11th Annual Wasatch Powder Keg

The 11th annual Wasatch Powder Keg backcountry race will be held on March 8, 9, and 10 at Brighton Ski Resort. The Powder Keg is a test of speed, strength, and endurance for any backcountry skier. This year will feature 3 races and racers have the option of doing any individual race or all 3 races.  

Friday will be a Sprint race followed by the mandatory pre-race meeting for the Saturday and Sunday races.  

Saturday will be the traditional Powder Keg race. As always, the race offers captivating views of Heber Valley, Mt Nebo, Mt Timpanogos, and the Cottonwood Canyons. The race and heavy metal divisions will cover 11 miles and have 6 climbs for a little over 6,000’ of climbing. Any racer with a ski/binding weight of 1,450g (51oz) or less, must race the Race division. The Recreational division will cover 6.5 miles and have 4 climbs for 3,500’ of climbing. All divisions will have categories for male/female.  

Sunday will be a technical teams race (teams of 2). The course will be similar to the Powder Keg course with additional climbs and 1 or 2 technical roped sections requiring racers to user some combination of harness, crampons, ascenders, and via ferrata kit. The technical teams race will have 1 division with categories for male/female.

There will be a BBQ, awards ceremony, and raffle following the Saturday and Sunday races at the Milly Chalet. For registration or more details see www.wasatchpowderkeg.com.

Sure, a backcountry ski race seems intimidating and all, but really it's a festive and supportive atmosphere ripe for anyone who is ready for a challenge. Plus there's always an awesome bbq complement with beer after the race.