Birkie Saturday – February 13, 2027
7 km Birkie Fun Ski
This recreational untimed ski event is designed for beginner to intermediate youth and adult skiers.
Course Description
This 7 km cross-country ski course is a loop starting from the field east of the Waskehegan Stadium area. The loop features rolling hills and winding trails beside beaver ponds.
Program Guide
Read the full program guide for all details
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| Registration Fees until | 30 Nov 2026 | 31 Dec 2026 | 31 Jan 2027 | 10 Feb 2027 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 km Birkie Fun Ski | $25 | $25 | $25 | $25 |
| All-in incl. fees | $32.42 | $32.42 | $32.42 | $32.42 |
What is included in your registration?
- Classic technique ski tracks in majestic Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area, approximately 48 km east of Edmonton
- Race bib
- Food and drinks at finish line
- Bus shuttles between Sherwood Park, Ukrainian Village and Waskehegan
- Ski Patrollers along the course and Sweeps at the end
- Certified medical personnel at finish line
- Love and admiration of dedicated volunteers
- Free Birkie T-Shirt
Details
Start Line & Finish Area
The 7 km Birkie Fun Ski starts and finishes at the Waskehegan Staging Area in Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area. Access to the start is behind the Festival Tent, past the picnic shelter to a big field. Plan on a 10-minute walk to the start line and place yourself in a lane based on your estimated skiing time in the wave of your choice.
Start Times
2:05 7 km Closed
On the day
- Dress appropriately in layers and bring extra clothing and wax for changing weather.
- Bring a duffel bag or backpack to keep your warm clothing and other items in for use after the race. In your event package you will find a tag and zip tie to attach it to your clothing bag. It is very important to clearly mark your BIB NUMBER on your tag. You can leave it at the Clothing Tent in the Finish Line/Stadium Area.
- Snacks and coffee are available in the Festival Tent.
- Indoor washrooms are not available, but there will be outdoor portapotties.
- Pulks and sleds are allowed, but only at the back of the race.
Registration Package & Bib Pick-up
Registration package and bib pick up will take place at the Nordic Fair on February 13, 2026.
Age Limits
- Children 8–11 years of age must be registered with and accompanied by an adult guardian.
- Children under age 8 can be in a backpack or pulled in a pulk/sled. Please place your pulk or sled at the back of the start line up.
Parking and Shuttle
- No parking at the Short Start at the Waskahegan Staging Area. Skiers and spectators must park at Bethel Transit Terminal.
- Free shuttle buses run continuously between Bethel Transit Terminal and Waskahegan from 8:00 am until 5:45 pm. Buses leave when they are full (about every 10-15 minutes) and the ride takes approximately 30 minutes.
Training
The Birkie offers several xc ski training opportunities to get you ready for the Birkie.
