Skijoring coming to the National Western Stock Show in 2027?

Skiers and horses will share the snow in north Denver this January as the National Western Stock Show announced Nov. 4 it will add skijoring to its 2027 lineup, with an inaugural invitational competition on Jan. 18, 2027.

Skijoring pits a skier holding onto a tow rope attached to a horse and rider, and races at high speed over a snow-covered course, passing through gates, clearing jumps and working around obstacles.

According to the National Western Stock Show, the sport demands coordination, precision and trust among horse, rider and skier, and it has deep roots in the Mountain West.

Notable highlights:

• The competition runs 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 18, 2027
• 50 invited teams of horsemen and women and skiers will compete
• The course runs along Betty Cram Drive on the west side of the Stock Show grounds, between The Legacy and the CSU Spur buildings
• Snowmaking is scheduled to begin in late November
• Skijoring is included with that day’s grounds admission: $31 for adults and $10 for kids

What spectators can expect

The National Western Stock Show describes the event as “a high-energy competition.” Along with the racing, spectators can expect food and drinks, event-day giveaways and a chance to meet competitors after the competition and awards ceremony.

Grounds admission also covers the rest of the Stock Show’s offerings that day, including livestock exhibitions, Western shopping, food and entertainment.

About the 2027 Stock Show

The 2027 National Western Stock Show, presented by CommonSpirit Health, runs Jan. 9-24 and marks the event’s 121st anniversary.

The National Western is a Denver-based charitable organization that supports youth education, scholarships, and livestock, equestrian, farming, ranching and animal stewardship programs. It also operates The Legacy.