Cock-A-Doodle Shoe | Saranac Lake | January 18, 2026

Sunday, January 18, 2026
10:00 AM 1:00 PM

Cock-A-Doodle Shoe 236 Plumadore Road Saranac, NY, 12981 United States (map)

Google Calendar ICS

Cock-A-Doodle-Shoe 2026: Snowshoe Racing Energy Comes to Saranac Lake in January

Snowshoe races competing in the cock-a-doodle shoe in Saranac Lake. — Photo courtesy Cock-A-Doodle Shoe.

Every January, winter athletes from across North America converge on the Adirondacks for one of the region’s most spirited snowshoe racing events: the annual Cock-A-Doodle-Shoe.

On January 18, 2026, this beloved winter race returns to Saranac Lake, delivering a full day of competition, community, and cold-weather fun for racers of all ages and abilities.

Since its debut in 2013, the Cock-A-Doodle-Shoe has earned a reputation as a must-attend winter race. It draws an impressive field that regularly includes World and National Champions, National Team members, and future Junior National Champions—while remaining welcoming and accessible to first-time racers and recreational snowshoers.

A signature Adirondack winter race.

The 2026 Cock-A-Doodle-Shoe features both 5K and 10K snowshoe races, offering participants a chance to test their endurance on a course known for its balance of beauty and challenge.

Racers glide through classic Adirondack winter scenery, with snow-covered trails and crisp mountain air providing the perfect backdrop for competition.

What sets this event apart is its inclusive spirit. While elite athletes push the pace at the front, competitors of all speeds find the course equally rewarding.

The race celebrates effort as much as speed, making it a favorite among seasoned snowshoers and newcomers alike.

Racer starting line at Saranac Lake's Cock-A-Doodle Shoe. — Racers ready to compete in Saranac Lake’s Cock-A-Doodle Shoe.

A course that keeps racers coming back.

The Cock-A-Doodle-Shoe course has built a loyal following over the years. It offers a mix of terrain that keeps things interesting—fast sections that invite strong pacing, paired with technical or rolling segments that demand focus and grit. Participants often cite the course design as a highlight, noting that it challenges without overwhelming.

For spectators, the race delivers plenty of excitement as well. The energy at the start line, the steady rhythm of snowshoes on packed trails, and the camaraderie at the finish make this a standout winter event in the Adirondacks calendar.

Kid’s snowshoe scramble welcomes young racers.

One of the most heartwarming parts of the Cock-A-Doodle-Shoe is the Kid’s Snowshoe Scramble, a half-mile race designed to get young athletes excited about winter sports.

Kids competing in Saranac Lake's Cock-a-Doodle Shoe — Kids’ snowshoe scramble.

Thanks to its continued success, the kids’ event returns again in 2026 with a $0 entry fee, making it an easy “yes” for families.

A limited number of loaner snowshoes will be available courtesy of the Town of Plattsburgh Parks and Recreation Department. Organizers strongly encourage preregistration and advance requests to reserve equipment.

This youth-focused race reinforces the event’s community-first ethos and helps inspire the next generation of winter athletes.

Plan a full winter weekend in Saranac Lake.

The Cock-A-Doodle-Shoe offers an excellent excuse to turn race day into a full Adirondack getaway. Visitors can explore Saranac Lake’s vibrant dining scene, warm up in cozy cafés, and support local shops and businesses throughout the village. Whether cheering on racers or strapping on snowshoes, attendees play a role in sustaining the local winter economy.

With its blend of high-level competition, family-friendly programming, and classic Adirondack atmosphere, the Cock-A-Doodle-Shoe continues to prove why it’s one of the region’s most anticipated winter events.

For more information and to register, visit the event website.