Up North Action Dec/Jan 2016

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Editor’s Column Winter adventures begin here

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icture yourself in the Northwoods gliding along on crosscountry skis as you duck under a pine bough bowed under the weight of countless fluffy flakes that fell the previous night. Or, conquer mile after mile of perfectly groomed snowmobile trails that lead through the enchanted forest.

The Northwoods with its thousands of acres of public land available to all is a winter playground, hosting weekends full of exciting races, from the silent sports of XC and snowshoes, to snowmobiles that zip along the oval track. Speaking of zipping, have you visited a zip line park in the winter? The ski hills beckon all ages of downhill skiers, amateur and advanced. There’s food and drink afterwards.

The sound of ice augers chewing through a foot or more of ice can

be heard on lakes. Want solitude while fishing. Go for it. Want buddies around.

Have it your way. Want lots of company?

Head for a fishing tournament.

Perhaps your cup of tea (or glass of faDean S. Acheson vorite wine) is just that: served by your accommodating host or hostess and sipped in front of a crackling fire in the fireplace. Tomorrow will bring unique shops to browse, antiques perhaps on your mind, and later dinner with the friend you brought to share the beauty of the Northwoods.

There’s ice-skating, snow tubing, pond hockey and ice golf tournaments, even turkey bowling! Or take in live theater, concerts and casinos for indoor entertainment. It’s a sure bet you will fall in love with the land they call Up North.

Inside this Issue

Cover picture courtesy of Dean S. Acheson. BO-BBB’S – The Bo-BBB’s are a group of women who snowmobile together every Wednesday

during the season, leaving from the Bo-Boen groomer barn in St. Germain at 9am sharp. They are pictured here going through Boulder Junction.

The group will have an “overnighter” in February. All women riders are welcome, simply show up at the groomer barn on Wednesdays just before 9am. For questions, call Penny McCormick at 715-542-2537.

Editor’s Column..................................................................................................................................................................................................................Pg. 4 St. Croix Rods.......................................................................................................................................................................................... Inside Front Cover Ski Brule...................................................................................................................................................................................................... Inside Back Cover Runamuk Rides..................................................................................................................................................................................................... Back Cover Big Snow Country - Western U.P. Michigan........................................................................................................ Center Section

Region Communities

Ashland/Bayfield Counties............ Pg. 5 Burnett/Douglas Counties............ Pg. 6 Forest/Langlade Counties............. Pg. 8 Iron County......................................... Pg. 9 Lincoln County................................Pg. 11

Published By: 5 Star Marketing & Distribution 409 Southpark Drive Tomahawk, WI 54487 800-353-4511 • 715-453-4511 E-mail: info@5starupnorth.com

Marathon County...........................Pg. 14 Oneida County................................Pg. 15 Polk County......................................Pg. 23 Price County.....................................Pg. 32 Sawyer County............................... Pg. 35

Owner/Publisher Al Hanley alh@5starupnorth.com Editor Dean Acheson DeanAcheson@yahoo.com Accounting Jackie Blodgett

Shawano............................................Pg. 38 Vilas County..................................... Pg. 40 Washburn County..........................Pg. 51 U.P. Michigan....................................Pg. 52

Marketing Associates Al Hanley Jody Peterson Janine Dutton-Slatinsky Distribution Brandee Benson Jeff Safranek Brian Wiedeman

Production Office Lori Morris Graphic Designers Danelle Pretasky Brittany Hazelquist

© 2015 5 Star Marketing & Distribution, LLC. All material in this publication is copyrighted and may not be reprinted in any form without the written consent of 5 Star Marketing & Distribution.

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Ashland/Bayfield COUNTIES Calendar

Sleigh & Cutter Rally kicks off at Visitor Center

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SHLAND – There is art and beauty surrounding the Sleigh & Cutter Rally that must be experienced in person. The rally will be held for the 30th year on Saturday, Jan. 9 at the Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center in Ashland. Under favorable weather conditions, the event draws more than 2,000 visitors.

The judged competition features several divisions for youth and adult participants.

The Northwoods Harness Club sponsors the free event and welcomes the public. Hook-up time is 11am with the Exhibition (narrated parade) at 1pm. Just before the show drivers head out to the practice area and drive around. There will be free sleigh rides for the public from 11am to 12:30pm.

Grab some hot food and other treats inside the Visitor Center, which is a convenient place to warm up if it’s extra cold outside.

The center also has many interesting exhibits. For a panoramic view of the countryside and the Exhibition area, go to the observation tower where you can either stay inside the glass enclosure

Dec. 12 Bayfield – Santa Arrives on Ferry: Lakeside Pavilion. 800-447-4094.

Dec. 12 Iron River, WI – Christmas Bazaar & Cookie Walk: Community Center.

715-372-8558.

Jan. 9 Ashland – Sleigh & Cutter Rally: Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center. Hookup at 11am, narrated parade at 1pm. Free sleigh rides.

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Jan. 16 Seeley – Seeley Hills Classic XC Ski Race: Birkie Trailhead at Hwy. OO start, 10am.

Jan. 17 Seeley – Birkie Trail Tour: Morning start, untimed, non-competitive XC ski event.

Feb. 13 Ashland – Book Across the Bay: XC or snowshoe 10 km across the bay from Ashland to Washburn. Lit by candles in ice luminaries. Start at 6pm at Maslowski Beach.

or step outside on the viewing platform that surrounds it.

Visitors will see several types of sleighs, including speed sleighs or “cutters,” during the Exhibition. Others include the Canadian/ Russian sleigh – built for the heavy snow of far north climates; and business sleighs, which as their name says, were used for delivery of goods.

The horses range from the “miniature” breeds and fuzzy ponies to the powerful and huge draft teams of Clydesdales and Percherons. You might see mules and donkeys pulling sleighs.

Together with the driver and passengers, each sleigh leaps off the pictures by Currier and Ives. The 1800s-style clothing (some authentic), sleigh, horse and harness are painstakingly matched to woo the judges’ votes.

The Visitor Center is located just west of Ashland, 29270 County Highway G. Visit nglvc.org or call 715-685-9983 for more information and updates on the rally if coming from a distance.

Seeley Hills Classic XC Ski Race draws many racers

SEELEY –The Seeley Hills Classic XC Ski Race on Saturday, Jan. 16 will attract many of the region’s elite skiers because of the large cash prizes for the top finishers. Last year’s men’s division was very competitive with third place just 24 seconds behind the winner, Tad Elliott.

$250 for second, $125 for third.

For others, it’s an opportunity to weigh their skiing skills and stamina against those elite skiers, as well as being on the famed American Birkebeiner Ski Trail.

Everyone is invited to take part in the Birkie Trail Tour on Sunday, Jan. 17. The Birkie Tour is an untimed, non-competitive, “open-track” style event. The large loop is 48 km with many cutoffs to ski as little as 12 km. Spend the day skiing with family and friends with a morning start time, short and long distance options, aid stations (light) along the trail, and food and beverage at the start/finish line when you’re done.

The all classical technique 42K and 22K races on Saturday will have a 10am start time at the OO warming building on the Birkie Trail. The 42K Classic is a Birkebeiner qualifying race and is sanctioned by USSA. The 5K high school race starts at 10:15am at OO as well.

The first 500 skiers to finish the race will receive the new SWIX Classic Ski Hat. The Penman Prize, to be awarded to the top male and female finishers in the 42K race, includes $1,000 for first,

Awards presentation and raffle prize drawings will follow the race at the Sawmill Salon in Seeley.

Birkie Trail Tour

You can even get credit for skiing a Worldloppet event. There are three distances to choose from: 48 km, 25 km or 12 km.

Go to birkie.com for a reduced registration fee for both events.

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Burnett/Douglas COUNTIES Calendar

Dec. 12 Danbury – Christmas at the Forts: Sleigh rides, holiday music, gift shopping, food.

Dec. 12 Webster – Santa Day: websterwisconsin. com.

Dec. 12 Grantsburg – Carnivore Tracking Workshop: 9am to 3pm, Crex Meadow Wildlife Ed & Visitor Center.

Dec. 13 Grantsburg – Wolf Ecology Workshop: 9am to 3pm, Crex Meadow Wildlife Ed & Visitor Center.

Dec. 19 Superior – Christmas Cookie and Bake Sale: 9am to 1pm Bethel Lutheran Church.

Lefse made on site, breads hot out of the oven, cookies sold by the pound, etc.

Here’s how to track predators and make your own tracks

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RANTSBURG -- Crex Meadows Wildlife Education & Visitor Center in Grantsburg is hosting a carnivore tracking workshop on Saturday, Dec. 12, from 9am to 3pm and a wolf ecology workshop the following day. Both are open to the public, and you can attend either one or both.

At Saturday’s session attendees will learn tracking skills, identification and interpreting gait. Training begins in the Visitor Center followed by outdoor field training. Be sure to dress for the weather conditions as fieldwork involves walking through snow.

Lunch and materials will be provided.

Pre-registration is required and the session is limited to 50 participants. Lodging is available at Luther Point Bible Camp for a small rental fee. To reserve a cabin, call 715-689-2347 or e-mail info@lutherpoint.org.

Then on Sunday, Dec. 13 learn with other wolf enthusiasts and

experts about wolf history, biology and monitoring techniques.

Hours of the wolf ecology workshop are 9am to 3pm. Lunch and materials will be provided.

Persons completing both the carnivore tracking workshop and wolf ecology workshop will qualify to become a Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources volunteer carnivore tracker and assist with tracking surveys.

Candlelight hike or snowshoe Enjoy a peaceful February evening walking or snowshoeing at Crex Meadows Wildlife Area. The date had not been set as of this print deadline. Check crexmeadows.com for updates. The 1.25mile trail will take you through mostly forest with a small observation tower overlooking a marsh. Afterwards, warm up inside with hot chocolate and baked goods. Snowshoes will be available on a first come, first serve basis. Bring a flashlight or headlamp.

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County has more than 300 miles of snowmobile trails

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OUGLAS COUNTY – Whether you’re pushing the snowmobile down the straight-and-narrow of a former railroad bed or threading your way through the dense forest, Douglas County has what you want for a great snowmobile adventure.

