Husband ran the Birkie Marathon. Great freindly event in a beuatiful area. Lots to do around the event as well
The finish line is in Hayward, WI. This year WI DOT demanded a bridge over Hwy 27/63 just before the finish line. It looked like they ALL made it up that bridge-after skiing 34 miles-amazing. Bearded men had icicle beards and mustaches coming in at the finish. When we got too cold standing around admiring their skill, we stopped in at Hook Stone Winery where they made some fabulous hot glug with their GOOD wine. We could see all the athletes go by just about to the finish line. Also watched the skiers from Wheeler Road which was closed, parked on Chippewa Trail Road and walked over to the trail. It was a good spot to cheer them on. Other activities before the Birkie on Sat, was the Barkie Birkie on Thurs. Those dogs were amusing. Some succumbed to the children calling from the barriers, one escaped at the start!, a tiny poodle finished before some of the bigger stronger more sociable dogs, and then there were the serious competitive dogs that just stuck to business and brought their skivers in first. And then there was the giant ski race-again-very amusing. It was very cold out but fun to watch. Weather is only as bad as how we dress, right?
This Wisconsin area is very organized for these trails, beautiful scenery, great remote roads around, a must to do when in that area for bikers & hikers
The Birkie trail is one of a kind. It is well cared for and open to anyone all year. Silent sports lovers will appreciate it.
Birkie is a big event. This year two days before the big race we received 16" of new snow. What a weekend. It is a very well organized weekend of fun for all. Beautiful trail scenery, challenging trials and alot of fun for the hole family.
This is early to be able to ski on these trails. Mid November 2014 when we were here, the trails were not packed as well as they will be later. Typically, these groomed and tracked to perfection. Some portions are for advanced skiers, but there are loops for all ages and talents
The Birkebeiner Trail should be a destination for any cross country skier. There are over 100 miles of ski trails in the Cable WIsconsin area and the Birke. trail runs from Cable to Hayward. It is extremely well maintained and groomed for classic and skate skiing. The terrain is hilly and challenging. The fee is $10.00 per vehicle or $50.00 for a year pass.
Challenging and beautiful. The marathon course was well organized and executed. The scenery running through the forests were breath-taking with all the leaves changing colors. Teh volunteers were super friendly and helpful
If you are in Hayward to cross-country ski you absolutely have to ski the Bikebeiner trail. This is true cross country skiing - stop whining and do those hills like 9,000 skiers do every year. We call it up-hill skiing and it's tough - however the thrill of completing 10k, 12k, 22k, of some of the toughest trails in the World Loppet is well worth the effort.
This was a nice walk. It was relaxed with nice atmosphere. Granted we did go in August at dusk but it was muggy and there were lots of bugs. However, that is pretty much everywhere in Wisconsin at dusk in summer.