The North American Vasa: A Northern Michigan Tradition

Locals know, if you want to make it through winter, you've got to do something you love and you have to have something you're excited about. For hundreds of outdoor enthusiasts all over Northern Michigan, both of those requirements come together into one big weekend: the North American Vasa! 

The Vasa is an annual tradition that takes place on the Vasa Pathways on Traverse City's East Side. With the start/finish at Timber Ridge, skiers of all ages take off for a variety of events under the shadows of towering pines and hardwoods. Rolling hills, big fields, and tough conditions can make the event a challenge for anyone, but a treat for all. 

Those trails are maintained from December 1 to March 1 with near-daily grooming efforts from Traverse Area Recreational Trails and Northern Michigan Mountain Bike Association. That's right, the fat bikers get their day, too; NMMBA's Winter Sports Singletrack gets its day in the sun as the course for wide-tires and smiling faces after the ski races wrap up. 

It's a unique celebration of winter sports and the great outdoors, and it's one that we love taking a part of and checking out each season. This year, the race weekend comes on February 10 and 11, with a number of distances and disciplines to choose from. 

This year, the region has enjoyed a long and snowy winter, making it easier for skiers and fat bikers to prepare for what is considered the Super Bowl of local winter athletics. The North American Vasa is another tradition we're proud of as folks who make the most of all weather, year-round. 

If you'd like to learn more about the 2018 North American Vasa, head here. 

Love winter sports? Live close to the trails! Use our search tools to find a listing that puts the Vasa 25km and the Winter Sports Singletrack in your backyard! 

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