Posted by: Julie Block
The mountains give us everything. Sometimes, they just give us something a little different than we planned.
This winter’s historic low snowpack has impacted river levels across the region, and water sports are feeling it. The GoPro Mountain Games (June 4-7) is making some adjustments to keep the action safe, dialed, and fun for everyone. But make no mistake: the competition is on, and the stoke is high.
While some water events around the state are hitting pause, select rivers are still in play around Vail for 2026. We’re excited to confirm that five water events will move forward at the GoPro Mountain Games, with courses adapted to meet current conditions. Athletes can expect dynamic, ever-changing water that rewards skill, creativity, and adaptability.
“Contingency planning is part of every Mountain Games, as water levels fluctuate from year to year, which is why our team has spent the last several months monitoring conditions and working to find solutions,” said Peggy Wolfe, Senior Director of Operations for the Vail Valley Foundation, the nonprofit that organizes the GoPro Mountain Games each year. “We’re now putting that plan into action to ensure athletes and spectators have a safe and memorable experience. Despite some recent precipitation and more in the forecast, river levels simply aren’t where they need to be, and we don’t anticipate that changing before the event. However, we’re confident in the plan we’ve put together, and we can’t wait to see everyone in June.”
Whitewater moves to new water
Several events are moving to new water this year. The Pacifico Kayak Freestyle is relocating to the Glenwood Whitewater Activity Area in Glenwood Springs for a two-day format: qualifiers and semifinals on Friday, June 5, and finals on Saturday, June 6. Both days will be packed with big air, bold moves, and full-send energy.
The GoPro Down River Kayak Sprint, Pacifico Down River R2 Raft Sprint, and Slifer Smith & Frampton Down River SUP Sprint are moving to the Upper Colorado River between the Pumphouse and Radium recreation areas in Bond, bringing fast, scenic, high-energy racing to a classic stretch of water. All events will still take place on Saturday, June 6, with new start times.
The YETI Catch Wars will also relocate to the Upper Colorado River on Friday, June 5. Anglers will be tested by changing water conditions in pursuit of fish throughout the day.
Fans back in Vail can catch the Pacifico Kayak Freestyle whitewater action live on the Lucid big screen at the kayak hole, where we’ll be streaming the qualifiers, semi-finals and finals. The kayak hole will stay buzzing throughout the weekend with additional slackline shows and more activations to be announced soon.
Unfortunately, current projected water levels mean we are unable to run the Pacifico Gore IV Kayak Challenge, Pacifico Gore IV Raft Challenge, Pacifico Kayak Cross, and Pacifico Raft Cross, and these events have been cancelled for 2026.
“The Mountain Games has always delivered an incredible celebration of adventure sports, music, art, and mountain lifestyle, and this year is no different,” said Dave Dressman, Event Director for the GoPro Mountain Games. “We are so appreciative of our athletes and spectators rolling with us on this, and we have a jam packed 4-day festival planned where there is truly something for everyone.”
Athletes registered for cancelled events will be automatically refunded. Athletes registered for relocated events don’t need to take any action, but if they prefer not to participate at the new venue, they may request a refund by emailing [email protected] by May 15th.
Although these event cancellations have been confirmed, river conditions are continually monitored, and the remaining water events are subject to change as the event draws closer. Athletes and spectators are encouraged to download the Mountain Games app and turn on notifications to receive the latest updates.
Protecting the Water We Race On
At the GoPro Mountain Games, our Protect Our Playground initiative is at the heart of everything we do — from how we manage the event to how we think about the landscapes we compete in. This year’s event and venue changes are a direct reflection of that commitment.
“The rivers and mountains that make the Mountain Games possible deserve our care and respect, and that philosophy shapes every decision we make about how and where we hold these competitions,” Wolfe said. “This year more than ever, we’re focused on protecting our waterways and being thoughtful about water use. We are asking everyone to do their part to protect this valuable resource.”
Information about how athletes, spectators, and visitors can get involved is available at mountaingames.com/help-us-protect-our-playground-2026.
For full updated schedules, venue details, and everything else you need to know, visit mountaingames.com or download the Mountain Games app.
Share this Story:
