The world’s best freeriders take on Alaska’s legendary spines as the FWT Finals begin in Haines, Alaska.
Competition confirmed for this Friday, March 13, 2026
Official venue: The Venue, previously used during the 2016 and 2017 Alaska events
Dropping order: Snowboard Men, Snowboard Women, Ski Women, Ski Men
HAINES, ALASKA, USA - March 12, 2026: The FIS Freeride World Tour by Peak Performance is thrilled to confirm that the YETI Alaska Haines Pro will take place on Friday, March 13, 2026. The world’s top freeride skiers and snowboarders who secured their place in the FWT Finals will take on The Venue, the legendary face used in 2016 and 2017 during the Tour’s previous visits to Alaska.
Known for its iconic Alaskan spines, steep pitches, and massive terrain, The Venue presents riders with the longest face of the 2026 season so far, demanding both technical precision and endurance. Competitors will need to quickly adapt to the complex terrain, where the majority of features form along the natural spine lines that define classic Alaskan freeride terrain.
The Venue: A legendary Alaskan face back on the Freeride World Tour
Making its return to the Tour for the first time since 2017, The Venue is renowned for delivering some of the most spectacular runs in Freeride World Tour history. Its wide-open terrain and dramatic spine formations offer riders countless creative line options while maintaining the technical challenge Alaska is famous for.
The face is east-facing and current conditions look promising for competition day, with approximately 20 cm of fresh cold powder sitting on top of a compact and supportive base. Riders will start from one of two possible start gates located at 2,100 meters and 2,130 meters.
From the start gate, competitors will face a 740-meter vertical descent, with a maximum steepness of 51 degrees and an average pitch of 45 degrees. The face is characterized by a large, open structure filled with prominent spines and ridgelines, offering multiple line choices and opportunities for creative riding. Combined with the sustained steepness and the length of the descent, The Venue stands as one of the largest and most demanding faces on the Freeride World Tour circuit.
Event Schedule
Live coverage begins: 10:30 AM (AKDT) / 10:30 CET
First rider drops: 10:45 AM (AKDT) / 19:45 CET
Dropping order: Snowboard Men, Snowboard Women, Ski Women, Ski Men
Don’t miss a moment
As the first stop of the 2026 FWT Finals, the stakes are higher than ever. With valuable points on the line and the legendary Alaskan terrain setting the stage, riders will be pushing the limits to deliver unforgettable performances.
Fans around the world can tune in live at www.freerideworldtour.com/live, where the full event will be streamed with expert commentary, multiple camera angles, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.
Follow @freerideworldtour on social media for live updates, rider interviews, highlight reels, and more.
