Alley Loop takes place on Jan 30, 2026. That's in 4 days.

Where is Alley Loop located?

Alley Loop is held in Crested Butte, Colorado, United States.

What distances are available at Alley Loop?

Alley Loop offers the following distances: 42K, 21K, 10K, 5K, 3K, 1K.

How do I register for Alley Loop?

You can register for Alley Loop through the official registration page.

What is the typical weather for Alley Loop?

Based on historical data, you can expect temperatures between -5°F and 26°F on race day. There's approximately a 12% chance of precipitation.

Alley Loop (1K-42K) - Jan 30, 2026 | Crested Butte, CO

The Alley Loop, taking place on January 30-31, 2026, in the charming mountain town of Crested Butte, CO, offers a cross-country ski experience unlike any other. This renowned event is both a premier American Birkebeiner Qualifying race and Crested Butte's most celebrated costume party of the year, drawing skiers of all abilities to its festive atmosphere. With distances ranging from a challenging 42K to 21K, 10K, 5K, 3K, and 1K, there's a course for every participant, including shorter, gentler options for youth and adaptive athletes.

The unique course sets the Alley Loop apart, beginning and weaving through the snowy streets, quaint alleyways, and narrow bridges of downtown Crested Butte, often met with cheers from enthusiastic town revelers. After navigating the lively town section, racers transition to the pristine groomed tracks of the Crested Butte Nordic trail network, offering exhilarating vistas and a mix of rolling meadows, steep climbs, and descents, all at an invigorating altitude of nearly 9,000 feet. Typical race day conditions in late January present crisp mountain air, with highs around 26F and lows near -6F. Aid stations for longer races provide Honey Stingers, water, and electrolytes, though participants are encouraged to bring their own hydration to support the event's waste-free initiative. Beyond the official support, be prepared for impromptu "aid stations" set up by locals, often offering unique, spirited refreshments.

What truly makes the Alley Loop a "bucket list" event is its infectious energy and the strong sense of community it fosters. Costumes are not just encouraged but are an integral part of the experience, with participants embracing everything from superheroes to historical figures, adding a whimsical layer to this otherwise serious American Birkebeiner qualifier. Starting and finishing on Elk Avenue, the event culminates in an awards ceremony that recognizes both competitive achievements and the most outrageous costumes, ensuring a memorable and fun-filled weekend in the "Nordic Ski Capital of Colorado."