North American Vasa is on as Trail Conditions reach peak

Thu, Feb  5, 2026 - By Libby Schnepf

TRAVERSE CITY, MI — The 50th Annual North American Vasa Festival of Races, presented by TVC, is on, and organizers report trail conditions are shaping up for race weekend, February 14–15, 2026, at Timber Ridge Resort in Traverse City, MI. Registration will close Wednesday, February 11, at 6:00 PM, and skiers and riders are encouraged to sign up now.

After past years marked by pandemic disruptions and weather-related cancellations, the courses on the Vasa Pathway are currently in premier condition for both cross-country ski and fatbike racing. Organizers say conditions are some of the best they’ve seen in recent seasons.

“This is the winter we’ve been waiting for,” said Race Directors Ken Dawson and Cliff Onthank. “The trail is in great shape, the snow is here, and we’re excited to welcome racers back for a true Vasa weekend.”

The 50th anniversary celebration brings back the iconic 50-kilometer classic and freestyle races, honoring the event’s roots while offering a full slate of race options for all abilities. Additional events include the 27K and 12K freestyle, 15K classic, 6K Tour, 25K Fatbike Race, Junior Vasa, high school races, Adaptive Ski, and the Bigfoot Community Relay, sponsored by Cross Country Ski Headquarters.

The North American Vasa is one of the Midwest’s premier winter endurance events, drawing hundreds of participants and spectators each year and serving as a cornerstone of Traverse City’s winter recreation culture.

Registration is now open and closes on February 11 at 6:00 PM. No race-day registration will be available, with the exception of the Bigfoot Community Relay & Junior Vasa. Full race details and registration information can be found at www.vasa.org

Call for Volunteers

The North American Vasa is also seeking volunteers to help make race weekend possible. Interested community members can sign up to volunteer at https://www.vasa.org/Race/NorthAmericanVasaFestivalofRaces/Page/Volunteer.

TV Interview

See the interview with race directors Ken Dawson and Cliff Onthank!