Submitted by Keweenaw Nordic Ski Club Treasurer John Diebel
Barnelopet has introduced generations of copper country skiers to the sport. The 18th annual Barnelopet this weekend also reintroduces the event to the Swedetown Gorge. Hancock Trails Club treasurer John Diebel says the 6-kilometer route, geared toward teens and older kids, traverses one of his favorite sections of the Maasto Hiihto Trails.
Beautiful geologically, there’s some interesting slate down there. It’s a rock-filled stream and there are some waterfalls in there. So it’s just a great place to ski. After the Father’s Day flood, the trails down there were somewhat decimated, but they were restored the summer before this last. And last year was the first year in five years we were able to hold the six-k route going down there. Which makes a nice loop going out from the Hancock driving parking and returning to the Hancock Drive part near the gorge. – John Diebel, Treasurer, Hancock Trails Club
Over the years the community excitedly introduces their children to a hobby that has brought countless hours and miles of enjoyment. From young ones going skiing for the first time to the Copper Country ski tigers many families mark the event on the calendar.
Some of those are with the Copper Country Ski Tigers group and we’re going to have a great route for the older skiers. But most of the participation is from some of the younger children that are out there. Which is great, it’s a great photo op for the event. And I would almost encourage people just to spectate it the beginning and end because it’s a lot of fun for the young kids out there with their parents. We always look for bell ringers too they have some cowbells to help encourage younger skiers to get over the finish line. – John Diebel, Treasurer, Hancock Trails Club
Diebel adds that individuals interested in supporting the Barnelopet should contact race director Wayne Stordahl to learn about volunteer opportunities. Parents interested in renting skis for their child(ren) should also contact Stordahl for more information. The 18th Annual Barnelopet is sponsored by the Keweenaw Cross Country Ski Fund and the Portage Health Auxiliary.
Find more details for the 18th annual Barnelopet at the Maestro Hiihto trails on February 9th here.
All ages line up to race beginning at 2 pm. First out are the 6K racers, and at intervals after that, 4K, 2K, then 1K. Questions: Wayne Stordahl (906) 482-0292
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