The Heathen Challenge

Get ready for the 2026 edition of Colorado's longest continuously running ski mountaineering race! The Heathen is back, and it's taking place at the stunning Sunlight Mountain Resort, brought to you by Cripple Creek Backcountry and Strafe Outerwear. Whether you're a seasoned skimo athlete or a newcomer looking to test your limits, this is your chance to move through the mountains and be part of the vibrant skimo community.

Registration closes at 4 PM on Saturday, February 7th, so don’t miss your chance to join the fun!

The Heathen is famous for maximizing backcountry skiing and skinning, promising a challenge for everyone. Whether you’ve conquered countless races or are testing your skills for the first time, we guarantee this race will thrill you. Expect to master tricky transitions, tear downhill on skinny skis, and push your endurance to new heights!

The Elite Race
Designed for the seasoned racer or backcountry skiing fanatic, the Elite division covers approximately 11 miles and 5,500 feet of grueling skinning, skiing, and boot packing. Only the toughest Type A personalities need apply—this course will test your physical and mental limits.

The Rec Race
Looking to break into the sport or just want a great workout? The Rec division covers around 6 miles and 2,000 feet of elevation gain, offering a serious challenge even for weekend warriors. Don't be fooled by the shorter course—this race is still no walk in the park.

Please note: Course maps are subject to change depending on snow conditions and other factors, so mileage and vertical gain may vary. Check out the provided maps for a general idea of what to expect.

Don't wait, register now and take on the Heathen in 2026!

Bib Pick Up

Bib pick up will be from 5-7pm at Cripple Creek Backcountry in Carbondale on Saturday evening the 7th and the morning of the race starting at 7:00am in the main Sunlight Lodge.

General Rules and Information:

The race director reserves the right to delay the start, alter the course or cancel the race based on snow, weather and safety conditions.
Racers are required to abide by all directives of the race staff and course marshals.
The race will take place on an operational ski area and all racers are required to comply with any directions or directives of the ski area staff.
Racers are to give the right of way to the customers of the ski area, failure to do so will result in an immediate DQ.
On uphill portions, racers are to stay in the established skin track or within 5 feet of the course markings. On the downhill, racers are required to stay within 30 feet of course markings.
Transitions must occur within 20 feet of transition point.
Racers agree to possible equipment check before race and at the finish line.
All racers regardless of category will have a ski retention device that can include brakes or a leash.
No lightweight Nordic gear is allowed in either category.
Helmets are required to be worn during the ENTIRETY of the race. (These can be bike, ski, climbing or ski mountaineering specific helmets).
If you opt not to finish the race you MUST check in at a course marshal or at the finish area. Otherwise we will be out there looking for you.
Racers should be prepared for variable weather including but not limited to snow, high winds and cold temperatures.