Ely Outdoor Enthusiasts to host annual Bristlecone Birkebeiner 

Snow or not, the Ely Outdoor Enthusiasts will host their annual Bristlecone Birkebeiner Winter Fest January 17, 2026. 

The organization stated, “The original Bristlecone Birkebeiner in Ely, Nevada, ran from 1983-1993. We brought this cross-country skiing event back to the community in 2014, but it was canceled due to lack of snow.  In 2015, we held our first successful event with a dusting of snow and four skiers and one trail runner! This event has continued to grow and is now better than ever! We have added trail running, for when there isn’t enough snow to ski, as well as snowshoe and fat bike events! Come join us for Nevada’s longest running cross-country ski event!”

There are several events community members are invited to partake in.

Snow Events:

• Long Course Cross-Country Ski – $40, 4.1-mile loop, starting at 8 a.m.
• Short Course Cross-Country Ski – $30, 1.5-mile loop, starting at 8:10 a.m.
• Fat Tire Bike – $40, the route will take place on the following trails: Birkebeiner, Atta Boy, Revenue, to Birkebeiner, starting at 8:30 a.m.
• Snowshoe – $30, 1.5-mile loop, starting at 8:35 a.m.
• NEW Birkie Kids’ Winter Games, $10, ages 3 and up, from 8 a.m. to approximately 10 a.m., or until the event ends 

The organization noted, “Sportsworld is offering $5 ski rental for this event.  They also have a few pairs of snowshoes to rent. Boot sizes are limited!”

No Snow Events:

• Long Course Trail Run – $40, 4.1 miles, starting at 8:05 a.m.
• Short Course Trail Run – $30, 1.5 miles, starting at 8:15 a.m.
• Fat Tire/Mountain Bike – $40, the route will take place on the following routes: Birkebeiner, Atta Boy, Revenue, to Birkebeiner, 5 miles, starting at 8 a.m.

There will be no same-day registration for any of the events, excluding the Birkie Kids’ Winter Games. All participants must be registered online before Jan. 15 at midnight. Package pickup will take place Jan. 16. Time and location are to be determined. 

To register, visit elyoutdoorenthusiasts.org.