Mark your calendars for the 50th annual Bud Light Cowboy Downhill event. It all began 50 years ago when Billy Kidd, Steamboat’s director of skiing, and Larry Mahan, six-time all-around World Champion cowboy, decided to invite a few of the Pro Rodeo stars to Steamboat for a day of skiing. The cowboys had such a great time that the downhill has become the most popular event of the season with over 100 of the best professional rodeo cowboys competing in the most unique ski rodeo in the country.

When the race kicks off at 1pm Cowboys & Cowgirls will ski down a dual slalom course, go over a jump, lasso a person, saddle a horse, and cross the finish line. The dual slalom is followed by the Stampede Event, which is a mass start; first cowboy/cowgirl to the bottom wins.

Schedule of Events

Sunday, January 19th

5:30 PM – 50th Anniversary Bud Light Cowboy Downhill Drone Show ✨
Steamboat Resort is kicking off the Cowboy Downhill festivities with a breathtaking drone show. Starting around 5:30 PM, the skies will light up in a dazzling display of choreography and color, celebrating 50 incredible years of the Bud Light Cowboy Downhill 🤠. This one-of-a-kind experience blends high-tech wonder with Steamboat’s authentic Western spirit. Bring your friends and family—this is a show you’ll be talking about for years to come!

Monday, January 20th

11:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Western Festivities in Gondola Square
The 50th Annual Bud Light Cowboy Downhill is more than a ski competition—it’s a celebration of all things Western! Join us in Steamboat Square for an unforgettable experience, including:

• 4-H Farm Animals 🐮 – Meet and greet some furry friends.
• Food and Refreshments 🍔 – Enjoy delicious eats at Timber & Torch Grill.
• Learn-to-Rope Clinic 🤠 – Perfect your cowboy (or cowgirl) skills.
• Denver Broncos Cheerleaders – Catch special appearances and photo opportunities.
• Commemorative Souvenirs – Grab exclusive 50th Anniversary logo wear and keepsakes to remember the day.

1:00 PM: The 50th Annual Bud Light Cowboy Downhill ⛷️❄️
Cheer on the cowboys and cowgirls as they race down the slopes in a thrilling Timed Dual Slalom, showcasing speed, spills, and a whole lot of fun! Don’t miss the adrenaline-pumping Stampede right after the main race. First Cowboy or Cowgirl to the bottom wins it all.

2:30 PM (Approx.): Bud Light Free Concert on the Steamboat Stage 🎶
The excitement continues with a high-energy live performance by Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe. Dance, sing, and celebrate as the music fills the air, wrapping up an unforgettable day of Western-inspired fun.

Join us for two unforgettable days of fun and celebration at the 50th Annual Bud Light Cowboy Downhill 🎉🏔️