Journey into the American Birkebeiner

When winter lays its white cloak across Wisconsin’s Northwoods, anticipation reaches a fever pitch for one of the country’s biggest and most beloved winter sports festivals.

Originating in 1973 with just 35 determined skiers on the start line, the American Birkebeiner, otherwise known as The Birkie, now draws tens of thousands of enthusiasts each February to traverse the legendary trail between Cable and Hayward, Wisconsin.

In addition to the main race, there are so many events that an entire week is required for all of the activities and races .

Here’s what makes the Birkie Week such an unforgettable invitation to experience winter’s wild side, Wisconsin-style.

The Lead-in: Prerace Events & Atmosphere

Before the main event, the Birkie calendar teases the trail and builds the buzz with several events the week leading up to the main event. Whether you’re a competitor in these races or just a spectator on the sidelines, Birkie Week’s lead-up events have something for everyone in your crew. Here are the highlights.

Barkie Birkie

Man’s best friend is more than a spectator during Birkie Week; he/she can be a full-fledged participant. Fan-favorite, Barkie Birkie, is one of Birkie Week’s most heartwarming traditions, where high fives are accompanied by plenty of tail wags. Skijoring teams—each made up of one skier and one enthusiastic pup—race along 1K, 3K, or 5K routes. Rooted in the centuries-old Norwegian tradition of skikjøring, or “ski driving,” this event blends cross-country skiing with canine companionship for a joyful, high-energy winter adventure.

Barnebirkie

The Barnebirkie Youth Ski Tour welcomes skiers ages 3 to 13 for a joyful, non-competitive event that celebrates winter fun and outdoor adventure. Participants pick their perfect challenge—a 1/2K, 1K, or 3K route—all of which glide through the snow and finish triumphantly at the legendary American Birkebeiner finish line on Main Street in Hayward.

Junior Birkie

The Junior Birkie is a spirited, competitive ski race with individual and team sprint relay components. It’s designed for young Birkie enthusiasts ages 6 to 13 who can ski their little hearts out toward the cheers of spectators lining the streets of downtown Hayward. Individual races start at 1pm, with skiers under 10 taking on a 1.5K course, and those aged 10 to 13 tackling a thrilling 3K.

Once the individual races wrap up, team relay races kick off at 3pm. Two-person teams from grades 1 through 12 can chase glory in the Junior Birkie Team Sprint Relays.

ParaBirkie

The American Birkebeiner is for everyone to enjoy, and the ParaBirkie invites adaptive skiers to carve their own chapter into Birkie lore. This 1.5K race begins behind Hayward Intermediate and culminates in a triumphant finish amid cheering crowds. Designed for adaptive athletes and their support teams, the ParaBirkie offers the unique opportunity to compete on the celebrated Birkie Trail during the excitement of Birkie Week. And remember, adaptive skiers are welcome well beyond the ParaBirkie and are encouraged to reach out if they wish to compete in other events.

Giant Ski

What’s better than a day out on your skis? A day out with five of your friends on skis…or better yet, just one huge ski. Arguably the most spirited event of Birkie Week, the Birkie Giant Ski Race brings laughter, teamwork and just the right amount of chaos to Hayward’s Main Street. Teams of six clip into a single pair of oversized skis and race head-to-head in fun, fast-paced heats. Giant skis are provided, so just bring your crew—friends, family, coworkers—and a sense of humor. Space is limited to 30 teams, so rally your squad now!

Kortelopet

The Kortelopet (affectionately called “the Korte”) is the storied sibling of the American Birkebeiner, drawing over 3,000 skiers each year to test their mettle on a 29K stretch of the iconic Birkie Trail. Starting at the OO Trailhead and finishing in downtown Hayward, the Korte delivers all the thrill, camaraderie and competitive spirit of a major ski race, packed into a shorter but equally exhilarating distance.

Prince Haakon

The Prince Haakon 15K honors both a pivotal moment in Norwegian history and the origins of the American Birkebeiner itself. Named for the baby prince carried to safety on skis during World War II—an act that became a powerful symbol of courage, endurance and freedom—the race reflects the same grit and determination celebrated throughout Birkie week. Today, that legacy comes to life along a 15K journey that winds through serene forest stretches along the Birkie Trail, across the frozen expanse of Lake Hayward and up and over the famed American Birkebeiner International Bridge before finishing to cheers on snow-covered Main Street in downtown Hayward. 

The Main Event

American Birkebeiner

The Slumberland American Birkebeiner is North America's premier cross-country ski race and a cherished winter tradition that draws thousands of skiers from around the globe. Covering more than 50 kilometers of the stunning Northwoods terrain, the race begins at the Cable Trailhead and winds through dense forests, rolling hills and across frozen lakes along the legendary Birkie Trail.

The grand finale is nothing short of electric: skiers climb the American Birkebeiner International Bridge and charge down Hayward’s snow-blanketed Main Street, crossing the iconic finish line to the roar of cheering crowds and cowbells. It’s not just a race; it’s a rite of passage.

An estimated 40,000 skiers and spectators are expected to attend the Slumberland American Birkebeiner’s Birkie Week, making it North America’s largest and most prestigious cross-country ski race. In addition to skiing, there will also be plenty of food, fun, live music and Northwoods tradition to fill out your visit.

Fat Bike Birkie

On the weekend after Birkie Week, the fun continues with the Fat Bike Birkie. After riding on the professionally groomed American Birkebeiner Ski Trail (distances are 10, 21, and 47 K), participants can check out and test equipment at the Birkie Fat Bike Expo and afterparty.

Whether you’re a seasoned cross-country skiing vet or someone just getting started, Birkie Week provides many opportunities to gather, learn and grow in the sport. Make sure to check deadlines for all side events as well as the main event so you and your skiing crew don’t miss out.