Big Wave Challenge 2026

Shred the slopes for a great cause! Celebrate the 14th year of the Big Wave Challenge hosted by legendary Big Wave surfer, Mt. Bachelor ambassador, and Bend local, Gerry Lopez. This event is a snowboard contest held on a custom-built course shaped by legendary groomer Alex Storjohann that features a series of huge sweeping banked corners, quarter pipes, and spines that incorporate the natural terrain as much as possible. The result is a series of wave-like features linked up along a flowing course that brings the surf to the mountains.

This year, the winners of the Men’s Pro division and the Women’s Pro division will win a trip to Japan (7 Days, 7 nights) provided by Stealth Backcountry!

Event Details

March 27-29, 2026 | Various Times
At Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort (13000 SW Century Drive, Bend, OR 97702)

Competition Schedule & Divisions

Spectators are invited and encouraged to attend! Bring your Aloha spirit and cheer on the competitors from the sidelines and in the finish area!

The Big Wave Challenge will operate in a jam-style format, allowing riders to take as many runs through the course as they like during their division’s allotted time. Divisions will run consecutively, ensuring continuous action:

• HEAT 1 : Keiki’s + Makule’s

• HEAT 2: Grom + Ho’omau

• HEAT 3: Wahine + Kane

• Pro Surfers: Drop in whenever there’s a good wave, ensuring maximum action.

Click Here Register to Compete.

Scoring and Prizes

Judges will score competitors based on overall performance and impression.

• The top three riders in each division will be awarded prizes.

• Special Prizes will also be awarded in categories including Best Carve, Best Layback, Best Slash, Most Aloha, and more … Be sure to stick around for the awards ceremony!

Click Here Register to Compete.

Important Note: Please note that the resort schedule is subject to change throughout the weekend based on weather and event logistics. For real-time updates, please follow @BigWave_Challenge on Instagram!

Competitor Registration

Competitor Divisions:

• HEAT 1

  • Keiki (boys/girls 11-16)

  • Makule | Men/Women 40+ (enthusiasts only, no pro)

• HEAT 2

  • Grom (boys / girls 10 & under)

  • Ho’omau | Adapative men / women (all ages)

• HEAT 3

  • Wahine | Women’s PRO (all ages)

  • Kane | Men’s PRO (all ages)

Click Here Register to Compete.

Big Wave Challenge Event Schedule

Event Lodging

While many attendees will camp at Mt. Bachelor, this event is open to everyone (including those who prefer a stay with more creature comforts). Enjoy a cozy rental home only a short drive away from Mt. Bachelor! Click here to book your Sunriver vacation rental.

Get Your Ski Lift Tickets Cost Included with Your Stay!

Most Village Properties at Sunriver vacation rentals come with the option to have up to $250 of your Mt. Bachelor Lift Tickets included with your stay! Learn more about the guest perks that come with your vacation rental and book your comfy ski rental today.