Registration is now open for: The Palouse Divide to Bald Mountain Lookout Loppet 2026

When: February 28, 2026

Start time (from trailhead): 8:30–9:30AM

Distance: 18 miles, roundtrip

Estimated skiing time: 6 hours

In Scandinavia, a loppet is a long-distance, non-competitive group ski. As in years past, the Palouse Divide Nordic Ski Club is planning our own loppet – from the Palouse Divide trailhead to the Bald Mountain Lookout Tower. This year, due to low snowpack and downed timber, there are some key differences—be sure to read this entire message!

This 18-mile loppet will be a fun and challenging outing for fit, experienced skiers. It is not a race but a tour to be completed at participants’ own pace. Participation is limited to 40 skiers.

Our amazing team of groomers will be grooming the entire route, which entails a 9-mile, 1715foot climb to the top of Bald Mountain and back. Be prepared for changing and colder weather. We estimate that skiers in good physical shape will take 6 hours to complete the entire trip.

Participation in the loppet is free, but we will gladly accept donations to help us continue to ensure home-town Nordic skiing on the Palouse. The club will have hot drinks and soup at the lookout tower for participants.

Due to the low and variable snowpack, conditions are uncertain. We will make the final decision two days before the event (Thursday evening) and will send the notification via our Groups.IO mailing list and on our website; if you haven’t received a notice by Thursday morning please contact us at palousedividenordic@gmail.com. Register in advance by completing the registration form at this link: https://form.jotform.com/260214920163144