More than 300 miles of groomed trails are groomed and ready for avid snowmobilers and ATVers journeying to this far northwestern part of Wisconsin.

The region enjoys a reputation for fine trails and lots of snow. The county forestry department oversees the development and maintenance of the snowmobile and seasonal ATV trails as well as 10 miles of cross-country ski trails located within the county forest.

The county forest at 280,000 acres in size is the largest county forest in the state. The motorized trails link snowmobilers and ATVers to trails in Bayfield and Ashland counties and beyond.

Here’s a short intro for three trails available for snowmobiling and ATVing: Tri-County Corridor (also known as Corridor 2) consists of 60 miles of trail, paralleling Highway 2 and stretching straight as an arrow from the western trailhead in Superior through Brule and Iron River to the eastern trailhead in Ashland. Snowmobilers who take the spur trail to the Amnicon Falls State Park will be rewarded with spectacular views.

The Brule River State Forest has 32 miles of snowmobile trails; they can be accessed on the forest from a parking area on State Highway 27, just south of the Town of Brule. The Brule-St. Croix Trail is 26 miles long and connects the parking area on State Highway 27 to St. Croix Lake. Connecting trails link up to Bayfield and Douglas County trails. These trails are also open to ATVs in the winter if they are snow covered.

This 8-mile county-operated Saunders State Trail links with the Gandy Dancer State Trail south of the city of Superior in Douglas County. The trail begins near the town of Saunders and passes through the communities of Boylston Junction, Boylston and Borea before continuing into Minnesota. Along its route, the trail crosses Clear Creek and the Pokegama River. All-terrain vehicles are allowed on the trail year-round.

Call the county trail hotline 715378-4528 for trail conditions.

Info is available 24 hours a day 7 days a week.

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Forest/Langlade COUNTIES Calendar

Dec. 12 Crandon – Breakfast with Santa: Crandon High School.

Dec. 19 Antigo – Moonlight Ski & Snowshoe Walk: 7pm, Gartzke Flowage Trails. Antigobikeandskiclub.com.

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Make magic with moonlight; ski, snowshoe, hike available

NTIGO – There’s something special about winter outings when the sun has set and you’re kicking and gliding on cross-country ski paths. It’s especially enchanting when the bright, silvery moon shines down on the frosty landscape, illuminating the surrounding pines.

& Snowshoe Trails, W6379 5th Ave. Road, Antigo.

The stillness is broken only by the soft sounds of skis or snowshoes on snow, and the participants’ voices as they chat about nature’s nighttime beauty.

Moonlighters will want to keep Saturday, Jan. 23 at Jack Lake and Friday, Feb. 19 at Schmeisers’ on their calendar for additional ski/’shoe/hike under that silvery moon. For more information, call Laurie Shepherd at 715-627-5399 or visit antigobikeandskiclub.com.

The Antigo Bike & Ski Club will help you discover that world of wonder when they host a Moonlight Ski & Snowshoe Walk on Saturday, Dec. 19 at Gartzke Flowage Hiking, Cross-Country Ski

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Bring your skinny skis or snowshoes and meet at Gartzke at 7pm.

If there is not enough snow for skiing, then enjoy a trail hike.

Everyone is invited to gather at the shelter afterwards for snacks.

Bring finger food to share and your own drinks.

On track for hospitality, trail riding

OUNTYWIDE – Enjoy snowmobiling in Forest County with over 400 miles of groomed, state-funded trails winding through the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest.

With 92 percent of the land base being forested, the trails take you through endless miles of pristine forests.

100 Mile Snow Safari Trail: The 100 Mile Snow Safari has approximately 150 miles of marked and groomed trails through the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest linking all the localities of Forest County. Maps, food, etc., are available at pit stops throughout the system.

All trails link to hospitality businesses in Forest County, including the Potawatomi Casino and Hotel in Carter and the Mole Lake Casino and Lodge in Mole Lake, providing many pit stops along the trail for food, lodging and refreshments.

Lumberjack Memorial Trails: The Lumberjack Memorial Trails Club grooms and maintains over 90 miles of trails in central and southern Forest County. These trails link to the 100 Miler as well as to the trails in the Lakewood area.

These trails are very well maintained and signed by five area snowmobile clubs: The 100 Mile Snow Safari, Lumberjack Memorial Trails, Three Lakes/Brule Trails, Tombstone/Pickerel Trails and Black Bear Sportsmen’s Club,

Three Lakes Trails: The Three Lakes Trail system has over 80 miles of groomed trails in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, linking Forest and Oneida counties in the western half of the county.

Along the way riders can visit the communities of Alvin, Argonne, Armstrong Creek, Blackwell, Carter, Cavour, Crandon, Hiles, Laona, Mole Lake, Nelma, Newald, Popple River and Wabeno.

Tombstone-Pickerel Trails: The Tombstone-Pickerel Trails include over 20 miles of groomed trails in southwestern Forest County, with numerous pit stops and resorts, as well as provide a link to the Langlade County trail system.

Detailed trail maps are available at by contacting the Forest County Advertising Department at 1-866-722-7292 or at area businesses.

Black Bear Sportsmen’s Club: The Black Bear Club has over 40 miles of groomed trails, linking the Crandon area north and west to trails in Oneida County.

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Iron COUNTY Calendar

Dec. 12 Mercer – Candy Cane Christmas Celebration & Parade: 3:30pm parade start; then food, raffles, awards at Sno-Goers grooming barn.

Jan. 16 Mercer –Sno-Goers Winter Blast: Groomer barn, downtown Mercer. 10am to

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midnight. Food all day, vintage sno-mo display 10am to 2pm; live music starts at 7pm, raffles.

Jan. 30 Mercer – Justin Donner Memorial Fisheree: Headquartered at Donner’s Bay. Fishing Turtle-Flambeau Flowage. Cash prizes and fireworks follow awards ceremony. 715762-2956.

Oh, so sweet! Candy Cane Parade & baking contest

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ERCER – The fourth annual Mercer Candy Cane Christmas Celebration & Parade is scheduled to roll through downtown Mercer beginning at 3:30pm Saturday, Dec. 12.

If you have a sweet tooth you’ll enjoy the treats at the snowmobile barn. The homemade treats include the entries from the baking contest, again with three categories: cookies, bars, and candy.

They all have a candy cane or a peppermint theme.

The parade will start from the Mercer Area Chamber of Commerce building and go north on U.S. Hwy. 51. Some floats will carry lights, but all will incorporate the candy cane float theme.

The reigning Peppermint Princess and Candy Cane Queen will be on one of the floats.

Once through the downtown, the parade units turn right on Hwy. J, then right again on Railroad Street before ending at the Mercer Sno-Goers groomer barn. There, everyone will enjoy treats and hot cocoa, the 4:30pm drawing of the 50/50 raffle and the announcement of who won the baking and float contests. A $50 prize will be awarded for the winner in each of the three float categories: business, not for profit, and individuals.

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Mer cer

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Follow the XC tracks to this cozy cabin

ERCER – The MECCA cross-country ski trails are enchanting – day or night. Which is our way to encourage you to visit the Mercer-based trails come Saturday, Jan. 30 when the Mercer Cross Country Association (MECCA) hosts a candlelight ski.

A portion of the trail will be lighted by the soft glow of candle luminaries. Those familiar with candlelight ski events know they also welcome snowshoers and hikers. Hours for this event will be 6-9pm. Meet at the cabin trailhead (directions below).

The sponsors will make sure the log cabin is cozy and warm with a fire blazing in the wood stove. The cabin has a changing room and waxing bench. There are outdoors portable toilets. Typically, they offer visitors hot chocolate or hot cider to chase away the chill, along with cookies and other treats.

About the trail system The MECCA Trail System offers 21 km of cross-country trails with easy to intermediate options. All trails are groomed for classical, with skating available on 16 km. Hiking, snowshoeing and

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skijoring are allowed only on untracked (skating) portions. The 1.1 km snowshoe and hiking loop begins and ends at the cabin.

Although fewer in numbers during winter, wildlife sightings might include white-tailed deer, a bunny or two, squirrels and hardy birds. There are beautiful vistas of the Little Turtle River and Flowage to enjoy. The varied habitat, from open wetlands to aspen and pine plantations, offers an exhilarating and peaceful encounter with nature.

The local chamber office has detailed maps of the trail system, which can be accessed at two trailheads. Various memberships are available. For more information, visit skimecca.org.

Directions to the cabin trailhead: Look for trail signs on Hwy. 51 just south of Mercer, then to Beachway Drive to Mercer Lake Circle towards the sanitary district.

To get to the Little Turtle Trailhead, take Highway 51 to County FF (about one mile north of Mercer). Take FF west about one mile to Popko’s Circle East. Take Popko’s Circle East south almost two miles to Joe’s Shack Road.

Sno-Goers Winter Blast welcomes visitors

ERCER – There’s a “glad-you’re-here” party on Saturday, Jan. 16 hosted by the Sno-Goers Snowmobile Club. Known as “Winter Blast,” the event starts at 10am and runs ’til midnight at the Sno-Goers’ grooming barn, downtown Mercer.

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Fisher Lake Inn Cabin Rentals • Full Service Bar

Actually, we could say it technically starts Dec. 26 because that’s the first day of their poker run held in conjunction with Winter Blast. But you’ll have to wait until Jan. 16 for the food, refreshments and live music that brings lots of riders to the event.

Watch for signs on the railroad grade, also called Corridor 17.

1149 W Fisher Lake Rd | Mercer, WI 54547 There’s a vintage sled show from CraigsFisherLakeInn.com

the emerging sport offered back in the ’60s and ’70s.

Food and refreshments will be served throughout the day; the live music begins at 7pm and continues until midnight. There is no cover charge, but you may want to bring extra cash for the raffles.

The poker run sheets are $10 each and are available at local businesses. Prizes are 70 percent of entry fees, which go to the overall top four poker hands. The winning hands are drawn that night.

For more information, contact Wayne Riebe at 715-476-7878.

All proceeds benefit the snowmobile club, which, along with the White Thunder Riders and the Iron County Forestry Department, does a great job grooming and maintaining the 300 miles of trails.

