City of Lakes Loppet Winter Festival
The Next Generation Loppet is designed to inspire the next generation of Loppet skiers by providing all the fun and excitement of the longer Loppet ski events in shorter distances perfect for youth or junior skiers newer to the sport.
Next Generation Loppet skiers will be able to choose from 3K, 2K, and 1K distances. New this year is a 500 meter cutoff option for the 1K skiers at the “Roundabout” if they need it (it avoids Jim’s Hill-not a big hill but enough to challenge some new skiers). Parents (no registration required) are welcome to join their 1K skiers on skis or foot-please just stay to the side or behind so other participants can easily pass). All distances are freestyle technique, meaning you can classic or skate ski the course.
GALLERY
Registration Opens October 7
Proceeds from the Next Generation Loppet benefit the Loppet Foundation. Learn more about the Foundation’s mission, vision, and values.
Registration and transaction fees are non-refundable, including in the event of delay, rescheduling, or cancellation of an event or program. An event or program registration is not transferable to another person or another event for any reason, including injury. Participating under another person’s name will result in disqualification.
A Note About the Data We Collect
If you wish to change events (e.g. changing race distance), please follow these instructions: RunSignup Event Transfer Instructions.
All pricing listed on RunSignUp reflects the processing fees per Minnesota’s “Hidden Fees Statute,” SB 478. RunSignup charges a variable processing fee of $1 per transaction plus 6% as our standard price.
Thurdsay, January 30: 4pm-8pm: Packet pick up at Utepils Brewing
Friday, January 31: 4pm-8pm: Packet pick up at The Trailhead
Saturday, February 1:
The courses are marked with colored arrows on sandwich boards located at trail junctions. Course marshals may also be present at critical junctions to guide and cheer you on.
Chalet Lot Drop Off Zone: Shows the location in the Chalet Lot (1301 Theodore Wirth Pkwy) where dropoffs and pickups will be allowed (if you are not using the special Next Generation parking permits).
Make note of these for getting around race morning. Be sure to let your spectator fans know as well.
Chili! For years, the Loppet has served Captain Ken’s Chili at the finish line. It is our goal to do that again in 2024. Just what a tired skier needs to start the recovery process!
Sponsors! Our sponsors help make everything happen and better! Please visit and thank them for their support. We are sure you will have some fun with them, too!
Indoor Changing Area – Trailhead locker rooms. Showers not available.
Race Bibs: In an effort to reduce the waste generated by thousands of bibs, the Loppet will collect all bibs at the finish. We wash and reuse the bibs from year to year. Please return your bib after the race. Thank you for helping us reduce waste and move toward greener events!
FESTIVAL VILLAGE
Commemorative medals for all Next Generation finishers!
The Loppet needs help in all capacities supporting the participants during the City of Lakes Loppet Winter Festival.
All Festival volunteers will receive an exclusive winter volunteer hat!
Please sign up to volunteer by clicking the button below. If you have any questions, please email volunteer@loppet.org.
VOLUNEER
City of Lakes Loppet Winter Festival
Entry fees go towards the production of the event and The Loppet mission of connecting people to the outdoors through experiences that grow community!
Typically we send it out to registered participants and post it on the event website about 1 week ahead of the event.
While we love your furry friends please leave them at home for these large Loppet events.
The Juneteenth Fun Run is fully on pavement and is our stroller friendly course. All other event courses are not conducive to strollers (CityTrail Loppet, Utepils Trail Loppet, City of Lakes Loppet Winter Festival, Luminary Loppet). Spectators are welcome to have strollers around the venue though.
Reach out to events@loppet.org and we can talk about how we can support you.
Yes! This is your race, take the breaks you need to feel good during your event. All Loppet races have course cut off times, check the participant guide for the course cut off time that you have to be finished by.
Yes! Come check out our awesome merch in the adventure shop at the Trailhead or at the finish line.
Wednesday, August 6, 2025 - 4:15 pm - 8:00 pm
Wednesday, August 20, 2025 - 4:15 pm - 8:00 pm
Thursday, August 28, 2025 - 4:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Thursday, September 11, 2025 - 4:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Saturday, September 20, 2025 - 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
Sunday, September 21, 2025 - 7:00 am - 1:00 pm
Saturday, October 18, 2025 - 7:00 am - 7:00 pm
Race results can be found at mtecresults.com
2025 Photos: Festival Photos 2025
2024 Results: Loppet Festival 2024
2024 Photos: Festival Photos 2024
Join the Community
The Loppet depends on our community to support our mission through donations, membership and volunteering.
Support our mission of connecting people to the outdoors through experiences that grow community.
Membership at the Loppet directly supports our mission and gets you added benefits to enjoy!
We depend on volunteers to ensure our programs and events offer the best experience. Lend your time at the Loppet!