by afternoon, with possible snow, sun, or wind
• If you’re racing, pack extra layers, gloves, and nutrition; if you’re spectating, bring binoculars, hot drinks, and warm boots

Plan Your Race Weekend

Stay in Tahoe City or Truckee to minimize race-morning logistics—both towns offer quick access to the start and finish lines. After the race, warm up with lunch at Moody’s Bistro Bar & Beats in Truckee (open since 2007, serving California comfort food and craft cocktails). The next day, give tired legs a break with a lakeside walk at Commons Beach in Tahoe City, where the water is calm, the views stretch across the entire basin, and you can replay your race highlights with other finishers. Find your stay on Lake.com, where North Shore rentals put you close to both the course and the water, making it easy to balance race weekend with quiet recovery time by the lake.