Summit Ski Race at Mt. Ashwabay
Saturday January 31st, 2026 marks the 20th anniversary of the annual Summit Ski Race at Mt. Ashwabay in Bayfield, WI!
There is something for everyone at this traditional Bayfield event, which features 8 cross-country ski races, including a 30k Skiathlon, 30k Classic, 30k Skate, 5k Classic, 5k Skate, and 7k & 3.5k Freestyle. They even have special categories for middle school, high school, and college XC skiers. Registration is available online, or in person on the day of the event, so wax your skis and get registered today!
Ask any skier about the race, and they’ll tell you when Mt. Ashwabay says Summit Race, they mean it. The race features a long, steady climb to the peak, which sits 1328 feet above sea level!
Smuuit Race Course Map: College and citizen race course is a 15k loop, the 30k racers will complete 2 laps.
In 2025, the Summit XC Race hosted over 400 skiers from Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Michigan, with participants ranging in age from middle school to their 80s. Check out the results from the 2025 Summit Race HERE.
SKING FOR PIE: All winners get an entire pie for their victory. Every Summit Ski Race Participant gets a slice of pie once their race is completed.
Not in the racing mood, or not a skier at all? That’s okay. The race encourages spectators. The first race begins at 8:00 am, but staggered start times mean great action for spectators through midday. You can even volunteer and help make this year’s Mt. Ashwabay Summit Ski Race the best year ever. Check out the registration link above and scroll down to “Volunteer” to register to help out.
Worried about the cold? Mt. Ashwabay has a heated chalet on site to warm up and take in the views of the beautiful surroundings. While you are inside grab a hot chocolate or a snack from the snack bar. Are you interested in exploring the best Bayfield ski trails yourself? XC Ski rentals are available on site as well! Not a skier? Grab some snowshoes and explore the walking trails.
GREAT DAY FOR A SKI! The perfectly groomed Abbey Road. One of many Mt. Ashwabay xc ski trails maintained throughout the Bayfield ski season.
