AUSTRALIA'S largest international ski event, the Kangaroo Hoppet, will not proceed as an on-snow event at Falls Creek this month.

The planning committee made the call last week to cancel the on-snow event, scheduled for Saturday, August 28.

Race director Ben Derrick said the combination of international and interstate travel bans with the uncertainty around the level of Victorian COVID restrictions that would apply over the next fortnight meant the committee felt it wasn’t able to offer a safe event for participants and volunteers in the alpine environment.

This year was to be the 30th anniversary of this unique cross country event, celebrating the huge contribution Australia's prestigious Worldloppet race - with its 42km, 21km and 7km distances - have made to Falls Creek, Australia and the sport.

All is not completely lost though as the 'Virtual Hoppet' - allowing people to enter and cover a race distance doing any activity they wish, anywhere they wish - is still open.

And in addition, Mr Derrick said for those who can get to Falls Creek organisers are planning to offer an 'open track' style event from Monday, August 23 to Saturday, August 28 for skiers that can during Hoppet Week.

"With support from Parks Victoria and Falls Creek Resort Management our volunteers will be putting out course signage and km markers and setting up a few bells and whistles in the Nordic Bowl to give skiers a sense of involvement," he said.

"Skiers will be able to come and go as they please and take a selfie on the traditional Hoppet podium.

"Please note that your safety is your responsibility, as it would be for any other day skiing at Falls Creek.

"The Hoppet will not be offering any emergency support.

"If you experience trouble, please call Falls Creek Ski Patrol 5758 1234 or in an emergency call 000."

Despite the Kangaroo Hoppet itself not going ahead, the Hoppet shop will be open daily during Hoppet Week with the usual array of memorabilia and merchandise.

"Of particular note is the great Hoppet Dozen from local vineyards in the valleys," said Mr Derrick.

"Also, the collector's item Hoppet 30th year anniversary t-shirts when it's not actually going to be the 30th year celebration."

For the people that have entered to date, entry will be rolled over into next year or they can get a full refund.

All entries to date will also receive a complimentary entry into the virtual event.

For more details go to hoppet.com.au