Join us for 2025 Kat to Koot Adventure Race on February 8th, 2025 (Register Below)
Haines Huts and Trails is excited to host the Kat to Koot Adventure Race as part of the Haines Winterfest. The Kat to Koot is a human-powered team adventure up, over, and down Mount Ripinski. Check-in for the race will be at Fairweather Ski Works in the Fairgrounds at 7-7:30 A.M. on February 8th, with the race starting at 8:00.
Approximate route below. The end point will vary and the official route will be announced the day before the race depending on conditions and safety.
Rules:
Take a summit selfie to prove you made it.
Teams of at least two.
No motors allowed on route.
Start and end with the same gear-no stashing.
Each participant must carry an avalanche beacon, shovel, probe, ice grippers or crampons.
Each team must carry a communication device and gps, a cell phone satisfies both.
A shuttle will be provided to take extra warm gear from the start point to finish, and to transport finishers back to town.
Route subject to modification or cancelation due to weather and/or Avalanche conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is the route technical?
Not really. The steepest part is going up through the trees at the start, then it mellows out at tree line. The summit section is slightly steeper, sometimes rime covered, but not mandatorily exposed. Going down can be about as mellow as you want until snow thins out in the trees and the the terrain steepens toward sea level. The race starts and ends on the highway, so bring your car smarts!
How high and far is it?
There is no specific course for Kat to Koot, except the start, summit and end. The top of Mt. Ripinski is 3,600 feet and will be the only checkpoint. If visibility is poor above treeline on race day the checkpoint will be moved lower on the mountain. The route will be announced on the morning of the race. The distance of the route most people took last year is +/- 7 miles.
How long will it take?
Last year times ranged 3.5 to 8 hours.
Is it suitable for beginners?
A handful of beginners have participated and done great. The race is designed so that both beginners and experts can challenge themselves. Teams should however have avalanche and backcountry travel experience for their own safety.
Do I have to ski?
No. You can use whatever gear you want as long as it doesn’t include a motor and you carry everything the entire route. Past participants have used skis, snowboards, snowshoes, and running shoes. Crampons are recommended.
Can I bring my dog?
Kat to koot does not object to dogs, but there are traps in the vicinity of the downhill section, so bring your buddy at your own risk.