You can mosey through the Penokee Range, wind up on the railroad grade or enjoy your view through the forest.

For more information, including becoming a member, go to mercersnogoers.com or call 715-476-2106.

10am to 2pm so you can see what

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Lincoln COUNTY Sled dog races to highlight Winterfest MERRILL – Sled dogs are undoubtedly the happiest athletes on the planet as their excited barks attest to as they sense the start of their races. They will get a chance to let loose during Merrill’s Winterfest Weekend on Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 23 & 24 at Pine River School for Young Learners, W4165 Hwy. 64, Merrill.

The Wisconsin Trailblazers Sled Dog Club will host a variety of International Sled Dog Racing Association-sanctioned races that weekend. More than 100 mushers are expected to compete with cash purse and trophies for the top six places. There will be 3-dog junior, 4-, 6-, and 10-dog, 1- and 2-dog skijoring races, as well as kiddie and celebrity races.

Races begin at 10am Saturday and 9am Sunday. Spectator admission is free. You are asked, however, to leave your personal dog at home as it can be a distraction to the sled dogs.

Other events: Winterfest runs Friday through Sunday with most events on Saturday. Events include co-ed volleyball tournament,

Calendar

Jan. 1 Tomahawk -- Polar Plunge: Registration 11:30am, plunge 1:30pm, Happy Snapper. 715-453-8686.

Jan. 16 Tomahawk – Family Ice Fishing Contest: 6am to 6pm. Afterwards, enjoy food, raffles and refreshments at Road Lake Pub and Grill. 715612-0926.

Jan. 23 & 24 Merrill – Winterfest Weekend: Sled dog races (10am Saturday, 9am

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Sunday), volleyball tournament, ice-skating, cardboard sled races, ice drags at Council Grounds State Park. Merrillchamber.org.

Feb. 6 Tomahawk – Treehaven Tromp: 10am, Treehaven. 10K and 5K races. 715-4534106 or uwsp.edu/treehaven.

Feb. 13 & 14 To m a h a w k – Wolf Ecology Program: Treehaven. Lodging available.

715-453-4106 or uwsp.edu/ treehaven.

ice sculpturing contest, open ice-skating at the Smith Center, cardboard sled races, kids coloring contest, and ice drags hosted by the Merrill Ice Drags at the Council Grounds State Park.

The sled dog races and other outside events are dependent on acceptable weather conditions. Bitter cold may cause a cancellation or delay, so go to witrailblazers.org or the chamber’s site, merrillchamber.org.

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Merri Ll /To mahawk

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At Treehaven: howl like a wolf; ’shoe like a Northwoods harried hare

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To mahawk

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OMAHAWK – Tucked away in the Northwoods, midway between Tomahawk and Rhinelander, is Treehaven, the outdoor education center for UW-Stevens Point College of Natural Resources. It rests on a glacial ridge overlooking 1,400 acres of forest and wetlands.

The center offers numerous public programs with a decided nature theme throughout the year. The programs are a respite from city life for those seeking a rustic “sense of place.”

Wolf Ecology Program Among their more popular programs is the wolf ecology workshop, which in 2016 will be Saturday, Feb. 13 and Sunday, Feb. 14. Participants will learn with other wolf enthusiasts while tracking, studying in the classroom and field, and from professionals and members of the Timber Wolf Information Network in Treehaven’s Northwoods setting.

Meals and lodging are offered with your registration fee or you can opt for the “commuter package,” which includes lunches and dinner. Register on-line at uwsp.edu/treehaven or call Treehaven at 715-453-4106 for more information.

Treehaven Snowshoe Races Ready for a challenge racing fellow snowshoe hares? Sign up for the annual Treehaven Tromp, the 5K and 10K snowshoe races set for Saturday, Feb. 6 on Treehaven’s challenging mix of single and open-track trails through beautiful Northwoods terrain.

The Braveheart series 10K snowshoe race is a United States Snowshoe Association (USSSA) regional qualifier. The 10K ’shoers will take off at 10am. The 5K racers follow up 15 minutes later. Last year’s turnout was about 150 racers, so you’ll have plenty of company.

Advance registration is recommended. The $35 entry fee gets you the race registration, all-you-can-eat chili luncheon, refreshments and a high performance wicking T-shirt (latter guaranteed with Jan. 15 early registration deadline). Lodging is available Friday night if desired. There will be door prizes and snowshoe raffles.

Register at uwsp.edu/treehaven (follow the Tromp link).

Awards will be presented to the top three male and female in both races as well as medals for each age group leader

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Marathon COUNTY Calendar

Jan. 9 Wausau – Snekkevik Ski Races: 9:30am race start. Nine Mile Co. Forest Recreation Area. 24K & 12K adult; 6K high school, 3.5K middle school. 715-261-1550 or co.marathon.wi.us.

Jan. 23 & 24 Wausau – Wausau 525 Snowmobile Championship Race: Racing from 11am, to 4:30pm each day. Various classes; food and refreshments in heated building. Wausau525.com.

Jan. 30 Wausau – Winterfest: Full day (10am to 3pm) of activities for families, including horse-drawn wagon rides, ice carvings, cookie decorating, curling, Mac-n-Cheese contest, Spudmobile appearance, hot chocolate, snow slide, ice skating, and just for adults in the evening, Winter Brew Fest at the Elk’s

Nine Mile Forest boasts 30 km of XC trails

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AUSAU –Nine Mile County Forest Recreation Area (commonly known as Nine Mile) is the crown jewel of the Marathon County forest system. Shining bright is its cross-country ski trail system.

The multi-use forest offers nearly 30 km of scenic cross-country ski trails, which are double tracked with an eight-foot skating lane. Nine Mile will host the Snekkevik Ski Race on Jan. 9, 2016.

The recreation area is located halfway between Wausau and Mosinee, just five miles off I-39.

Named after the Nine-Mile Swamp, the forest encompasses 4,900 acres of mixed uplands, marshes and water impoundments.

The ski trails (mostly one way) traverse a variety of terrain with loops suitable for all skiing abilities from the novice to expert skier. All trail intersections have “You Are Here” maps and directional signs. Three popular trail loops are marked with colored signs: the Yellow 6 km loop, the Blue 10 km loop, and the Red 20 km loop. About 6.3 km of trails are lighted from dusk to 9 p.m. during the ski season. There are 7.5 km of groomed snowshoe trails marked with brown-and-white signs. Just off the chalet is a half-mile snowshoe loop for kids.

The ski chalet has a changing area, restrooms and a spacious warming area with a wood stove. Coffee shop with concessions is available. A variety of daily, weekend and season passes are available. You can rent skis, boots, poles, and snowshoes at the chalet. Trails open in December and close at the end of March. A snowmobile trail skirts the complex, but crosses only three ski trails in the far southwest corner.

For more information call 715-261-1550 or visit co.marathon. wi.us under the park department info site. From Wausau take I-39/ US 51 south to CTH N, west on CTH N 3.5 miles to Red Bud Road, south on Red Bud Road 1.5 miles to the chalet parking lot.

Snekkevik Ski Race The Snekkevik Ski Race is the oldest continuing organized ski race in the state. Events Jan. 9 include adults 24K & 12K skate, & 12K classic, 6K high school classic, 3.5K middle school classic.

Registration starts at 8am, and races start at 9:30am.

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Oneida COUNTY Calendar

Race animals roam Winter Park

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INOCQUA – Bears, wolves, moose …. What’s going on at Winter Park & Nordic Center in Minocqua? Well, it’s winter and time to break out the bear paw style snowshoes and the skinny skis because this Midwest champion of outdoor fun has announced dates for its annual Moose Tracks Snowshoe Race and Wolf Tracks Rendezvous XC Ski Races.

Moose Tracks Some serious shoers will be competing at the third annual Moose Tracks Snowshoe Race on Sunday, Jan. 3. But those who like to kick back will also have fun. The race is part of the regional Braveheart Snowshoe Racing Series and offers 5 km and 10 km courses.

Dec. 12 Minocqua – Cookie Walk: 9:30am until gone, Church of the Pines. 715-356-3041.

Dec. 13 Minocqua – Skijor & Ski Shop Demo Day: Minocqua Winter Park. 715-356-3309.

Dec. 15 Minocqua – Christmas Tea: 2pm, Church of the Pines. 715-356-3041.

Dec. 31 Minocqua – Brat Feed: Minocqua 70 West Park Complex. Sponsored by Forest Riders Snowmobile Club.

Dec. 31 Woodruff – Red Hot New Year’s Eve Celebration: 3:30-7:30pm, Woodruff Community Center. Horse-drawn wagon rides, ice-skating, sledding, food beginning at 5pm, crafts, party favors and fireworks at 7pm.

Jan. 2 Minocqua – Chill Out

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Polar Bear Plunge: 11am registration; 1pm plunges. Nrgnorthwoods.com.

Jan. 2 Three Lakes – Northwoods Original Polar Bear Plunge: 1pm start of plunge; Bonnie’s Lakeside is the headquarters. 715-479-4451.

Jan. 3 Minocqua – Moose Tracks Snowshoe Race: 11am, Minocqua Winter Park. 5K and 10K divisions. Braveheart series race. Minocquawinterpark.org.

Jan. 17 Minocqua – Forest Riders Spaghetti Dinner: Noon to 6pm, Mama’s Supper Club.

Jan. 30 Minocqua – Wolf Tracks Rendezvous Ski Marathon & Half: 9am start for 42 km, 9:30am start for 24 km race, Minocqua Winter Park. Minocquawinterpark.org.

The snowshoe race starts at 11am with a mass start and participants will make one or two laps on a 5 km loop. Choose your own style of snowshoes, but in the Open Class it has to be no smaller than the minimum requirements of U.S. Snowshoe Association. There are different classes – even a kilter’s class – for men, women and youth.

Wolf Tracks The Wolf Tracks Rendezvous (WTR) marathon and half marathon races will take place Saturday, Jan. 30 at Winter Park. Choose from two racecourse distances with options and awards for both classic and freestyle techniques. Each event will provide full aid support and feature the superbly groomed trails of Winter Park.

