Birkie Saturday – February 13, 2027
55 km with Pack Torskeklubben Birkebeiner
Skiers recreate the legend of the original Birkebeiner skiers by carrying the equivalent of the infant crown prince, a 5.5 kg (12 lb) pack.
Course Description
This point-to-point course rolls and winds through the scenic Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area, from the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village to the Waskehegan Staging Area.
Course Maps
Long Start Map
Long Start Venue Overview
Course Map
Finish Line
Elevation Profile
GPX File
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN YOUR REGISTRATION?
- Up to 55 km classic technique ski tracks in majestic Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area, approximately 48 km east of Edmonton
- Race bib, timing chip, and results/ranking uploaded to Zone4
- Food and drinks at finish line
- Water, snacks, and nutrition at 13, 31, and 55 km food stations
- Bus shuttles between Sherwood Park, Ukrainian Village and Waskahegan
- Medals for top three M/F in 13, 31 and 55 km events and age category medals description here
- Hand-made birch wood medals for short events
- Pin for 55 km skiers for each year of completion; medal for first time 55 km skiers
- Ski Patrollers along the course and Sweeps at the end
- Certified medical personnel at food stations and finish line
- Love and admiration of dedicated volunteers
World Loppet
Those registering for 31 and 55 km distances will have the option to have their results posted to the World Loppet for a $5 administration fee.
Details
Start Line & Finish Area
The 55 km with Pack Torkskeklubben Birkebeiner starts at the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village and finishes at the Waskahegan Staging Area. See maps above.
Start Times
8.45 Official Opening 55 km/ 31 km
9.00 Wave 1
9.10 Wave 2
9.20 Wave 3
9.30 Wave 4
9.40 Start 55 km/ 31 km Closed
Cut-Off and Finish Line Times
Station Name | Distances 55/31 km |
Blackfoot | 10:15am |
Outer Lake | 12:15pm |
Roundup | 1:45pm |
Central | 2:15pm |
Elk Push | 2:45pm |
Boundary | 4:15pm |
Booster | 4:45pm |
Last Chance (Meadow) | |
Finish Line | 5:15pm |
The Official Course Sweep and Medical Volunteers are authorized to remove slower skiers from the event. We appreciate your cooperation in ensuring the safety for all.
Details About the Pack
The 55 km skiers will have to weigh their 5.5 kg backpack or weight vest at both the start area and the finish area.
The pack worn must be over the shoulder; fanny packs do not qualify. Day packs, internal frame packs, or weight vests are acceptable. The pack (including contents, excluding consumables) must weigh a minimum of 5.5 kg or 12 lbs. Anything can be used to ensure correct pack weight that will still weigh the minimum at the finish line. Skiers may decorate their packs with a stuffed toy to signify the infant crown prince or to show off their Birkie spirit.
Registration Package & Bib Pick-up
Registration package and bib pick up will take place at the Nordic Fair on February 13, 2026. Timing chips will also be distributed at this time. There is a $100 charge for non-returned timing chips.
Age Limits
- Children 2 – 11 years of age are not allowed.
- Children 12 – 17 years of age are not recommended. If they register, they must be registered with and accompanied by an adult guardian.
Parking and Shuttle
- Parking for the Long Start is available at the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village.
- Shuttles will be at the finish line at the Waskahegan Staging Area to take you back to your vehicle.
Training
The Birkie offers several xc ski training opportunities to get you ready for the Birkie.
