Noquemanon issues cold weather protocols, race updates

Tue, Jan  20, 2026 - By Noquemanon Ski Marathon

All pre-registered participants have received an email at the address they used to register. Information will continue to be posted to the race website homepage and to pre-registered participants by email.

Cold Weather and Safety/Preparation Information

It will be very cold this year, and taking preventative measures against frostbite and hypothermia will be imperative. Please dress appropriately for conditions by using multiple layers, including one or two base layers that wick moisture away from the skin. Use an additional wind-blocking layer over sensitive areas (e.g., wind briefs). Cover all exposed skin, including:

• Buff for ears below the hat line
• A second buff around the neck that can be pulled up over the mouth
• Face tape to protect exposed skin on the nose and cheeks
• Glasses or a face shield to protect your eyes
• Do not use eye drops of any kind in these conditions

Wear warm ski gloves and insulated ski socks, making sure ski boots are not overly tight, as restricted circulation increases frostbite risk. If you carry fluids, use an insulated water bottle. If not, be sure to utilize the aid stations for:

• Water
• Hammer HEED
• Hammer Gels where available
• Food

Taking in fluids and calories on very cold days is extremely important, as your body works harder to stay warm. You may not “feel” thirsty, but dehydration and calorie deficits can occur quickly. Skiers often bonk hard on cold days because thirst and hunger cues are suppressed.

Taking these preventative measures will help ensure a safe and enjoyable ski despite cold temperatures.

Additional Safety Recommendation

It is highly recommended to carry a few old-fashioned hand warmers in your pockets. They are inexpensive, lightweight, and can be invaluable in the event of an equipment malfunction that forces you to stop skiing and begin walking.

Junior Noquemanon (Junior Noque)

Friday’s daytime high temperature is currently forecasted at -5°F, with moderate winds and wind chills at or below -15°F, and Friday night lows reaching -16°F. The minimum temperature required for Junior Noque races to occur is -4°F. If forecasts indicate that temperatures will not reach -4°F by race start time on Friday, the race committee may cancel Junior Noque races, with that determination being made on Thursday to allow families adequate time to plan.

Potential 50K Delayed Start

The standard minimum temperature for the Full and Half Marathon races is -14°F. The race committee will decide Friday regarding any delayed start of the 50K Noquemanon Ski Marathon. A 1 or 2-hour delayed start will occur if there is strong confidence that the forecasted ambient temperature at 8:10 AM Saturday will be -13°F or lower.

• Any delayed start decision will be communicated via email to all pre-registered racers and posted on the race website
• If delayed, the bus schedule will also shift one or two hours later

Participants should remain attentive to updates and monitor details near the bus staging area at the Superior Dome.

Please review the linked document "Cold Weather Safety Protocols" on the race website at www.noquemanon.com

Stay tuned for additional updates as they are available!