Santa Fe Snowshoe Classic

January 31, 2026, 9am | Big Tesuque Campground, Santa Fe, NM

The annual Santa Fe Snowshoe Classic is back again for 2026! Get outside this winter and race through the snowy Sangre de Cristo mountains while supporting local search and rescue teams.

Proceeds will benefit Skyline Search and Rescue. Skyline SAR is one of the SAR teams in Santa Fe which help keep us all safe in when we recreate outside by participating in wilderness searches for people who are missing, injured, or lost; as well as ensuring that races like the Santa Fe Snowshoe Classic are safe and that all participants are well cared for. Say hi to them on race day!

Two Ways to Race

In-Person Race

Join us at Big Tesuque Campground for a 6K snowshoe adventure through pristine winter terrain.
Start time: 9am.
Course: The lollipop course winds through Big Tesuque Trail, Winsor Trail, and Pacheco Canyon Road. See below for a map of the course.
Snowshoes are required when conditions permit.

Virtual Race

Complete your own 6K run, hike, or snowshoe anywhere between now and January 31st. No snow? No problem—participate from wherever you call home.

No Snowshoes? No Problem!

NEW THIS YEAR! If you don't own your own snowshoes, our wonderful sponsor Alpine Sports is renting snowshoes for the race at a discounted rate. For a $20 rental fee you can rent snowshoes for race day. Pickup Friday January 30th, and return on race day (January 31st) before they close at 6pm. To get the discounted rental rate give them a call or stop by the store to reserve your rental and let them know you are renting them for the Santa Fe Snowshoe Classic. If you have any issues shoot us an email at snowshoe@santafestriders.org. Snowshoe supply is limited so reserve your rental right after you sign up to make sure you get a pair.

Alpine Sports stocks MSR Denali snowshoes which are pretty good for running, or hiking if that's your preferred pace. Do not use the tail extensions if you plan on running the race.

What Participants Get

• Performance Headband
  • The perfect gear to keep you ears warm during the race!
  • Headbands will be mailed to virtual participants
• Campfire Mug (in-person participants only)
  • The perfect mug for hot drinks on a cold day before strapping on your snowshoes and going for an adventure
• Overall top 3 in each division receive a 14" long mini snowshoe trophy
  • Show off your Snowshoeing Prowess and wow your friends!
• Age-group top 3 awards (in-person participants only)
• Prize raffle for all in-person entrants!
  • Prizes include past years limited edition swag, gift cards, gear, and more!
  • Raffle held at the conclusion of the race

Good to Know

• Parking is limited — please carpool and arrive early
• Men will start first this year, each year we switch between male and female starting first.
• All proceeds benefit Skyline Search and Rescue, one of our wonderful SAR teams in Santa Fe which keep us safe. 

Frequently Asked Questions

• I don't own snowshoes, is there a way I can still participate?
  • Yes! Alpine Sports, one of our great retail and rental shops in town rents snowshoes and has offered 20% off snowshoe rentals for the race. Give them a call or stop by the store to reserve your rental and let them know you just need them for the Santa Fe Snowshoe Classic to get the discounted rate.
• I don't know how to snowshoe, can I participate? 
  • Of course! All levels of snowshoer from newbies to expert snowshoe racers are welcome. Even if you don't feel like you know how to snowshoe someone will help you out at the race and its a great way to learn and get out in the snow.
• I don't know want to run in my snowshoes. Is it ok if I hike?
  • Of course!  Everyone is welcome at the race. Whether you just want an excuse to go for a snowshoe walk while supporting a great cause and getting some great swag or you want to win the race, everyone is welcome! 
• What if there's no snow?
  • We don't like to think about this possibility, but with our warming climate there is always a chance that snow may not cover the entire course. If there is no snow at all then you do not have to wear your snowshoes, but you must carry them with you! If the course is mostly covered in snow then you must wear your snowshoes.