The 24 km WTR half marathon with a 10am start covers some of the best beginner and intermediate trails while the 42 km WTR marathon course is a single loop that incorporates all of Winter Park’s best and most challenging trails.

The 42 km marathon with a 9am start is a qualifier for the American Birkebeiner, and the 24 km half-marathon is a qualifier for the Kortelopet; both races are chip-timed with seeded wave starts and awards for top overall and division finishers.

Visit minocquawinterpark.org for additional details on these two events.

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Polar bears – grin and bear it THREE LAKES – You can witness the indomitable human spirit on Saturday, Jan. 2 when more than one hundred brave souls are expected to gather on the frosty shores of Spirit Lake for the 16th annual Northwoods Original Polar Bear Plunge to benefit the Angel On My Shoulder Foundation.

Bonnie’s Lakeside on Hwy. 32 in Three Lakes is the staging point for the plungers. Last year, they had 101 people raising pledges and taking the plunge. The 2016 plunge gets underway at 1pm.

Most plungers dress in swim trunks, one-piece and bikinis; others go the full yard as they compete for the best costume award.

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17 It’s a party atmosphere as they line up in the large hole cut in the lake ice, courtesy of the local firefighters.

There’s a bunch of shivering and dancing around to stay warm. After the announcement by the emcee, it’s time to make the big plunge.

The vast majority of the plungers make quick work of their time in the water; however, there are always two or three who like to put on a show for the large crowd. The daring swimmers might attempt a headstand or tread water beyond all reason!

They will have a heated tent serving food and beverages and a large raffle, as well as a 50/50 raffle. Hot tubs are most welcomed by the plungers.

If interested in making a pledge and plunging (although you don’t have to do the dip), pledge sheets are available at the WRJO website and at Bonnie’s Lakeside. Plunge tees and towels given to plungers. For more information, call 715-479-4451.

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mi no cq ua

18 Coming Spring 2016!

The Business Directory of Northern Wisconsin ATTRACTIONS

You can find everything from where to eat, stay, shop and play... to home improvement services, and everything in between!

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Feature Articles

Throughout the magazine there will be several feature articles. These features will focus on the quaint, off the beaten path places to visit, stay, see, eat, etc.

Distribution: Up North Traveler is placed in our key locations throughout the Northwoods: HWY 51, MILWAUKEE, CHICAGO & MINNEAPOLIS 409 South Park Drive • Tomahawk, WI 54487 1-800-353-4511 • Fax: 715-453-7313 info@5StarUpNorth.com • 5StarUpNorth.com

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mi no cq ua/wo o d ruff

photo by Dean S Acheson

Ring in the New Year with Chili Feed & Fireworks WOODRUFF – Lots of folks enjoy ringing in the New Year at the annual “Red Hot Fun” New Year’s Eve Celebration in Woodruff. Join them this year on Thursday, Dec. 31 at the Woodruff Community Center. The indoor and outdoor activities will be enjoyed by all family members.

Hours are 3:30-7:30pm. Admission is free. Activities include horse-drawn wagon rides from 3:30-6:30pm, ice-skating, sledding and a bonfire. Inside the Community Center beginning at 5pm will be hot chili, hot dogs, hot chocolate and hot cider. Proceeds will benefit the Woodruff Beautification Fund. Kids crafts and party favors for everybody.

The Town of Woodruff and the Minocqua Area Chamber of Commerce sponsor the spectacular fireworks show, which will begin at 7pm. Plan to arrive at least 15-20 minutes early to find parking if coming just for the fireworks show.

The snowmobile trail runs just past the Woodruff Community Center so that’s one option to get there. There’s plenty of parking at the Community Center, along downtown streets, and at the nearby post office.

The community center is located at 1418 US. Hwy. 47, one half-mile east of U.S. Hwy. 51.

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photo by Dean S Acheson

‘Chill Out’ at the polar bear plunge

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INOCQUA – Are you brave enough to wear blue?

Come on down to The Thirsty Whale in downtown Minocqua on Saturday, Jan. 2 for the ninth annual “Chill Out’ polar bear plunge.

The water temp is just above freezing, but your entry is swift, the swim short and the cheers of the crowd that accompany your effort are downright heart-warming. Most of the plungers are diehard veterans, but each year new “polar bears” are christened.

Registration begins at 11am with the plungers extraordinaire stepping or leaping off the carpeted entry at 1pm. All pledge money raised by the polar bears goes to the Children’s Miracle Network.

Pledge forms are available on-line at nrgnorthwoods.com or they can be picked up at Woodruff Ace Hardware in Woodruff. A $35 minimum pledge is required to take the plunge. But feel free to cheer on the brave souls and make a donation even if you’re not jumping.

Ice Cold Beer Festival on tap

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INOCQUA – More than 40 Wisconsin micro breweries and their brewmasters will showcase their flagship beers along with those that warm the soul at the 18th annual Ice Cold Beer Festival in Minocqua. The festival is set for Saturday, Jan. 30 from 4-8pm.

Visitors can sample more than 200 different beers inside the “Big Top”-style heated tent. Advance tickets are available at a discount. Call 715-356-2600 for more information. Proceeds will benefit local hospice services.

Live music will be provided by one of Milwaukee’s best up-andcoming country/folk bands, “The Driveway Thriftdwellers.” Festival admission includes an all-you-can-eat buffet.

Visitors can also take part in the Wisconsin Brewers Guild’s Midwest Technical Conference. Learn about the hottest topics in craft beer, Wisconsin Brewpub topics along with the latest in hops, malts, yeast and everything beer. All courses will be held the morning of the beer festival, at Rueland’s Catering Center in Minocqua and also at the Campanile Center for the Arts in downtown Minocqua.

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MINOCQUA – Cold weather has closed the door on the growing season in the Northwoods, but another door to purchase locally grown veggies, fruit and other good things has opened in Minocqua.

The Minocqua Farmers Market has moved indoors to Richardson’s Well Drilling, 10632 Hwy 70 W, just a half mile west of the summer location at Minocqua West Park. The winter version of the farmers market will be open every Friday throughout the winter and spring until May 20, 2016. Hours are from 11am to 3pm.

This producers-only farmers market features produce and agricultural products from the surrounding area. All items will be homegrown, handmade, or vendor-created from locally owned operations within the region. You can expect to see pork, eggs, lettuce, cheese, grass-fed beef, homegrown chickens, handmade soaps, bakery, honey, maple syrup, mushrooms, specialty greens and more.

For more information and regular updates visit Minocqua Winter Farmers Market on Facebook or contact Ann Ertl at 715-6145290.

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Farmers market – the winter version -- opens

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R hi ne land er

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Hodagers – get your advance tickets

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HINELANDER – The line-up of signed nationally known performers continues to grow for the 2016 Hodag Country Festival, which will be July 7-10 at Rhinelander. Among the latest to sign is the singer/songwriter simply known as Cam, who presented at the CMA awards in November.

Just in time for Christmas giving (including yourself!) tickets are available for the 39th annual festival. Check the website, hodag. com, for all the details. Also, fans who want to reserve the same sites from 2015 have a Friday, Jan. 8 deadline to do so. Starting Monday, Feb. 1 all remaining sites will be sold on a first come first served basis.

The following performers will be on the main stage: July 7, Mickey Gilley, Maddie & Tae, Marty’s Party; July 8, Thomas Rhett, Lauren Alaina, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band; July 9, Jake Owen, Montgomery Gentry, Dallas Smith; and July 10, Neal McCoy, Chris Janson, Cam. Others will be announced as they are signed.

Happy Hodag!

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Polk COUNTY Calendar

Dec. 19 Frederic – Christmas in Frederic:

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Feb. 5- 7 Balsam Lake -- Winterfest: Ice drag races Friday; most events on Saturday including snowshoe race, kids games, pond hockey, live music; ice fishing contest on Sunday.

Chill out at the Balsam Lake Winterfest BALSAM LAKE – For a memorable experience consider participating in the Balsam Lake Fire Department’s Fire & Ice Plunge -- part of the fun awaiting you and your family at the annual Balsam Lake Winterfest Friday through Sunday, Feb. 5- 7.

Events kick off with the start of the ninth annual pub crawl and 4x4 truck/SUV ice drag races on Friday, followed by a full day and evening of activities Saturday and wrapping up with 28th annual ice fishing contest on Balsam Lake and quad races on Sunday.

In addition to the polar bear plunge on Saturday morning, there will be a 5 km snowshoe race at Pine Park, kickball and bean bag tournaments, turkey toss on the ice, minnow races, kids games,

ice bowling, helicopter rides, archery target, pond hockey under the lights at Paradise Landing, medallion hunt, live music, and much more.

The ice fishing contest Sunday will be headquartered at the town beach landing. Fishing hours are 8am to 3pm with cash and other prizes for first through third place winners in various classes. The drawing for the big raffle will also take place.

Of course, the sponsors of Winterfest don’t want you to go hungry. There will be lots of food and drink choices at local establishments throughout the weekend, as well as the chili feed on the ice and at the American Legion on Saturday. Be sure to purchase a Winterfest button for a chance to win a handful of cash!

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Western U.P. MICHIGAN

BIG snow Western Upper Peninsula tops in winter sports

WESTERN UP – The Western U.P. of Michigan is “Big Snow Country.”

As “Michigan’s Trailhead, there are plenty of ski resorts in the area to keep even the most enthusiastic and adventurous skier busy! Whether your interests are in downhill or cross-country they offer a multitude of options.

In the winter, glide down over 125 trails at their ski resorts.

Ride thousands of miles of groomed snowmobile trails.

Adventure out into the wilderness on cross-country skis or snowshoes. The Western U.P. averages 17 feet of snowfall each season, living up to its “Big Snow Country” reputation.

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country You can visit all these downhill ski areas in one incredible ski vacation: – Big Powderhorn Mountain -- Blackjack Ski Resort – Whitecap Mountains.

Big Powderhorn Mountain - Vertical 600 ft / 33 Runs Combine 17 feet of average natural snowfall with incredible views of Upper Peninsula forests. Add a dash of renowned grooming, family friendly specials, and a down-home staff who treats you like family. Throw in a charming Bavarian style village with a complimentary shuttle and you have the makings for an unforgettable winter getaway!

