University of Utah to Host Rail Jam November 6
Woodward Park City returns to campus with a temporary snow park on the Olpin Student Union lawn.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Skiing
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The University of Utah will host its second annual rail jam on November 6, 2026. This student-focused event will feature a professional exhibition and a competition on a custom snow park built atop the Olpin Student Union lawn.
Why it matters
The event provides a unique venue for winter sports engagement by bringing professional athletes directly to campus. It also highlights a collaborative effort between the university, local companies, and professional skiers to promote skiing culture.
Crews will haul 30 tons of ice to create the sliding surface for the rail and box features. The event includes a vendor village with 25 companies and 10 student organizations.
The players
Woodward Park City
This is a popular action sports training facility and park located in Park City, Utah.
Tom Wallisch
He is a professional freeskier known for his extensive contributions to the sport and video production.
Reid Smith
He is a professional freeskier recognized for his performance in various competitive events.
Taylor Lundquist
She is a professional freeskier celebrated for her technical skills and innovative film segments.
Katie Kennedy
She is a professional skier who participates in industry exhibitions and competitions.
The details
Organizers will begin transporting ice to the Salt Lake City campus on November 1, where it will be chipped to form the snow base. The event is free for students, staff, and faculty, while general public tickets are available for $10.
Timeline
October 30, 2026: Deadline for student participation applications.
November 1, 2026: Ice transport to the campus begins.
November 6, 2026: The rail jam event takes place.
Season Trajectory
The inaugural University of Utah rail jam successfully established a campus tradition that this year's event builds upon. By integrating professional exhibition with student competition, the event strengthens the local ties between academic life and the Utah winter sports industry.
Students, staff, and faculty can attend the event for free, while general public access requires a $10 ticket. Interested students must submit their participation applications by the October 30 deadline.
The takeaway
This event offers a rare opportunity to watch professional skiers perform in an unconventional campus setting. Attendees should note that general admission tickets are required for those not affiliated with the university.
Further reading
Learn more about local winter sports activities on the Skiing page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KPCW Radio.
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