Skijoring Comes to the National Western Stock Show in 2027
DENVER—A new tradition is set to make its mark in January! The National WesternStock Show, presented by CommonSpirit Health, welcomes skijoring to its 2027 lineup, bringing one of the West’s most exhilarating winter sports to the heart ofthe Stock Show grounds on Monday, Jan. 18. With deep roots in the Mountain West, skijoring combines the power of horse andrider with the rigor and speed of a skier. The result is a high-energy competitionthat celebrates horsemanship, athleticism and the enduring spirit of the West.
The Sport
In skijoring, a skier holds a tow rope connected to a horse and rider,navigating a snow-covered course at high speed. Teams maneuver through gates, clear jumps and negotiate obstacles, demanding coordination, precision and trust between horse, rider and skier.
The Competition
Fifty teams will take part in the inaugural invitational competition, bringing together skilled horsemen and women, accomplished skiers and the competitive spirit that defines the Western way of life.
Event Details
Monday, Jan. 18, 2027 | 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
The Course
The National Western Stock Show skijoring course will run along Betty Cram Drive on the west side of the National Western Stock Show grounds, between the Legacy and the CSU Spur buildings. Snowmaking operations are scheduled to begin in late November to ensure the course is ready for a true skijoring experience in the heart ofDenver.
Experience the Action in Person
With horses galloping at full stride and skiers navigating jumps and obstacles,skijoring delivers a thrilling spectator experience unlike anything else at the Stock Show. Spectators can watch the action alongside the course, enjoy food and beverage offerings, and take part in event-day giveaways. Following the competition and awards ceremony, fans will have the opportunity to meet competitors and learn more about the sport firsthand.
Admission
Skijoring is included with a National Western Stock Show grounds admission ticket for that day, priced at $31 for adults and $10 for kids. Grounds admission also provides access to a full day of Stock Show experiences, including livestock exhibitions, Western shopping, food, entertainment and more.
About the National Western
The National Western is a Denver-based charitable organization dedicated to strengthening American agriculture through youth education, scholarships, and livestock, equestrian, farming, ranching, and animal stewardship enrichment programs. Best known for producing the annual National Western Stock Show (the 121st anniversary is Jan. 9-24, 2027), the organization also operates The Legacy, a premier year-round destination for events, exhibitions and Western experiences that celebrate the culture and future of the American West.
WE ARE THE WEST