Blackjack Ski Resort - Vertical 465 ft / 26 Runs Their commitment to “excellence” begins with excellent service.

Their trail grooming, snowmaking and day chalet upgrades offer you the best value in family skiing fun.

Whitecap Mountains -- Vertical 400 ft / 43 Runs Gather your friends, family and colleagues for an unforgettable vacation, conference, seminar, wedding or family get-together this winter on the slopes of Whitecap’s three glorious mountains of skiing with 43 runs.

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Ontonagon to host UP Championship Snow Drags ONTONAGON – The Ontonagon County Economic Partnership (OCEP) UP Championships Snow Drags will return to Ontonagon on Saturday, Jan. 9.

The race is the opener for the Ojibwa Casino/ Mid America Snow and Terrain Expert Racers (MASTERS) 2016 series.

All classes in Pro Mod and Race Stock hand out cash to the top three finishers. Race Stock and Vintage competitors race for trophies.

Competition will begin after the drivers meeting at 9:45am. At noon, the youngest 120 cc class racers will run. The day will conclude with the Top Gun feature.

The OCEP UP Championship Snow Drags will have top riders from Michigan and Wisconsin competing on both stock and modified snowmobiles. The drivers race side-by-side on three North Country Snowmobile Club groomed snow pack lanes. The sleds hit speeds over 100 mph in just 500 feet.

“While a lot of attention will be on the Pro Mod classes, the class that really draws an interest from the fans is the 120 cc class and the Junior Division,” observed MASTERS president Skip Schulz.

The 120 cc class has children between 4 and 9 racing, and the two Junior classes have children between 10 and 17 racing.

Among the bigger sleds that have wowed crowds in the past has been “Sling Shot,” the 600-horseower turbo-charged 4-stroke snowmobile of Jeff Moleski.

The second leg of the snow drag series heads to Sagola as part of the Sagola Township Sportsman Club Tip-Up Town of the U.P. on Saturday, Feb. 6. The sanctioned snow drags will be on Eddy Lake, next to the Sagola Sportsman Club.

The circuit’s first snowmobile hillclimb race will be the Mid America Championship Hillclimb (MACH) on Feb. 20 in Caspian, Mich. The first hillcross race will be the Wisconsin State Championship Hillclimb at Keyes Peak in Florence, Wis. on Feb. 27 & 28.

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Hundreds to compete at SISU Ski Fest IRONWOOD – Hundreds of cross-country skiers and snowshoers are expected to take part in the seventh annual SISU Ski Fest on Saturday, Jan. 9 and Sunday, Jan. 10 at Ironwood.

Races on Saturday include the 42K SISU Marathon at 8:30am and the 21K Heikki Lunta Half Marathon race at 11am, both on ABR Trails. Both races feature classic and freestyle skiing and are Birkie qualifiers. The Junior SISU (ages 9-18) at 1:30pm Saturday will be held on the Miners Memorial Heritage Park Trails.

In addition, there will be the 5K “Taste ‘N Tour” with food stops along the route that showcase local cuisine. Participation is capped at 200 individuals. The tentative start time is 2pm Saturday.

Sunday’s snowshoe races with 2K, 5K and 10K options, held on the Miners Memorial Heritage Park Trails, will have a 10:30am start at the school bus garage. The on-snow demo will be from 9am to 1pm, Sunday on the Wolverine Ski Trails.

The Ski Expo will be held at the Ironwood Memorial Building from 4-10pm Friday and from 8:30am to 4pm Saturday. Entertainment will be at the Ironwood Theatre from 7-9:30pm Saturday.

Shuttle bus service is available and highly recommended for racers. To register and for more race information, go to sisuskifest. com.

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Pro racers return to Ironwood Snowmobile Olympus IRONWOOD – Sometimes it’s nice when the race venue itself wins an award . . . or two. Named the 2015 TLR Cup Race of the Year in 2015, the Ironwood Snowmobile Olympus (ISO) returns Jan. 2 & 3, 2016 to the historic racing venue – “Where Legends Race” – located at the Gogebic County Fairgrounds.

Among the large field of racers will be top professionals from the U.S. and Canada. The oval may be solid ice, but these racers will blister the straight-aways at more than 100 mph.

site, space permitting. There is trackside parking available for a fee (does not include admission ticket).

The facility has heated concession area with hot food, a full bar heated restrooms and vendors including AMSOIL, FXR and others. For more information call 906-364-1845 or visit IronwoodSnowmobileOlympus.com. Fairgrounds located just east of the Wisconsin/Michigan border.

The ISO is a USSA Pro Star Racing Series stop (it was named USSA Race of the Year in 2014) as well as hosting competition for the Tommy Lipar Racing Cup. The TLR Tour will pay out over $115,000 in season long point money in nine separate races featuring late model, vintage and Outlaw 600.

Racing on the historic half mile track starts at 9am both days with over 55 races scheduled for non-stop racing action. This past summer they created wider, more sweeping turns on the track.

Times will undoubtedly improve. January 1 is “test-n-tune” day for these bigger sleds.

Parents and young fans will enjoy Wisconsin Kids Snowmobile Racing Association action with tomorrow’s stars racing both days.

Daily admission fee is $10, but buy a two-day ticket and the track will throw in $5 in food and beverage coupons. Children 12 and under will be admitted free. General spectator parking is free on-

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Price COUNTY Calendar

Dec. 18 Phillips – Football Chili Feed: High school. Chili, dessert, beverages and prizes.

Jan. 1 Phillips – New Year’s Hangover Party: 1-5pm, Club 13 Restaurant & Lounge. Various raffles. Benefits snowmobile trail system in Lugerville.

Jan. 1 Phillips – Polar Bear Plunge: 1pm plunge start, Harbor View Pub & Eatery is headquarters. Raffles, door prizes and more. Benefits Big Brothers/Big Sisters.

Jan. 2 Phillips -- Winter Picnic: 10am to 4pm, Solberg Lake County Park. Sponsored

by Northwoods Hi-Riders Snowmobile Club. Brats, hamburgers, refreshments.

Jan. 23 Phillips – Phillips Flurry Snowshoe Run/Walk: School forest. 10:30am race start. 5K and 10K divisions.

Phillipsflurry.com or call 715339-6254.

Jan. 23 Phillips – Phillips WinterFest: Downtown Phillips and Phillips Chain of Lakes. Snowmobile races at Birch Island Resort, snowmobile parade at 6pm from Birch Island Resort, fireworks over Lake DuRoy, raffle, ice fishing contest. 715-339-4100. pacc@ pctcnet.net.

Jan. 24 Phillips – Chaparrals Breakfast: 8-11am, Club 13.

Jan. 30 Phillips – Radar Speed Run: 10am, Solberg Lake.

1,000-foot tracks. Northwoods Hi-Riders, 715-897-2223.

Phillips to host snowshoe run/walk PHILLIPS – The snowshoes will be flying at the sixth annual Phillips Flurry Snowshoe Run/Walk on Saturday, Jan. 23. The event is a qualifying event for the USSA Snowshoe Nationals.

Both the 5 km and 10 km courses consist of groomed ski trails and packed single track and feature rolling terrain and a few large hills that traverse over the beautiful school forest.

On-site registration is from 8:30-10am with the start at 10:30am at the school forest. There are individual and team divisions. Registration includes a warm post-race meal, long-sleeved T-shirt, and entry for door prize drawings. Pre-register to save $5 and be guaranteed your T-shirt size. Snowshoe rental is available; call to reserve.

Custom trophies will be awarded to the top overall male and female finishers and medals to the top three males and females for both races in each age group. Children ages 9 and under will receive a special participation medal and post-race meal.

The school forest is located at N9199 N. Worcester Rd., Phillips.

From Hwy. 13, go east on County Hwy. H 3.5 miles; turn south (right) on Big Elk Road for 1/2 mile; when the road splits, stay right on Worcester Road and follow the signs to the entrance. Call 715-339-6254 or visit Phillipsflurry.com for more information.

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What a way to start the New Year!

PHILLIPS – Celebrate the New Year with a luncheon and paddle wheel games at the Lugerville Chasers Snowmobile Club’s annual New Year’s Hangover Party, from 1-5pm, Friday, Jan. 1 at Club 13 Restaurant & Lounge, Phillips.

There will be gun, quilt and cash raffles with the drawings taking place at 4:30pm. All event proceeds will help maintain the trail system in Lugerville, including Trails 80, 87, 88, 90, 121 and 141.

Polar bear plunge Over at the Harbor View Pub & Eatery in Phillips, you can become at polar bear on Friday, Jan. 1 by jumping into the very cold water of Long Lake after getting pledges for Big Brothers/Big Sisters.

This great group is making a real difference in the lives of area youth.

Registration for the plunge begins at 10am. Get a free shirt with minimum $35 pledge and pre-registration. The polar bears begin their march at 1pm. They will then warm up by the big bonfire on the beach.

The pre-plunge party includes raffles, door prizes and more. For the polar bears, there will be prizes for most pledge money raised, best costume, group with most participants, and for the group raising the pledge money.

Winter picnic Join the Northwoods Hi-Riders Snowmobile Club members on Saturday, Jan. 2 for a winter picnic and some sledder camaraderie at the Solberg Lake County Park pavilion, Phillips. Hours are 10am to 4pm. This is a snowmobile club fundraiser and everyone is welcome to attend. All proceeds will go towards trail maintenance and club expenses.Club members will be cooking up brats, hamburgers and hot dogs. Beverages include coffee and hot chocolate to warm you up or have a cold one. You can sit around the bonfire or warm up in the heated pavilion.

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Sawyer COUNTY Calendar Runamuk Rides will help you have fun on the trails

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AYWARD & CABLE – With two locations to serve you, an extensive inventory of snowmobiles, ATVs & UTVs, along with years of staff trail riding experience, Runamuk Rides is poised to make your winter escape to the Northwoods a memorable one this season.

