The easiest way to try out the sport is to come to one of MVB’s Try Biathlon events, held twice each winter at the Mazama range.  In Try Biathlon, skiers interested in sampling biathlon can learn the basics in a short session. We teach about equipment, safety and technique before participants have the opportunity to try shooting at rest and then alternating between skiing a short loop and shooting. Try Biathlon is open to skiers age 9 and older, and no previous shooting experience is required. Visit our Events calendar for more details on our Christmas break Try Biathlon.

Adults wanting to continue with biathlon are encouraged to take a 2-day Newcomer Camp with Washington Biathlon Association (WBA) at their winter or summer venue. The Newcomer Camps give much more instruction and advice than we are able to do at Try Biathlon, and upon completion you will be able to participate in competitions. WBA is the most active club in Washington for organizing competitions, hosting 4-5 weekends of racing in both winter and summer/fall for biathletes of all ages. However, because their winter and summer ranges are only semi-permanent, there are no regular practice opportunities available through WBA.

Methow Valley Biathlon’s ranges (Mazama and LBHS) are permanent and make possible regular practice and training.  During most of the year MVB offers practice sessions 1-2 times per week for adults. These sessions are self-directed (no formal coaching available) and conducted under the supervision of a Range Safety Officer. To participate in MVB adult sessions you must own or borrow your equipment, have memberships in USBA, MVN, MVB, and have completed USBA’s Basic Rifle Safety Course.  The respective cost of these annual memberships for an individual is $75, $40, $50.

This year MVB is organizing one race, our annual Chasing the Sun event at the LBHS range/McCabe Trails, on Feb. 21, 2026. In 2026 we will also put on a dryland race in October with running and/or mountain biking as the exercise mode. MVB masters regularly travel for biathlon, to WBA races at Stevens Pass, as well as to out-of-state events in British Columbia, Montana, Utah, Alberta, and Wisconsin.

Adults getting into biathlon sometimes underestimate the importance of the skiing side of the sport. Don’t overlook your skiing when thinking about learning and improving!  There are many opportunities and class formats available in the Methow Valley, including clinics and weekly classes offered by MVNSEF and public lessons offered by Methow Valley Ski School.  An especially fun and effective option is the Sun Mountain Camp in December.

Please contact Scott Waichler for more info on masters biathlon with MVB.