Mount Ashwabay Summit Nordic Ski Race 2025

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  • By Darcy Schwerin
Mount Ashwabay Summit Nordic Ski Race 2025

Mt. Ashwabay Hosts 19th Annual Summit Nordic Ski Race in Bayfield

 

 

(Bayfield, Wis) – Thanks to geography, dedicated volunteer groomers, and a little luck, Mt. Ashwabay was able to open all of their nordic trails in mid-December, offering some of the best skiing in the region so far this winter. Local skiers and visitors have been thrilled by the early season conditions, and the conditions are looking promising for the cross country ski race season to come.  

 

The 19th annual Ashwabay Summit Nordic Ski Race will be held Saturday, February 1st, 2024 and will showcase scenic segments of the 43k network of skate and classic cross country ski trails at Mt. Ashwabay. “After a disappointing winter last year, we are expecting a big turnout in 2025,” said Kate Ullman, Race Director. “The Summit Race has been growing in recent years due to the addition of new race distances, great snow, fantastic trails, and of course pie for all finishers.”  

 

The Ashwabay cross country trail system has become regionally renowned for consistent snow, top notch grooming, and world class views from the top of the hill.  “Ashwabay is such a hidden gem,” said Ullman, “we hope the Summit Race brings new skiers to experience our fantastic trail network.”

 

The course climbs through mature stands of maple, hemlock and birch, to top out with views of Lake Superior. Then comes a long descent down the south side of the ridge to finish at the chalet.   Skiers can choose to compete in 15k or 30k events, and can choose the classic or skate technique in each. The variety of race options make it a great event for recreational skiers, and competitors alike.  

 

Skiers can also choose the skiathlon, a format that has gained in popularity and was featured as a Nordic event at the Winter Olympics in Beijing.  After one lap on the course using classic skis, competitors switch to the stake technique. There are only a few opportunities to compete in this unique event in the midwest. 

 

“We love the festive atmosphere of the Summit Race.  It is really great to host so many visiting skiers and introduce them to our trails.  And it is super impressive to witness the skill level of the top racers, as well as the sheer joy of the youth participants,” said Doug Olson, the Director of Mt. Ashwabay. 

 

“The Summit race is so fun because of the small-town feeling, the unique chance to do a skiathlon, and getting to ski on the Ashwabay Nordic trails.  These are some of the best in the area,” said Ketzel Levens, who grew up in Bayfield, skied for the UW-Madison Nordic ski team, and now travels from Duluth to participate in the race.

 

The day starts with middle school (3.5K) and high school (7.5K) races.  Our local 4-H CANSKI middle school team has a record 38 participants this year, and the kids are looking forward to their first race. The high school varsity Chequamegon Area Nordic team will also compete.

 

Well over 100 skiers from more than a dozen colleges across the midwest are expected to participate in this conference event for The Midwest Collegiate Ski Association.  It’s a chance to see some incredibly talented young skiers who bring athleticism, enthusiasm, and camaraderie.  

 

All skiers will get a slice of pie, thanks to generous local sponsors and community bakers.  The day will culminate with an awards ceremony on the Big Top stage, including age group awards as well as entire pies for the overall winners.  

 

New in 2025, the Summit Race is part of the “Tour de Finn”, a series of races in the region where finishers can earn points and compete in overall standings.  The race is also a Birkie qualifier, allowing finishers to get a better start time for the big race.

 

Youth and college racers must pre-register with their team, or they can register individually online if they are not part of a team.   Citizen racers can register online, or onsite.  

 

All funds raised benefit the non-profit host of the event, Mt. Ashwabay, and support youth programs, and nordic grooming operations. 

 

Register today to enjoy edible prizes, scenic skiing trails, and a great community event.  Or consider volunteering to help make the race a success.  For additional information about the race see the race website:  https://ashwabaysummitskirace.com/

 

A special thanks to our sponsors for making this event happen: 2025 Peak Sponsors: Howl Adventure Center, Black Cat Coffee Shop, and Sharptail Construction. Additional sponsors include  Edmunds and Company, Full Keel Coffee, The Good Thyme, Honest Dog Books, and John and Megan Boyle.