The pontoon boats, personal water crafts and the like are in storage, but the snowmobiles, ATVs and UTVs are ready for hours of fun on the trails. Runamuk’s skilled technicians ensure all the rentals are in top condition for worry-free trail experiences. They offer 2, 4, 8 and 23 hour snowmobile rentals and weekend rentals. All rentals include helmets. (Speaking of those master-certified technicians, they can repair, maintain or customize any brand model or type of ATV, UTV, snowmobile and trailer.)

Dec. 19 Hayward & Cable areas -- Christmas Bird Count: Winter bird census in Hayward and Cable areas, dawn to dusk. 715-798-3890 if you wish to assist. Cablemuseum. org.

Dec. 26 Hayward – Snowman Building Contest: Shues Pond.

Jan. 3 Hayward – Shues Pond Light Show: Jan. 9 Hayward – Tipper Tourney: Headquarters at Pat’s Landing, ice fishing contest on the Chippewa Flowage. 715-945-2511.

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Jan. 16 Upper Clam Lake – Ice Fishing Contest: 8am to 3pm, Upper Clam Lake. Food, beverages, raffle for ATV. Elkcountryatvclub.com.

Jan. 23 Hayward -- Ice Fishing Contest: Four Seasons Resort.

Jan. 26 Hayward – Vintage Snowmobile Ride: 10am, location TBA. Sponsored by NW Relic Riders. Relicriders. com.

Jan. 31 Hayward – Women’s Ice Fishing Fundraiser for Kids with Cancer: Deer Run Resort. 715-462-3276.

The friendly staff will take the time to go over your planned route, review the safety and operating aspects of each machine, and answer any questions you may have. They are located on trails 8, 63 and 31 and very close to trails 77 and 15.

In addition to their summer tours, Runamuk Rides also offers guided winter outings, whether for a few hours or a full day of riding.

The area’s snowmobile trails are well groomed, well marked and go by great dining spots and lodging facilities. You may be tempted to park your car or truck and travel by snowmobile or ATV/UTV during your stay! There are more than 1,000 miles of trails to access, leading from Sawyer and Bayfield counties to all compass points.

The scenery is just as beautiful in the winter as in the summer; indeed, once leaves are off the trees you can see further into the forest. There are vistas to shoot with your camera; valleys and hills to conquer; and wildlife sightings ranging from white-tailed deer and porkies, to even wolves and coyotes on occasion.

Runamuk’s Hayward store at 13679W Thannum Fire Lane, eight miles north of Hayward on U.S. 63, is open 9am to 7pm, 7 days a week. The telephone number is 715-634-0656. Their other store is located at 43555 U.S. Highway 63, Cable, in the Lakeside Sports complex, open 8am to 6pm M-F, 9am-noon Saturday and closed Sunday. The telephone number is 715-798-3030.

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Ice fishing contest set on Clam Lake CLAM LAKE -- The Elk Country ATV Club’s eighth annual ice fishing contest and fundraiser on Upper Clam Lake in Clam Lake will be Saturday, Jan. 16. Fishing hours are 8am to 3pm.

There is also a division for kids.

Food and beverages will be available on the lake. A 2014 Honda TRX 420 Rancher will be raffled off. Tickets are $10; only 1,000 will be sold. Numerous raffle prizes will be drawn after 3pm. For more information, visit elkcountryatvclub.com.

Ice race series to make stop at Nelson Lake NELSON LAKE – The Midwest Ice Racing Association announces its 2016 schedule includes a race Saturday, Jan. 30 on Nelson Lake, near Hayward. Headquarters will be Nelson Lake Landing, 13045 N. Dam Road.

Gates open at 7am with practice from 8-10:30am, riders meeting at 10:45am and racing getting underway at 11am. The event features GP styled racing on a fast one-mile rack.

The bike and quads (ATVs) race in three classes: A – Pro; B – Semi Pro; and C – Novice. There are classes for youth and women also. Top riders earn points toward season championships as well as competing for trophies, plaques and gift certificates in individual races.

Their full schedule is as follows: Jan. 2, Superior; Jan. 9, Solon Springs; Jan. 23, McGregor, MN; Jan. 30, Hayward; Feb. 13, Pine City, MN; and Feb. 27, Superior. Check out their website, midwesticeracing.com, for the latest details.

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Pre-Birkie – ‘Best Birkie prep race in the Midwest’

H

AYWARD – The Hayward Lions will present their 34th annual Lion’s Pre-Birkie on Saturday, Feb. 6. The PreBirkie has become a large marathon event on the American Birkebeiner trails. The start is in Hayward, skiing along the Birkie trail, with the finish at Hwy. “00”.

The classic 26 & 42 km races will start at 9:30am; the skate 26 & 42 km races will start at 10am, all from the city beach on Lake Hayward.

“Once you have completed the Pre-Birkie you will have the confidence to take on the mother of all XC marathon races, the American Birkebeiner,” according to the Hayward Lions website.

Registration links and other race information can be found at haywardlions.com.

There are four food stations on the 26 km course and six on the 42

km course, which are manned by local youth groups. There you’ll find refreshments and doughnuts.

Every skier will receive a special Pre-Birkie sweatshirt and all skiers who pre-register before Jan. 15 will get their sweatshirt at the spaghetti feed/late registration site or on race day late registration site at the VFW Hall.

This year they are holding a kid’s race, which is aptly named the “Leo Loppet” (Leos are young Lions). The 2 km and 4 km nontimed races for the youngsters will be held at the OO (Pre-Birkie finish area). Start time is 10am. The “Leo Loppet” racers will be rewarded at the finish with awards and goodies along with a special T-shirt for participating.

The “all-you can-eat spaghetti feed will be served until 8pm Friday at the VFW Hall. Proceeds will go to Lion’s missions.

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Shawano COUNTRY Calendar

Dec. 12 Wittenberg – Swim with Santa: 1-3pm, Aquatic Center. Free swimming, lunch, cookie decorating, ornament

decorating. 715-881-2111.

Dec. 26 Bonduel – Ice Fishing Derby: 7am to 4pm on Shawano Lake, Spark’s Sunset Grill.

Cash and prizes.

Winter fun in ‘Shawano Country’ SHAWANO – Visitors will find a wealth of winter recreation resources to enjoy as well as the scenic outdoors to explore when they arrive in Shawano Country – showcasing Shawano and Menominee counties.

Here are a couple of events to whet your appetite for winter fun: The Navirino Nature Center in Schicton is sponsoring a candlelight ski/snowshoe hike on Saturday, Jan. 15, from 5:30-7:30pm. Snowshoe or ski the one-mile loop across the boardwalk and back by the light of the stars, moon and candlelight. Bring your own ’shoes or rent them from the center. For more information, call 715-758-6999 or visit navarino.org.

The Elefson-Zueske American Legion Post 117 fishing derby will be held on Jan. 16. Headquartered at Sparky’s Sunset Bar & Grill, W5884 Cedar Ct., Shawano, south shore of Shawano Lake. Tickets at the Post Bar, Sunset Grill, Kuhn’s Bait & Tackle and from Legion Post members. Call 715-526-2098 if you need more information.

Snowmobiling paradise With over 400 miles of groomed and marked snowmobile trails that wind through majestic forests and scenic meadows, Shawano Country is a snowmobiler’s paradise.

Snowmobilers are welcome to discover Mountain Bay Trail, a former 83-mile railroad corridor between Green Bay and Wausau. The Shawano County portion is 51 miles in length between the villages of Pulaski and Eland. It is used for hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, snowmobiling and ATV use.

The WIOUWASH State Trail and the Mountain Bay Trail intersect in the Village of Eland. The Shawano County portion of the WIOUWASH State Trail is 23 miles between Split Rock and the Village of Aniwa.

Cross-country skiing Cross-country skiing (and sledding at the first two) can be found at these three recommended areas: Maple Hills Recreation Area -- Hwy. 22 two miles south of Shawano.

Navarino Wildlife Area -- 10 miles south of Shawano, Hwy. K to Swamp Rd. south, east on Townline Rd. to McDonald Rd. south, east on Lindsten Rd. 15,000-acre wildlife area includes 14 miles of trails groomed for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Acres for Recreation -- Located 4 miles north of Shawano, Hwy. H to Old Lake Ln. to Retreat Rd.

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Vilas COUNTY

Calendar

Dec. 11 Sayner – Santa Visits Sayner: Dec. 13 Manitowish Waters – Christmas for the Town: 11am to 1pm, Community Center. Free lunch, baked goodies, kids’ prize drawings and visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Dec. 18 Presque Isle – Children’s Christmas with Santa: Community Center. Sleigh rides, caroling, Advent Walk, children’s party, Santa visit. Presqueisle.com.

Dec. 19 Manitowish Waters – Christmas Bird Counts: 2-4pm, North Lakeland Discovery Center. Call ahead for details: 877-543-2085 or Discoverycenter.net.

Dec. 26-31 Manitowish Waters -- Marvel in Manitowish Waters: Various activities: story hour, crafts, wagon rides, live music, skating, fireworks, etc. 715-543-8488 or ManitowishWaters.org.

Dec. 29 Boulder Junction – Between the Holidays Celebration: 4-6:30pm, BJ Winter Park. Chili dump, bonfire, music, ice skating, XC skiing, fireworks. 715-358-2400.

Jan. 8-10 Eagle River – AMSOIL World Championship Snowmobile Derby Week: Derby Track. Vintage races.

Jan. 14-17 Eagle River – AMSOIL World Championship Snowmobile Derby Week: Racing daily. Derby Track. World championships.

Includes Friday Night Thunder; Saturday has heats, quarter and semi finals, Sunday has championship finals.

Jan. 23 Sayner – Jesse Roman Memorial Vintage Snowmobile Show & Ride: Sayner Pub. Vintage sled display, food, silent auction, raffles.

Jan. 29 & 30 St. Germain – St. Germain Snowmobile Radar Run: 11am to 8pm Friday, 10am to 4pm Saturday.

West bay of Little St. Germain Lake. Fun runs, speed runs, Snow Outlaw Top 10 shootout, both days; demo rides and bikini run on Saturday. Hot air balloon tethered rides, lift-off at 4pm Saturday.

Feb. 5-7 Eagle River – LaBatt Blue USA Adult Pond Hockey Championships: Held on Dollar Lake.

