Photos/video: Silverton Skijoring - The Durango Herald

Silverton’s historic main street came alive on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026, as riders and skiers thundered down a snow‑covered course in the town’s annual Skijoring competition.

What happened on the course

Competitors in the sport division paired with their horses and raced against the clock. Cassidy Berry on Sweet William hauled Hayden Burn, while Phoebe Alverson rode Ozzie with Maddison Ostergren as her skier. Other duos included Dannielle Thomas and Rookie with Brian Gardiner, and Jasmine Wilson on Joey pulling Logan Shreck.

Riders navigated jumps and gates, with skiers launching off ramps and chasing dangling rings for bonus points. Event president Jim Harper was on hand to field questions, and organizer Richard Weber supplied extra snowmaking equipment from Telluride to ensure a fast, groomed surface.

Why the event matters

Silverton Skijoring blends Nordic skiing, horse racing and a festive community atmosphere, drawing participants and spectators from across Colorado. The race is a key winter attraction for the town, offering free public viewing and supporting local businesses through associated parties, such as the derby‑style gathering where Claire Taylor sported a mint‑julep hat.

Beyond the thrills, the event showcases the region’s ability to host niche winter sports, reinforcing Silverton’s reputation as a destination for adventurous travelers.[durangoherald.com]

Did You Know? Silverton Skijoring has been a recurring winter tradition for over a decade, with the 2025 edition described as “one of Colorado’s most exciting winter things to do” and featuring horse‑towed skiers navigating obstacles on a 2.5‑block street course.[visitcoloradopeaks.com]

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter, senior sports analyst, notes that the event’s blend of equestrian skill and ski technique creates a unique competitive dynamic. The reliance on snowmaking equipment highlights the organizers’ commitment to reliable conditions, which can be crucial for maintaining participant safety and audience enjoyment in a high‑altitude setting.

What may come next

The success of this year’s race could encourage organizers to expand the spectator experience, perhaps adding more themed parties or extending the competition to additional classes. Continued collaboration with nearby ski resorts for snow production may also become a standard practice, ensuring the course remains race‑ready even in marginal weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is skijoring?

Skijoring is a sport where a skier is pulled by a horse (or sometimes a motorcycle) down a snow‑covered course, navigating jumps, gates and rings while racing against the clock.

When does the Silverton Skijoring event take place?

The competition is held annually in early February; this year’s race occurred on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026.

Who organizes the event?

Silverton Skijoring is overseen by its president, Jim Harper, with event logistics supported by organizers such as Richard Weber, who arranged snowmaking equipment from Telluride.

What other winter adventures would you like to see added to Silverton’s seasonal lineup?

Photos/video: Silverton Skijoring – The Durango Herald