2021 Covid-19 Update
The Powderkeg will be following the guidance of IFMS, local officials as well as help from local healthcare workers. The Wasatch Powderkeg reserves the right to cancel the race at any time due to Covid-19 protocol or weather concerns.
Things might look a little different this year, please read below for an outline of event changes.
CAMP Demos
If you signed up for a CAMP demo, please find the demo table at check in for your gear.
The Wasatch Powderkeg is a backcountry ski race in the heart of the central Wasatch mountains, just outside of Salt Lake City.
Racers will test their endurance and skill as they ascend and descend the mountains around Brighton Ski Resort, all the while taking in the views of the Heber Valley, Mt Nebo, Mt Timpanogos, and the Cottonwood Canyons.
Don't own spandex? That's ok -- the Powderkeg celebrates those that love the backcountry by recognizing Heavy Metal (> 1450g for 1 ski + 1 binding), Split-board, Recreational (shorter) and youth divisions.
Each racer will receive an entry into our legendary raffle, which is made possible by our awesome sponsors.
Join Utah's annual backcountry celebration!
Powderkeg will be capping the total number of athletes for each event.
We will have no in-person meeting the day of and no post race gatherings after the race. All course information will be posted on our website prior to the race.
There will not be any indoor areas open for race related organization. We will provide an outdoor “bag drop area” where you can drop a personal bag and pick it up after the race.
We will still be hosting our amazing raffle, special thank you to our sponsors. This year the raffle will be online and each racer will receive a ticket at registration.
We have simplified to a two course option: long course and short course with an additional short course for novice racers and kids 12 and under. Our course aims to provide a safe skiing experience, minimizing hazards from avalanche conditions and inbounds hazards.
Masks are REQUIRED in the start/finish area and may be removed 60 seconds before your wave starts. Racers will be released in staggered waves according to their division.
The athletes must have a mask in the backpack or in a zipped pocket during all competitions. A second mask is included in the compulsory equipment for the 2020/2021 season in the backpack.
Anyone with COVID-19 symptoms cannot participate
Anyone who has a known, positive COVID-19 exposure in the last 10 days, prior to the event, cannot participate
Mask (not buffs, or your shirt collar) must be worn at all times in the start and finish area
If a participant tests positive for COVID-19 within 10 days after the event, he/she must contact Powderkeg
Please arrive at the start area no more than 5 minutes before your allotted start time
Participants are not allowed to congregate or linger at the start or finish area. Once your effort is finished please leave the finish area.
Photography provided by Blake Bekken