S

It’s full throttle at St. Germain Radar Runs

T. GERMAIN – Excitement is building for the 14th annual St. Germain Snowmobile Radar Run, hosted by the St. Germain Radar Racers, Friday and Saturday, Jan. 29 & 30 on Little St. Germain Lake, downtown St. Germain.

Hours are 11am to 8pm Friday and 10am to 4pm Saturday. Everything is located on the west bay of the lake The sponsors will have two tracks for sled heads to race against the gun: the 1,000-foot shaved ice track (“Fastest Ice Tack in Wisconsin”) and the 660-foot groomed snowpack track. There’s also a 1,000-foot practice track.

The venue now has four members of the 170 MPH Club: Mike Martin, OSP Racing, 173.26 (set at the 2015 event), Jack Hendricks, 173.1 mph; Frozen Assets, 170.36 mph and Aaron Fivak, 170.06 mph. The top speed driver will receive the “Snow King” trophy, which will then be placed on display at the International Snowmobile Hall of Fame in St. Germain.

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photo by Dean S. Acheson

Friday’s schedule of events includes fun runs, speed runs from 1-4pm, trail ride at 3pm, Snow Outlaw Top 10 shoot-out and ice drags from 5-8pm under the lights. Also scheduled is a hot air balloon show from 5-8pm. Hot air balloon rides (tethered) will be offered all day and evening.

Saturday continues the fun with fun runs, speed runs, Yamaha sled display, demo rides, vendor’s row, bikini run on the 660-foot snow track at 1pm, Snow Outlaw Top 10 racing finale at 2pm followed by the trophy presentation and prizes. Each bikini participant is raising money for charities and will try to clock the fastest speed on the 660-foot track.

There will be music on Saturday. Hot air balloon rides will be offered from noon to 4pm, with balloon lift off at 4pm.

Parking is available on the lake or park nearby and walk down.

Shuttle service will be provided. Enjoy food and beverages in the heated tent.

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Coming Spring 2016!

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To wn Nam e

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Feature Articles

Throughout the magazine there will be several feature articles. These features will focus on the quaint, off the beaten path places to visit, stay, see, eat, etc.

Distribution: Up North Traveler is placed in our key locations throughout the Northwoods: HWY 51, MILWAUKEE, CHICAGO & MINNEAPOLIS 409 South Park Drive • Tomahawk, WI 54487 1-800-353-4511 • Fax: 715-453-7313 info@5StarUpNorth.com • 5StarUpNorth.com

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To wn Nam e photo by Dean S. Acheson

World Championship Snowmobile Derby: It’s the ‘Biggest show on ice and snow’

E

AGLE RIVER – Two extended weekends of great snowmobile racing come together each January when the AMSOIL World Championship Snowmobile Derby Track brings the international spotlight on oval, sno-cross and vintage racing at Eagle River.

The 2016 Derby Week will first feature the Trig’s Smokehouse World Championship Vintage Snowmobile Derby on Jan. 8-10. Upwards of 1,000 entries are expected. For three days the classic machines of the ’60s and ’70s will put on a show from the golden days of racing. The Vintage World Championship will run Sunday, Jan. 10 at 3pm.

The AMSOIL World Championship Snowmobile Derby featuring the latest “Champ” sleds will run the following weekend, Jan. 14-17. This will be the 53rd running of the “Granddaddy” of oval snowmobile racing.

Practice, time trials and qualifying begin on Thursday. Classes include everything from kids, women, stock and modified racing . . . the exciting Outlaw class will get their chance on the famed oval track as well.

“Friday Night Thunder” is one of the fans’ favorite events with

the fireworks, TRL Cup, Sweet Sixteen qualifying and new this year the added Pro Snocross qualifying.

The racing on Saturday will be focused on the newly remodeled sno-cross track with the Sno-cross World Championship Race at 3pm. With a purse of $20,000, this high-flying Pro Sno-cross racing will be intense with pro drivers showing off their skills.

On Sunday the racing excitement begins all over again with all class finals being run to completion. At 3pm, the final field of 12 will have been established. The flag will fall and the 30-lap shoot out for the 53rd AMSOIL World Championship Snowmobile race will begin. In approximately 45 to 50 minutes of exciting oval racing, one proud snowmobile racer will be crowned the 53rd “World Champion.”

There will be an awards ceremony and autograph session immediately following the final race of the day in the Expo Hall.

The Derby venue includes the large indoor and outdoor vendor area with exceptional buys on all sorts of snowmobile items. The Loft provides sit-down food service with an overview of the Expo Hall activity. There are also hot seats available. For ticket information and more, go to derbytrack.com or call 715-479-4424.

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Enjoy all that Presque Isle has to offer

P

RESQUE ISLE – Nature lover and recreation enthusiasts have a lot to discover and enjoy in Presque Isle, a place called “Wisconsin’s Last Wilderness.” The quaint town lies within the Northwoods, more specifically in the forest and glacial lake country that comprises Vilas County.

More than 77 square miles of pine and hardwood forests, lakes and streams in the county draws thousands of visitors each year, but with that much land and water, it doesn’t feel crowded at all. The Last Wilderness is immediately adjacent to Michigan’s sprawling Ottawa National Forest and back in Wisconsin, within the 200,000 plus acres of the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest!

Truly a four-season recreation paradise, Presque Isle enjoys a long winter due to its proximity to Lake Superior’s “lake effect” snow.

Visitors can get a head start on snowmobiling adventures on hundreds of miles of miles marked and groomed trails that meander through beautiful forests and across pristine frozen lakes.

Located at the hub of a major snowmobile system, riders can spend a week and explore a different trail each day!

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That much snow means cross-country and snowshoers aren’t forgotten either. Discover a groomed trail or “bushwhack” your way across the landscape. Ice fishermen won’t run out of lakes to fish, even if they visit a new lake every day during their stay!

Coupled with hospitality second to none, great eats at restaurants and taverns, and cozy lodges, Presque Isle is the ideal destination for a day-trip, vacation, girls getaway or a romantic trip.

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Sayner to host Vintage Snowmobile Show & Ride SAYNER – Make a trip into the past at the fourth annual Jesse Roman Memorial Vintage Snowmobile Show & Ride set for Saturday, Jan. 23 at the Sayner Pub in Sayner – home of the first snowmobile.

The Sayner Pub is pit stop #36 on the Vilas County trail system.

Lunch will be available at the restaurant.

If you have a vintage sled, bring it to the show. Entry fee is $5 per sled, with a maximum of $20 no matter how many sleds you enter. Registration is from 9am to noon, judging at 12:30pm and awards ceremony at 2:30pm. A short ride will follow.

On tap will be a vintage snowmobile clothing contest, silent auction and tons of raffles, according to the organizers, Clark and Kelly Roman of Merrill. All proceeds will benefit the Vilas County Historical Museum, which their late son Jesse loved. He was a fan of vintage snowmobiles.

First and second place trophies will be awarded in the following classes: 69 and Earlier, 1970-73, 1974-76, and 1977-87. First place awards will be presented to the Best Mini, Best Cutter, Custom, and Best of Show. For more information about the show contact Kelly Roman at 715-536-9846

Snow much fun at Manitowish Waters

MANITOWISH WATERS – Winter in the Northwoods brings fun for kids of all ages – Manitowish Waters has plenty to offer them the week schools are closed between Christmas and New Year’s Day. The Manitowish Waters Chamber of Commerce promotes this collection of indoor and outdoor activities as “Marvel in Manitowish Waters.” The winter fun begins Saturday, Dec. 26 and continues through Thursday, Dec. 31.

Past activities have included story hour, chili cook-off, crafts, horse-drawn wagon rides through the Discovery Center grounds, live music, snowshoeing, dances, ice-skating, nature-based activities, and New Year’s Eve celebrations with fireworks.

Many of the events are free while others carry a small fee to offset expenses. For updates, visit manitowishwaters.org.

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There is mush ado about racing at Land O’ Lakes LAND O’ LAKES – A Northwoods tradition -- the Three Bear Sled Dog Races – will return to Land O’ Lakes the weekend of Feb. 6-7 as part of that community’s Winterfest line-up of fun things for families to see and do.

and handlers (but leave your own dog home).

Racing takes place in both Vilas County and the Upper Michigan. There is the popular Open Class as well as 6-dog, 4-dog, 3-dog, juniors and skijoring classes. All classes are International Sled Dog Racing Association sanctioned except for sport skijor/kicksled.

The professional In addition to great sled mushers and their dog racing, Saturday indogs will be headcludes mutt races, craft quartered at Mushshow and sale inside the ers Village located photo by Dean S Acheson elementary school, iceon the town hall skating, bonfire, tasty grounds, Hwy. B, food and family games. downtown Land There’s also a “Mushers O’ Lakes. The two days of premier racing features the best sled dog teams from Ball” that evening, starting at 8pm, at the Gateway Lodge. Live throughout the United States and Canada. Hours will be from music begins at 8pm with dancing. Casual attire.

9am to 4pm.

For more information, including updates, call 715-547-3541 or visit Spectators can wander the Musher Village and talk with owners

3bear.org or witrailblazers.org. The latter manages the races.

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Washburn

COUNTY

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Calendar

Dec. 12 Spooner – Cookie Walk: United Methodist Church.

Jan. 9 Spooner – Jack Frost Festival: 8am to 4pm. Minnow races, chili and ribs contest, snowmobile show and ride, pond hockey, snowshoe jaunt, ice-fishing contest, and more.

715-635-2168.

Don’t miss Spooner’s Jack Frost Festival SPOONER – It’s hard to find a winter festival offering as many family and fun activities as Spooner’s Jack Frost Festival, which is held each January.

The 2016 version will be Saturday, Jan. 9 with hours from 8am to 4pm. Most of the fun will be found on the flowage or at nearby Tony’s Riverside. The 2pm minnow races and the chili and ribs contests will be at Big Dick’s Buckhorn Inn. The wide range of other activities include an antique snowmobile show and ride, pond hockey tournament, family ice fishing contest, turkey bowling, toilet paper toss, bonfire and marshmallow

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roasting, open skating, snowshoe jaunt, and other great family events.

