Race of the Methow

Jan 31-Feb 1, 2026 at the McCabe Trails in Winthrop, WA

MVNSEF’s signature race!

2026 Race Notice

FAQ

  • TBD

  • TBD

    *Any start list change requests must be submitted by TEAM CAPTAINS OR COACHES ONLY by email by 12:00 pm Noon on Friday, January 30 by emailing events@mvnsef.org.

  • Friday, Jan 30: 

    • Timing TBD: Course open for inspection

    • Timing TBD: Coaches Meeting (virtual)

    Saturday, Jan 31: Sprint - Freestyle

    • 7:30 am: Courses open for inspection

    • 9:00 am: Races begin (details TBD)

    Sunday, Feb 1: Mass Start - Classic

    • 7:30 am: Courses open for inspection

    • 9:00 am: Races begin (details TBD)

  • The race takes place at the McCabe Trails in the scenic town of Winthrop, WA, right next to Liberty Bell High School.

    Link to directions

    Map of Parking

    Overview map of McCabe Trails

  • Coming Soon

  • For the Junior National Qualifier categories, the wax call for this weekend is Swix HS8 (solid or liquid) as detailed in rule 5.A.7 in the PNW Nordic Competition Manual. 

    Competitors in younger categories (U14 and younger, community races) may use a wax of similar level or less expensive of another brand if HS8 or PS8 are not readily available.

  • Weather conditions can fluctuate, please check the NOAA forecast here.

  • If you are a USSS member and you’re trying to qualify for junior nationals, you want to register for the JNQ. Anyone else, we have a junior open class in our other race and we’d LOVE to have you join: racing is fun!

  • There are numerous hotels and vacation rental homes in the area. The Winthrop Chamber of Commerce and Okanogan Country websites are great resources.

    If you’re looking for a vacation rental in the area you can find some great options on the Methow Reservations Website.

  • Race fee for JNQ races is $40 per race (skiers racing both days would pay $80). Deadline for registration is Wednesday, January 28 at 11:59p.m.

    Race fee for Community Races U12 and older is $25 per race (skiers racing both days would pay $50). Deadline for registration is Wednesday, January 28 at 11:59p.m.

    Race fee for Community U12 and Under Races is $15. Deadline for registration is Wednesday, January 28 at 11:59p.m.

  • Junior National Qualifier

    The Race of the Methow is a Junior National Qualifier (JNQ) for USSS registered U16-U20+ age group skiers. When you register in those categories, you must have a USSS membership to compete. (Please have your USSS number ready). If you are in those age groups but do not have a membership, or simply want to race for fun, sign up for our “everyone else” race!

    Register

  • Everyone Else!

    Come experience our favorite trails! We have options for adults and kids alike!

    Register