The 2026 Gunstock Mt. Snowshoe Race will take place on March 7, 2026, at the Gunstock Nordic Center, located at 719 Cherry Valley Road in Gilford, New Hampshire. The event is set against the backdrop of snow-covered trails and rugged terrain, offering a unique blend of groomed Nordic paths and technical single-track sections. On the day of the race, participants can expect temperatures ranging from 20°F to 32°F with partly cloudy skies and light snowfall, creating ideal conditions for snowshoeing. The 8K course winds through the Gunstock Trail system, challenging participants with steep climbs, descents, and scenic vistas, while being clearly marked with orange pin flags, red arrows, and Nordic barriers. The race is designed for both seasoned snowshoers and those new to the sport, providing a mix of endurance and technical skill.
What is the event format and race rules?
→The event is a trail/mixed-terrain snowshoe race, featuring groomed Nordic trails and challenging wooded single-track sections.
→The course is approximately 8K in length, with a loop design that includes steep climbs and descents.
→The course is marked with orange pin flags (always on the runner's right), red arrows in the snow, and Nordic barriers to guide participants.
What distances are available for this event?
→The event offers a single distance: 8K race.
How much does registration cost?
→Standard price: $35.00 (total: $38.50, including taxes & fees)
→Late registration (after March 3, 2026): $40.00 (total: $43.50, including taxes & fees)
What is the schedule for race day?
→Registration check-in opens at 7:45 AM
→Race start is at 9:00 AM
What is included in the registration?
→Participants will have access to the 8K course, which includes groomed Nordic trails and technical single-track sections.
→The event includes awards for overall winners, top male and female finishers, and age group winners.
What awards are given for this event?
→Overall winners (male/female): Pair of Dion 121 Snowshoes
→Top 3 male finishers: Burgeon Outdoors gift cards
→Top 3 female finishers: Title Nine gift cards
→Age group winners (male/female): Additional awards
What is the race course like?
→The course begins in the Stadium and climbs the Cobble Mountain Loop toward Maple.
→From Maple, the route transitions onto Birch and descends back to Cobble Mountain Loop.
→A brief lollipop around the Rock-Loop offers scenic views of the snow-covered bog and Belknap Range.
→Racers then rejoin Cobble Mountain Loop, take a sharp left into the woods, and ascend Cobble Crown Mountain via the Cobble Snowshoe trail, which features challenging single-track on both ascent and descent.
→After merging back onto the groomed trail at the Outlook junction, runners descend toward the Stadium, transition onto Crossbow, then turn left on Quiver to finish back in the Stadium.
→The course is marked with orange pin flags (always on the runner's right), red arrows in the snow, and Nordic barriers.
What are the weather conditions expected on the event day?
→On March 7, 2026, in Gilford, temperatures are expected to range from 20°F to 32°F.
→The weather is anticipated to be partly cloudy with light snowfall, providing ideal conditions for snowshoeing.
→Participants should prepare for cold temperatures and potential snow accumulation on the trails.