Hours of the ice-fishing contest are from 8am to noon with registration beginning at 7:30am on the ice. Sign up for the ice pond hockey tournament by calling 715-635-2168.

There is a $5 entry fee for all the antique and classic snowmobiles you wish to bring. Registration starts at 10am, trophies awarded at 1:30pm and the ride begin at 2pm.

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U.P. Michigan Calendar

Jan. 2 & 3 Ironwood – Ironwood Snowmobile Olympus: Over 55 races starting at 9am each day. 906-3641845 or IronwoodSnowmobileOlympus. com. Heated concession area, hot food, re-

strooms, vendors.

Jan. 9 Ontonagon U.P. Championships Snow Drags: Racing after drivers meeting at 9:45 a.m.

Jan. 9 & 10 Ironwood - SISU Ski Fest.

XC Skiing and snowshoe races, ski expo. sisuskifest.com

I

Ski Brule is your snow resort

RON RIVER, MI -- High atop a mountain in Iron River, Michigan rests Ski Brule, a family-centered ski resort that attracts skiers from throughout the Midwest looking for excellent skiing conditions and affordable prices for a day, weekend or week on the slopes.

Ski Brule has made a promise that it will be the first to open and the last to close – a promise it can keep because of its location and snowmaking capabilities. Typically the ski season extends through April and averages 164 days.

variety of terrain with its new features welcomes everyone from those just starting to ride to pros.

When it’s time to kick back, the snow-tubing park on Whitewater Snow Tubing Park and Homestead Snow Tubing Park offers two types of experiences for all ages. The cross-country skiing and snowshoeing option offer 33 km of tracked and groomed trails along scenic Brule River.

The premier ski resort was voted the Visitor’s Choice Best Overall Resort in the Midwest in 2014, its sixth such OnTheSnow.com award since 2008. Adding to the popularity is the evening’s live music at Brule Saloon, karaoke and DJs. Don’t miss the USASA snowboard and ski competition Jan. 16 & 17 also.

First-timers ages 10 and up are invited to try the “Learn to Ride” snowboarding program, which is free. Ski Brule doesn’t stop at offering alpine ski and snowboarding lessons (private, semi-private, group) for adults and kids; the professional instructors can introduce you to snowshoe and cross-country skiing for a lifetime of outdoor enjoyment. Visit the rental center and they will fit you with the right size equipment.

The facility has five double chair lifts and six surface lifts servicing 17 trails, a half pipe, terrain parks and tubing in one location.

Nearly a third of the slopes are ranked more difficult while six are available for beginners. The longest of the 17 downhill trails runs up to a mile long and the mountain spreads a 500-foot vertical drop across 1,861 feet of elevation

There are a number of lodging options right at Ski Brule to maximize your skiing and snowboarding time. The Homestead Lodge is popular and has the built-in coziness of a family homestead dating back to 1891. One of Ski Brule’s food service options is sure to satisfy your hunger, whether breakfast, lunch, dinner or a snack.

The resort boasts night skiing during the week.

Ski Brule is located at 397 Brule Mountain Rd., Iron River. Call 800-362-7853 or visit skibrule.com for opening announcements and other details.

Snowboarders can explore 30 acres of terrain including Rapids Terrain Park, Snowshoe Terrain Park, and Bambi Rail Park. The

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Magic of Cross-Country Ski & Snowshoe Trails

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ron County offers miles of snowy terrain and XC and snowshoe trails that are groomed to perfection. Listed below are a number of crosscountry and snowshoe trails in the county. Some require a trail fee while others are by donation. But remember, it takes volunteers many hours, expensive equipment and fuel to maintain groomed trails. In addition to groomed trails, snowshoers can “bushwhack” almost any direction they wish with terrain ranging from nearly level to rolling landscapes.

Bewabic State Park Trails A 2.5 km groomed, classic style ski trail can be found at Bewabic State Park, 4 miles west of Crystal Falls on US-2. The trailhead is at the south end of the day use parking lot. Park headquarters contact number is 906875-3324.

Ge-Che Trails Skiers are welcome to test their skills on the Ge-Che Cross-Country Trail in the Ottawa National Forest, in southwest Iron County. Ge-che trails weave around three lakes: Hagerman, Brule and Ottawa. Named for Lake Ottawa, Ge-che in the Ojibwa language means “Big Lake.”

The Ge-Che trails total 10.8 km over gentle and rolling terrain and connect Lake Ottawa with Hagerman Lake across the road.

George Young Recreation Complex The George Young Recreation Cross Country Ski Center offers 6 km of groomed trails prepared for both classical and skating techniques. Follow the trails to explore Wagner Lake or wind throughout the wooded expanse of the complex. The varying terrain provides excellent skiing for all ability levels - from novice to expert. Trails are open from 10am to 4:30pm Thursday - Sunday (closed Monday - Wednesday). Rental equipment is available. 906-265-3401 • www. georgeyoung.com The Listening Inn B&B Open to the public as well as guests, the Bear Paw Trails at the Listening Inn Bed & Breakfast in Crystal Falls provide a nice workout with rolling terrain and beautiful scenery to enjoy along the way. A total of 14.5 km of groomed, classic-only trails wind over creeks and through hardwoods and virgin stands of pine. Loops range from beginner to intermediate.

The Tidd Tech grooming system makes for expertly groomed trails.

There are separate and well-marked snowshoe trails. Trail fee is $6 daily or a season pass for $60. XC ski and snowshoe rentals are available. Skiers are welcome to come in and warm up with a hot drink. 906-822-7738 • www.thelisteninginn.com Lake Mary Plains Pathway Lake Mary Plains Pathway features 9.6 miles of DNRE maintained trails. Three loops totaling 19 km are marked, groomed mostly for classical skiing. The trails will appeal to novice and intermediate crosscountry skiers. Lake Mary Plains Pathway is located in the Copper Country State Forest off M-69 in Mastodon Township, between Sagola and Crystal Falls. The starting point and parking area are located at the Glidden Lake State Forest Campground. Motorized vehicles are prohibited on the pathway. For more information, contact the DNRE office at 906-875-6622.

Ski Brule Ski Brule’s 32 km cross-country ski trail system winds through the wooded and rolling terrain of the Brule River Valley. The trail is flat groomed for ski skating and tracked for traditional Nordic skiing. The trail system follows the base of the mountain and the Brule River, offering ample scenic views to enjoy. Rentals and instruction are available.

900-362-7853 • www.skibrule.com Snowmobiling Scenic Trails Iron County boasts more than 260 miles of extensively groomed and well-marked snowmobile trails, drawing riders from throughout the region and beyond to enjoy scenic journeys that are a trademark of trails here. The wide-open trails traverse abandoned railroad beds, weave through varied wooded terrain and cross lakes for excellent sledding.

tended riding adventures. Gas stations, restaurants, pitstops and lodging, as well as sled repair shops are all readily available and eager to provide top customer satisfaction.

Snowfall totals are between 90 and 120 inches each season. The snowmobiling season officially opens Dec. 1 and closes March 31. The county trail system includes Amasa, Crystal Falls, Iron River, Sidnaw and Kenton areas.

The county’s two snowmobile clubs, The Iron Range Trail Club and the Chippewa Snow-Kats, welcome new members and invite visiting snowmobilers to attend their club activities, including trail rides. For more information, either write or call them at: Chippewa Snow-Kats The Iron Range Trail Club PO Box 124 11 W. Maple Crystal Falls, MI 49920 Iron River, MI 49935 906-265-7185 906-265-7152 The IRTC’s three Tucker groomers and drags are used to groom nearly 150 miles of trail at least twice a week during the season. The Chippewa Sno-Kats Snowmobile Club grooms and maintains about 100 miles of trail.

The groomers perform a vital job! Without the groomers and the people who operate them, a snowmobile trail can become a bumpy endurance test. The groomers travel about 6 mph, and most of the runs last 12 to 14 hours round trip. In the warmer months, they brush and mark trails, and repair bridges if needed.

Community organizations and chambers sponsor snowmobile derbies, winter festivals and races each season. In February, catch the exciting Mid American Championship Snowmobile Hill Climb.

For trail reports call 906-265-7152 or 888-879-4766, or go to www. snowtracks.com/michigan/ironcounty. For trail maps, stop by at the Iron County Chamber of Commerce office (or call 888-TRY-IRON). They are also available at most gas stations and many local businesses. Or contact the South Central UP Snowmobile Council at osieger@fast-air.net.

The Rush at Ski Hills Ski Brule Ski Brule has a reputation of offering one of the longest downhill skiing seasons anywhere, each year making good on their promise -- “First to open, last to close.” Aided by their modern snowmaking system, Ski Brule’s expertly trained staff is committed to making the mountain’s skiing conditions perfect. In the right settings, they can cover a hill with three feet of snow in just 24 hours!

The mountain tops out at 1,860 feet with a vertical drop of 500 feet and the base at 1,360 feet. The ski facility offers 11 chair lifts, 5 double chairs and 6 surface lifts, 150 acres of skiable terrain, runs up to 1 mile in length and three terrain parks. Try the rainbow box, hitching post, cannon box, angled boxes, rails and more featured at Bambi Rail Park, Snowshoe Terrain Park and Rapids Terrain Park.

Caspian Hill Are you interested in skiing but not ready for a mountain? The Caspian Ski Hill just might be for you! The Caspian Ski Hill’s gentle slopes and affordable ticket prices make it accessible to everyone. The lodge is a great place to warm up, make friends and grab a bite to eat. The Caspian Ski Hill is located just east of the intersection of M-189 and Co. Rd. 424.

Crystella Ski Hill Crystella Hill is Crystal Fall’s own little giant, actively supported by the Crystella Recreational Association. Take the kids out for some winter fun, including skiing, sledding, skating, snowboarding and jumps. The facility offers two tow rope lifts to pull you too the top of the “little” and “big” hills. Warm up and catch a bite to eat inside the lodge.

Iron County not only serves as a hub for local trails, but gives added meaning to snowmobile paradise. Snowmobilers can tap into the vast network of trails in the Upper Peninsula and northern Wisconsin for ex-

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