We are pleased to bring you the 46th annual Lake Louise to Banff Loppet & Relay on Saturday, January 17th, 2026 (back-up date due to inclement conditions is Jan24th). Start time for all categories is 10h00 on Lake Louise. Finish line is at Castle Junction. Total course length is 42km. Please note: course adjustments are made to include a 6-km total out and back section to on Moraine Lake Road; turnaround point will be flagged and signed. Review all course maps prior to race day at: Loppet.ca/coursedescription

We are humbled by the opportunity to host this event on the traditional lands of the Treaty 7 signatories who have always been and continue to be of this place ; the Stoney Nakoda nations of Bearspaw, Chiniki and Goodstoney; Tsuut'ina First Nation; the Blackfoot Confederacy consisting of the Siksika, Kainai and Piikani as well as home to the Rocky View District of Otipmisiwak Métis Nation of Alberta.

Current Alberta Health Services precautions will be followed. In the event of an event cancellation due to changes in gathering protocols from the provincial government, we will fully refund your registration fees.

The course options are as follows:

Solo Skiers: 42km (Lake Louise to Castle Junction)

Relay Skiers (2-4 per team): Leg 1 - 17km (LL to Campround Rail Xing), Leg 2 - 11km (Campround Rail Xing to Baker Creek), Leg 3 - 10km (Baker Creek to Castle Lookout), Leg 4 - 4km (Castle Lookout to Castle Junction). Course description here

There is one time cutoff. Racers must make it to the Baker Creek trailhead by 1:45pm (3.75hrs after the start, 30km) or forfeit their timing chip and bib. You may continue to ski as a member of the public but are no longer a race participant.

Registering for the Solo OR Team Costume Category can be made via email photo submissions to lltobanffloppet@gmail.com. Submissions must be made by 17h00 on Saturday, Jan17th, 2026 (race day!). Please include a name for your costume or team.

The Awards Banquet will be held at the Rundlestone Lodge (not the Banff Centre) from 5-7pm. There will be light appetizers and canned cocktails.

Note: the Loppet supports the inclusion of all genders; 'women' and 'men' category selection include those who identify as woman/girl, man/boy, trans, non-binary or gender fluid respectively. All are welcome to participate.