Wednesday, February 18, 2026
Thursday, February 19, 2026
Friday, February 20, 2026
Saturday, February 21, 2026
Sunday, February 22, 2026
Participant and ABSF Wax Policy
The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation has joined U.S. Ski and Snowboard in banning the use of fluorinated ski wax in competition since the 2020-2021 season. We require all competitors to abide by this policy for all events on the Birkie Trail and at the American Birkebeiner Trailhead. All athletes are subject to random ski testing at events and penalties will apply to any US Ski and Snowboard licensed or citizen skier that is found to be non-compliant.
All participants in the American Birkebeiner are required to use non-Fluoridated wax products and are subject to random testing to detect the presence of fluorine on their skis. Racers in the Men’s & Women’s Birkie Skate Elite Waves MUST follow the wax testing protocol implemented at the event. Specific protocols will be shared with Elite Wave participants prior to the event. Even if not tested, we require all racers at all American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation events to follow the ABSF Wax Policy and we encourage skiers utilize fluoro-free wax at all times.
How to Clean Fluoros from Skis
- Cleaning Skis: Wax, Scrape, & Brush 2-3 times with a F-Free glide wax.
- Cleaning Tools: Clean brushes with vacuum bristles, spritz the bristles lightly with a base cleaner, and allow to dry. Clean scrapers and other hard tools with a base cleaner and allow to dry.
- Work Space: Be sure to vacuum and wipe down surfaces where skis and tools make contact.
Birkie Week Race Policies
All Birkie Week Races are run according to the rules and regulations of the Federation of International Skiing (FIS) and any special requirements stated in the entry form, Birch Scroll, this web site, www.birkie.com, and participant race instructions. Offenses against any of these rules may lead to disqualification for current or future events and the forfeiture of any and all awards.
All participants in the Slumberland American Birkebeiner and American Birkebeiner Open Track must be 18 years of age by February 20, 2026. Kortelopet and Prince Haakon skiers must be 13 years of age. There are no refunds allowed for any reason including race cancelation. Entry fees are non-transferable between individuals or to future races.
Clothing Bag Procedures Policies for using the clothing transport from the start to the finish.
ABSF Participant Rules
ABSF Wax Policy
Trash Penalty
A trash penalty is now in place for all Birkie events. Any participant, coach, or support crew caught throwing waste on the trail or into the woods between aid stations could be assessed a 15 minute penalty. There will be “Last Chance” garbage disposal areas as you leave each aid stations at all races. Violators should be reported by bib number via email at birkie@birkie.com or to a volunteer at the next aid station. Read more in the Participant rules above.