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PHOTOS: Grand Lake’s inaugural skijoring competition (with video)

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Meg Soyars Van Hauen

Skis, saddles, snowboards and sunshine were featured at Grand Lake's inaugural skijoring event from March 8-9, 2025.
Mallory Mac Photo/Courtesy photo

Crowds gathered along the boardwalk in Grand Lake for the inaugural skijoring competition March 8-9. Residents and visitors zipped through town — either in the saddle or strapped into skis and snowboards.

“The thrilling sport of skijoring — in which a snow skier is towed behind a galloping horse and rider through an obstacle course of jumps, turns and tricks — is a popular winter pastime in Colorado’s mountain towns, many of which have their roots in ranching heritage,” the Grand County Tourism Board wrote in a news release.

Grand Lake is traditionally a summer destination, but events like skijoring could become a popular winter tradition. Cowgirls and cowboys seemed right at home with the town’s historic ambiance. Skijoring enthusiasts Delphine and Steve Eytel of Fairplay helped organize the event. 

Visit the event’s Facebook page, Grand Lake Skijoring, for a list of winners in all categories.

Crowds cheered on talented horseback riders and snowsports enthusiasts as they raced down Grand Avenue in downtown Grand Lake on March 8-9.
Mallory Mac Photo/Courtesy photo
Animal and nature photographer Mallory Mac captured the partnership between rider and horse as they raced to the finish line March 8.
Mallory Mac Photo/Courtesy photo
Skijoring comes from the Norwegian word “skikjøring,” meaning “ski driving.” The sport is perfect for mountainous states like Colorado, combining horsemanship with snow sports.
Mallory Mac Photo/Courtesy photo

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