WINTER IS HERE!
The leaves are all but gone, a chill is in the air, and the fluffy white stuff is just around the corner! We couldn't be more excited and read for the 2023/2024 snowshoeing season here at Northern Lites.
We compiled a one-stop shop for snowshoe racing in Wisconsin for the 2023-2024 snow season. If you've never tried, running with snowshoes is a great way to keep your legs in shape in the winter. Race registrations are now opening daily!
Snowshoe racing is a popular winter sport in Wisconsin, offering a unique and challenging experience for outdoor enthusiasts. With its snowy landscapes and picturesque piney trails, Wisconsin is an ideal location for snowshoe races.
In this article, we will explore some of the exciting snowshoe races taking place in Wisconsin this upcoming winter. Many of the best snowshoe races of 2023/2024 are in Wisconsin. In fact, the USSSA Snowshoe Nationals Championship is being held in Eau Claire, WI!
USSSA NATIONALS CHAMPIONSHIP
Perhaps the grand-daddy of all Wisconsin snowshoe races this season, the USSSA (United States Snowshoe Association) is holding its national championship 10k race in Eau Claire this February. Events will include the 5K open, Half-Marathon, kids races, and of course, the 10K National Championship race.
After being held in McCall, Idaho in 2023, the 2024 Nationals won’t disappoint with former women’s championship Jackie Herring helping plan the race as director of the USSSA. “Eau Claire is a perfect city to host Snowshoe Nationals…There are activities and entertainment for everyone and an excellent trail system for the races. The location is great for the Midwest snowshoeing community and we are looking forward to having a whole weekend of winter fun.”
Check out our recap of the 2023 McCall, ID race here! What a great time it was - Northern Lites was proud to be a sponsor of the race.
NORTH END CLASSIC SNOWSHOE RACE
Located in the beautiful rolling pine hills of Northern Wisconsin, the North End Snowshoe Classic Run/Walk is an annual race that features a 5k and 10k. They also offer adult and children’s cross country ski races as well as a summer trail run race held in May each year.
The race is held by the North End Ski Club, whos' goal is to provide outstanding recreational activities for local residents and area visitors. They will be sure to keep you warm in their warming houses after the race!
BALSAM LAKE SNOWSHOE RACE
The 12th annual 5K trail race! This is a fun and family-centric outdoor winter activity for everyone. Bring your friends, your family, your dogs, and your sense of adventure for an enjoyable day on a beautiful trail through Balsam Lake.
Who doesn't love pine trees? Surrounded by beautiful pines in the American Legion in Pine Park , all proceeds go toward the improvement of Pine Park. Th race goes around Balsam Lake through the forest.
Don't forget to bring your dog!
BOOK ACROSS THE BAY SNOWSHOE RACE
Book Across the Bay open to skiers and snowshoers of all ages and ability levels. It relies on a frozen lake Superior Chequamegon Bay held in the middle of winter. The 10-kilometer course typically starts in Ashland and ends in Washburn.
The event is held at night, and participants are guided by 1,000 candles on the ice as well as the night stars. This is one you will want to bundle up for, as night-time temperatures can drop fast! A few minutes into the race however, and you will warm up quickly.
PHILLIPS FLURRY SNOWSHOE RACE
Located in the heart of the Northwoods of Wisconsin, The Phillips Flurry is a popular snowshoe race that draws participants from various skill levels and backgrounds. The Flurry is also commonly the home of the Wisconsin State Snowshoe Championships. Lakes surround the area, as well as rolling pine trees that seem to continue forever.
This is a classic Up North snowshoe race that offers a 5k run/walk and a more competitive 10k race. Be sure to register early to save on the entry fee. Snowshoe rentals available are available from the Silly Goose in Park Falls, WI. Contact them at 715-762-1970.
SNOWSHOE SCURRY SNOWSHOE RACE #1
One of the most anticipated snowshoe races in Wisconsin is the Snowshoe Scurry, a race held annually in January or February. This event attracts participants from all over the state who are eager to test their skills and endurance on the snow-covered trails. The race features different categories based on age and skill level, ensuring that everyone can participate and enjoy the experience.
The 11th annual, this series is in the Madison area with a 5k and 10k. All levels of skill are welcome – you can walk, run, hike or do a mix. The first race on January 6th is in Madison, in the beautiful University of Wisconsin Arboretum that is a sanctuary in the middle of the state's capital.
SNOWSHOE SCURRY SNOWSHOE RACE #2
The 2nd Snowshoe Scurry race is located in Sun Prairie/Cottage Grove on January 21 2024. If you can't make the first race, this is a great option for the Southern WI region.
FROZEN ASSETS RUN/WALK 5K
The Frozen Assets 5K Race on Lake Mendota in Madison, WI, will epitomize winter resilience on February 3rd, 2024. Against the backdrop of the snow-laden landscape of Madison's skyline and the frozen lake's expanse, participants embraced the chilly challenge. A diverse community of runners united for a common cause — supporting the Clean Lakes Alliance's mission to preserve local lakes race the 5K in regular shoes, snowshoes, and cross country skis every year. Celebrate your contribution to environmental conservation, making this wintry run a memorable and impactful event.
RACING SUMMARY
If you're interested in participating in a snowshoe race in Wisconsin this upcoming winter, be sure to check the event websites for registration details and race schedules. Remember to dress appropriately for the weather and bring your own snowshoes or rent them from a local outdoor gear shop. Whether you're a seasoned racer or a beginner, snowshoe racing in Wisconsin is a thrilling and memorable experience that shouldn't be missed.
If you still need running snowshoes, Northern Lites running snowshoes aren’t only ultralight and durable, they’re very easy to use and beginner friendly. The goal of our running snowshoes is to make them feel effortless, like a running shoe would. There’s a reason champions wear Northern Lites!
GEAR FOR SNOWSHOE RACING
New to snowshoe racing? Northern Lites and snowshoe racing go way back. We've developed the lightest and fastest snowshoes for racing, great for beginners and experts alike. Our Race Snowshoe can get you into this great sport in no time. We have great running accessories, like the USSSA snowshoe gators that keep any snow out of your
