Ski North Ultramarathon returning to Lutsen March 7, 2026

Ultramarathon returns to Lutsen in 2026
Experience the Ultimate Cross-Country Skiing Adventure on Minnesota's North Shore

Lutsen, Minn. (August 21, 2025) - Visit Cook County is thrilled to announce the return of Ski North Ultra, set to take place Saturday, March 7, 2026 (pending permit approval). This premier event offers cross-country skiing enthusiasts an unparalleled opportunity to traverse the scenic landscapes of Minnesota's North Shore, with race distances of 25K, 50K, and a challenging 100K.

Participants will embark on a journey through interconnected trail systems, including the Norpine, Cascade River State Park, and Bally Creek trails near Lutsen, MN. The race begins and concludes at Cascade River State Park, guiding skiers through diverse terrains featuring birch, fir, cedar, and pine forests, with occasional wintery vistas of Lake Superior. The course predominantly features beginner to intermediate trails, with select advanced sections, and is designed for classic-style skiing.

"The Ski North Ultra is more than a race; it's an immersive experience into the natural beauty of the North Shore," said Race Director Allie Rykken. "Whether you're aiming for a personal best or seeking a full-day adventure on skis, this event caters to all levels of endurance athletes."

This event joins a series of long-distance marathon events in the area with the Superior Trail Races, Lutsen 99er mountain bike race, and the Le Grand Du Nord Gravel Cycling Classic all featuring a course with distances over 50 and 100 miles.

“We’re excited to welcome Ski North Ultra for a second year,” said Linda Jurek, Executive Director of Visit Cook County. “This event is one of the longest cross-country ski races in the Midwest with the most elevation change and epic scenery.”

The Norpine, Cascade, and Bally Creek ski trails are well known for their dramatic elevation changes. Ultramarathoners who sign up for the 100km distance will see an elevation climb of 3,707 feet over the 100km distance.

Event Details:

Date: March 7, 2026
Distances: 25K, 50K, 100K
Start/Finish Location: Cascade River State Park, near Lutsen, MN
Registration: Open now at Ski North Ultra

Early registration is encouraged, as spots are limited. For more information on the event, course maps, and preparation tips, please visit the official Ski North Ultra website. The event is also looking for volunteers, especially in its inaugural year. Join us for a memorable day of cross-country skiing, community, and the breathtaking beauty of Cook County's winter landscapes.

Visit Cook County, Minnesota
Visit Cook County encompasses the northeastern Minnesota communities of Lutsen, Tofte, Schroeder, Grand Marais, the Gunflint Trail and Grand Portage, commonly referred to as “the Arrowhead” and the “North Shore of Lake Superior.” Grand Marais, Minn., has earned several national accolades — most recently, it was named America's Best Small Lake Town by Travel & Leisure Magazine, USA Today’s Best Midwestern Small Town, and Outside Magazine’s The 16 Best Places to Live in the U.S. 2016. Rekindle your sense of adventure by exploring the Superior National Forest or paddling through the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Discover what makes the communities of Cook County, Minn. “Naturally Unforgettable.” Connect on social media using #donorthmn, Twitter @CookCoVisitors, Facebook, or Instagram @donorthmn. Learn more at VisitCookCounty.com.

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