EXIT Northern Shores Celebrates The 41st North American Vasa

For the 41st year, the North American Vasa brings skiers and outdoor enthusiasts from all over the world to Northern Michigan. What a race, and what a place!

It's really no wonder that our cities, towns and beautiful natural landscapes have been drawing Nordic skiers to the woods and trails of the Vasa Pathways for over four decades. Between little Williamsburg and Traverse City, the Vasa trail system is a world-class setting for any outdoor activity, and on the second weekend in February, it becomes a mecca of skiing.

The race includes multiple distances, ranging from 12km to 48km, testing all sorts of abilities. Professional skiers from Europe and Asia toe the line just ahead of local legends and the weekend warrior, with a shared sense of adventure tying everyone together. A single day isn't enough, with all skate races taking place on Saturday and many skiers back in action on Sunday for the classic events. It's incredible to think that the race once started near the Cherry Capital Airport, with skiers handed a rather rough map and pointed in the general direction of Williamsburg as their compass. Now, the race is run with dozens of volunteers, weeks of specific grooming and state-of-the-art timing equipment to keep track of hundreds of skiers and fat bikers! 

Whether it's preparing for the Vasa or mountain biking in the summer, it's not unusual for families to ask us specifically for homes near the trails. Properties in Williamsburg and Kalkaska are ideal, and there are some beautiful homes tucked into the woods just a short ways from the expansive trail system that winds through acre after acre of forest. Even homes near the iconic Grand Traverse Resort offer a lightning-quick trip to the trails, including this ideally-placed home on Arrowhead Circle. Properties between Kalkaska and Williamsburg are especially nice for families looking to be just an extra step removed from higher traffic areas but still a short commute to festivals, shopping and other urban highlights. 

As many skiers flock to the Vasa this year, you can be sure the majority of the athletes in action this weekend will be locals that absolutely love calling our area home. With so many exciting events, trendy towns and quiet, natural settings, there's no better place to be.