Historically Low Snowpack Forces Cancellations at GoPro Mountain Games

May 1, 2026

The historically low snowpack across the western U.S. is already affecting spring and summer recreation. On April 30, the GoPro Mountain Games announced changes to its event schedule and locations due to expected low water levels. The games are outright canceling four water competitions and are moving the remaining five to other areas of the state.

“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,” Peggy Wolfe, senior director of operations for the Vail Valley Foundation, which organizes the GoPro Mountain Games, said in a statement. “We’re now putting that plan into action to ensure athletes and spectators have a safe and memorable experience.”

The GoPro Mountain Games are scheduled for June 4–7. Canceled events include the Gore IV Kayak Challenge, Gore IV Raft Challenge, Kayak Cross, and Raft Cross. All athletes who were already registered for those events will receive automatic refunds, according to the GoPro Mountain Games.

All remaining water events, including the Kayak Freestyle, Down River Kayak Sprint, Down River R2 Raft Sprint, Down River SUP Sprint, and Catch Wars, are being relocated. Land-based events such as climbing, biking, running, and dog competitions will all still be held in Vail Village, in Colorado. Gear Junkie