Eagle Point Loppet is Back!

What is a Loppet you ask?

A Loppet symbolizes food, family, fun, and of course, Nordic skiing! Loppet ski events are fun for the whole family – if you can walk you are not too young to ski! Whether you are a competitive skier, or a novice who just wants to enjoy the outdoors, a loppet has something for everyone. If you do not like to ski, then volunteer, or come out to cheer!

Let us do a little time travel back to look at the history of this entertaining event!

1521

The year that it all started! Gustav Eriksson Vasa skied 90 km to escape the Danish King. During his flight, he stopped in Sälen, Sweden and returned to Mora, Sweden to lead an uprising against the occupation forces. He was later elected King of Sweden.

1922

First Vasaloppet was held to commemorate the well-loved King. 119 skiers registered to ski 90 kms.

1975

The beginning of the Pembina Nordic Ski Club and the first loppet. The Loppet has been enjoyed by local ski enthusiasts for many years.

2007

The Alberta Government approved the designation of Eagle Point Provincial Park and Blue Rapids Provincial Recreation Areas.

2008

Formation of Eagle Point Blue Rapids Parks Council, a non-profit organization that manages the parks with the co-operation of recreational groups, interest groups, provincial and municipal governments.

2014

First annual “Eagle Point Loppet” at the Pembina Nordic Centre. Thirty-four skiers registered from the Jackrabbit learn to ski program, along with many people from the community. Distances ranged from 1 to 30 km.

2024 in Sweden

Tune in on March 3, 2024, for the 100th year of the Vasaloppet in Sweden. It is already fully booked with 15,800 participants!

2024 in Drayton Valley

Let’s celebrate with the Swedes! The Eagle Point Loppet returns after a two-year hiatus for its ninth edition.

This year’s Loppet has been expanded to add more fun for everyone. This will be a 2-day classic and freestyle event, with varying distances to accommodate all levels of skiers. There will be races for competitive skiers, and for those who just want to have fun! Mark January 6th – 7th on your calendar and check on Zone4.ca for registration opening later in December. Register to ski or volunteer and be eligible for a free bowl of our Loppet famous chili. If you do not have equipment, rentals can be arranged by emailing pembinanordicrentals@gmail.com.

See you at the Loppet and watch for me in my “eagle hat”