Six Races, Coast to Coast — Your 2026 Skimo Season Starts Here

Ski mountaineering racing in Canada continues to grow, and the 2026 season marks a major milestone: the largest and most geographically diverse Canada Cup Series yet. With six events spanning Alberta, British Columbia, and Québec, this year’s series brings new energy, new venues, and more opportunities for athletes at every level to experience the sport.

Whether you’re a first-time racer, a returning competitor, or part of the dedicated volunteer community that makes these events possible, the 2026 Canada Cup Series is your invitation to be part of Canada’s most exciting winter mountain sport.


What’s New for 2026

This season, we’re excited to welcome two new host venues:

Mont-Orford (QC)
A spectacular Eastern venue featuring a double race day — sprint events in the morning, followed by a headlamp-lit Individual race under the stars.

Cypress Mountain (West Vancouver, BC)
A new West Coast showcase for skimo, with steep terrain, big energy, and easy access for Lower Mainland athletes.

At Kimberley Alpine Resort, Northstar Skimo will return, as will long-time favourites Castle Mountain Skimo, The Ymir Climber at Whitewater Mountain Resort, and Steep Dreams at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort. Each will bring their own flavour, terrain, and community.


2026 Canada Cup Calendar

January 9–11, 2026

Castle Mountain Skimo Races — Alberta
Canadian National Championships
Vertical · Sprint · Individual


January 23–25, 2026

The Ymir Climber — Whitewater Ski Resort, Nelson BC
Vertical · Individual · Sprint


February 6–8, 2026

Northstar Skimo — Kimberley Alpine Resort, BC
Vertical · Sprint · Individual


February 21, 2026

Coupe des Trois Sommets – Mont Orford, QC
Sprint · Individual


February 28 – March 1, 2026

Cypress Mountain Skimo — West Vancouver, BC
Vertical · Individual [More information pending]


March 27–29, 2026

Steep Dreams — Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, Golden, BC
ISMF North American Championships
Vertical · Individual · Teams


Race Licences

To race in the Canada Cup Series, you’ll need either a single-event licence or a full-season Skimo Canada licence. Find out more here:


Why Race the Canada Cup?

The Canada Cup isn’t just a series — it’s a community.
Each event delivers:

  • A welcoming atmosphere for newcomers
  • Challenging, beautifully designed race courses
  • National-level competition for experienced athletes
  • A chance to meet, learn from, and train with Canada’s top skimo racers
  • Local après gatherings, awards celebrations, and volunteer camaraderie

Whether you enter a single Vertical or throw yourself into the full Series, you’ll find a supportive environment and the kind of shared experience that makes this sport so special.


Want to Help Shape the Series?

The Canada Cup is a community-driven effort. If you’re interested in volunteering, officiating, or even hosting an event in the future, we’d love to hear from you.

👉 Email us: chair@smcc.ski


Your 2026 Season Starts Now

With six races from January through March, the 2026 Canada Cup Series has something for every athlete. Pick your event, secure your licence, and get ready for a winter filled with climbs, transitions, descents, and some of the best energy in Canadian mountain sport.

See you on the start line.

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