This weekend, snowboarders, supporters and the greater Flathead Valley community will come together for the 26th Annual Nate Chute Banked Slalom and Boardercross event at Whitefish Mountain Resort. More than just a competition, this event is a powerful gathering in support of mental wellness and suicide prevention, benefiting the Nate Chute Foundation (NCF). 

This year’s fundraiser is already off to an incredible start, with a peer-to-peer fundraising team of 20 people having raised over $25,000 toward a $35,000 goal.  

Additional fundraising activities throughout the weekend will help boost this total, reinforcing the community’s commitment to supporting mental health resources in the Flathead Valley. 

"This event is truly special," says Corrie Holloway, NCF Outreach Coordinator. "The group of people who come together for this weekend is a testament to the strength and generosity of our community. Their support of NCF’s mission is a powerful reminder of the collective effort it takes to make a difference, and we are incredibly grateful for the love and encouragement they bring to this cause." 

Weekend schedule and fundraising events:  

Friday, March 22: 

Pint Night at Blackstar Brewpub with Auction and Raffle, 5 to 8:30 p.m. Hosted by Stumptown Snowboards, a raffle and silent auction with awesome gear and local art, as well as a great community kick off to the weekend. 

Dine at Huck’s Place in Whitefish: Mention Nate Chute Foundation, and 10% of your order will be donated to NCF. 

Saturday, March 23: 

Banked Slalom Competition 

Pint Night at Bonsai Brewing Project, 4 to 8 p.m.  

Sunday, March 24: 

Boardercross on the Goat Haunt course in an exciting head-to-head format. 

Lap for the Lost at 4:15 p.m.: A participant-led gathering at the statue at the top of Chair 2. Please note: this is not an official NCF or Whitefish Mountain Resort event but rather an organic moment of remembrance for those impacted by loss. 

Awards Ceremony: Wrapping up the weekend by celebrating the fastest racers and the NCF fundraising champions who have made an enormous impact on NCF. 

Raffle for a Whitefish Mountain Resort Ski Pass: Tickets are $25 each, with only 300 available. The lucky winner will be drawn at the awards ceremony on Sunday. 

A full weekend of connection:  

This annual event is a local favorite, bringing together snowboarders of all ages and abilities, along with friends, family, and supporters, to celebrate the power of community in the face of life’s challenges. In a world that can sometimes feel divided, the Nate Chute Banked Slalom and Boardercross event stands as a beacon of connection, resilience and shared purpose. 

Every dollar raised helps NCF continue its vital work in suicide prevention, education and mental health advocacy throughout the Flathead Valley. To learn more or contribute to the fundraiser, visit www.natechutefoundation.org.