SPONSORED

Looking for a New Winter Activity? Try Skijoring in Bear Lake

Feb 7, 2023, 9:04 AM | Updated: Apr 14, 2023, 12:18 pm

Skier being towed by a rider on a horse. Skijoring....

Photo: Adobe Stock

This article about skijoring is sponsored by the Bear Lake Convention & Visitors Bureau. Participate in Skijoring the Bear on February 20th, 2023. 


What is skijoring?

Skijoring is when someone on skis is pulled by a horse, dog, animal, or motor vehicle. The driver leads the skiers through an obstacle course over jumps, hoops, and gates. Almost like waterskiing, this winter sport started often over frozen lakes. It originated in Norway and comes from the Norwegian word skikjøring, which means “ski driving”. 

The activity was initially used as a mode of transportation, but now it is mostly a competitive sport. Competitions started in the early 1900s with the Nordic Games and were featured in the Olympic sports in 1928 in Switzerland. That is the only time in history it has been featured in the Olympics so far. 

It became a popular activity in the Northeastern US as early as 1915. Then, by the 30s to 50s, it became a popular mountain town sport in places such as Jackson, WY, and Steamboat Springs, CO. 

Though it is still a relatively obscure sport, the popularity of skijoring is rising, and reindeer races are still held in Tromso, Norway; Inari, Finland; and Nadym, Russia. There is a bid to include them if the winter games end up in Salt Lake in 2030 or 2034. Even if it doesn’t end up as a competition, it will likely be honored through an event or ceremony.  

Skijoring participant pulled by a horse in a snowy obstacle course

Photo: Adobe Stock

What do you need for skijoring?

To try your own hand at this winter sport, you need to figure out the method of transportation, whether that be a horse, snowmobile, or something else, and gather your own ski equipment. Alpine and cross-country skis both work and no poles are needed since your hands will be holding onto a rope. Be sure to wear a helmet for protection and warm layers to maintain your body temperature. 

In addition, you should use a well-fitting harness for the animal, a comfortable belt on the skier’s body, a bungee cord, a long rope, and a quick-release option for both the rider and driver in case of a fall.  

Wondering how to start skijoring?

The best way to learn how to skijor is to attend an event and participate as a rider! Bear Lake hosts an annual competition to satisfy your itch to participate. Riders of all levels are welcome, as long as you bring your own equipment. Even if you don’t feel like skijoring, it’s a fun sport to watch, and you’ll have a great time cheering on the contestants. 

This year the event will be hosted at Heritage Park & Garden City Pond in Garden City, Utah. The game will take place on February 20th, 2023, and runs from 9 am to 4 pm. There will be prizes for contestants and a fun time for all! 

Event Schedule for Bear Lake Skijoring event. Details below image

Photo: Visit Bear Lake

Here are the details: 

  • Sign up or check in between 8-9 am
  • The race starts at 9 am
  • $100 entry fee
  • Free entry for spectators
  • The race has four divisions: Open, novice, senior youth 14-18 and junior youth 13 and younger

The event is brought to you by MW Quarter Horses, Bear Lake CVD, and the Bear Lake Valley Chamber. Find out more details about the event and register here.

Related articles: 

This is a sponsored article brought to you by KSL News Radio in conjunction with the advertiser. The advertiser paid a fee to promote this article and may have influenced or authored the content. The views expressed in this article are those of the advertiser and do not necessarily reflect those of KSL News Radio, its parent company, or its staff.

We want to hear from you.

Have a story idea or tip? Send it to the KSL NewsRadio team here.

Today’s Top Stories

Sponsored

close up of rose marvel saliva blooms in purple...

Shannon Cavalero

Drought Tolerant Perennials for Utah

The best drought tolerant plants for Utah can handle high elevations, alkaline soils, excessive exposure to wind, and use of secondary water.

11 months ago

Group of cheerful team members high fiving each other...

Visit Bear Lake

How To Plan a Business Retreat in Bear Lake This Spring

Are you wondering how to plan a business retreat this spring? Read our sample itinerary to plan a team getaway to Bear Lake.

12 months ago

Cheerful young woman writing an assignment while sitting at desk between two classmates during clas...

BYU EMBA at the Marriott School of Business

Hear it Firsthand: 6 Students Share Their Executive MBA Experience at BYU’s Marriott School of Business

The Executive MBA program at BYU offers great opportunities. Hear experiences straight from students enrolled in the program.

1 year ago

For the second year, Utah Transit Authority (UTA) will be hosting “My BeUTAHful” art competitio...

Elizabeth Weiler

Win a UTA pass, art supplies and gift cards in student art competition

For the second year, Utah Transit Authority (UTA) will be hosting “My BeUTAHful” art competition. From now until March 20, students k-12 may submit their original art following the theme "Imagine + Lead + Change".

1 year ago

Banner with Cervical Cancer Awareness Realistic Ribbon...

Intermountain Health

Five Common Causes of Cervical Cancer – and What You Can Do to Lower Your Risk

January is National Cervical Cancer Awareness month and cancer experts at Intermountain Health are working to educate women about cervical cancer.

1 year ago

Kid holding a cisco fish at winterfest...

Bear Lake Convention and Visitors Bureau

Get Ready for Fun at the 2023 Bear Lake Monster Winterfest

The Bear Lake Monster Winterfest is an annual weekend event jam-packed full of fun activities the whole family can enjoy.

1 year ago

Looking for a New Winter Activity? Try Skijoring in Bear Lake